February 15, 2013
US weather conditions may affect pork profitability
The influence of this year's weather conditions on grain crop will determine the profitability of pork producers, according to an agricultural economist with the University of Missouri, US.
US hog prices in 2012 were the second highest on record but feed prices were the most expensive ever due to the US drought resulting in average losses of US$12 per hog slaughtered.
Dr. Ron Plain, an agricultural economics professor with the University of Missouri, says most hog producers are counting on better crop production this summer and a drop in corn and soy meal prices.
Dr. Plain says hog prices are expected to be higher this year than last.
He notes total meat supplies are down in response to the high feed costs.
