Fewer issues were seen at pork plants last week as the reduced allocation that some processors planned bore fruit, according to Thames Valley Cambac.
COVID-19 was, however, still a major problem for some plants, with boning and cutting staff particularly affected, TVC said in its latest weekly market update.
Demand was reported as being steady and exports to China still denied at some plants and slaughter numbers remained high with average weights near to record levels for many producers.
“However, a glimmer of hope was given with odd Saturday kills being planned, and this may help to eat into the backlog,” TVC said.
Prices eased again, partly due to another large fall in the SPP, with the SPP report also showing the lowest number of standard pigs in the sample since May 2020. The closure of the major Brechin in Scotland plant could be one reason, and a larger number of outdoor born pigs being processed another, TVC suggested.
“The fresh meat market was pretty dire with a collapse in sales reported by many – possibly challenged by cheap imports chasing a limited market. The cull sow market was similar in price and volume terms,” the report added.
European prices were similar, but price quotes in sterling were compromised by a weaker Euro that ended the week down 0.85p at 87.53p.
Both store and weaner supplies were uncharacteristically tighter this week, with some signs that the poor winter weather has badly affected some outdoor units. Placements were still disrupted however, by the continued turmoil in the slaughter market. There was a weighted average 30kg store pig price announced by AHDB quoted at £38.71.
European Prices (p/kg.dwt) w/c 07/02/21 Movement on last week
European Av. 113.53 – 0.64
UK Tribune Spot Bacon 140.19 – 1.12
Belgium 85.26 + 0.33
Denmark 111.83 – 1.01
France 126.16 – 1.22
Germany 104.17 – 1.01
Ireland 136.73 – 1.32
Holland 103.56 – 1.00
Spain 126.98 + 0.72
(Ref Weekly Tribune)