Prepared and written by Jeff Swenson, DATCP Livestock and Meat Specialist. The Market Update draws information from several sources, including trade publications, radio broadcasts, agricultural news services, individuals involved in the industry as well as USDA NASS and AMS reports.
The national base carcass price for hogs was $82.12 last week – an increase of $1.58. The pork cutout value was $1.72 higher, averaging $94.40. Last week’s federally inspected harvest total was estimated at 2.484 million, 139,000 fewer than the previous week and 10,000 more than a year ago. Pork production is expected to exceed last year during the winter months but decrease during the second half of 2026. According to the USDA Monthly Slaughter report, both harvest and pork production were 1% lower than 2024. The average dressed weight for market hogs averaged 213 pounds last year, compared to 212 in 2024. Forty-pound feeder pigs averaged $117.33/head last week, up from $108.29 the previous week. Early weaned pigs were $3.79 higher, averaging $85.82.
