“If we step back and look at what that means for farmland, we're taking our energy production system from highly centralized production facilities and we have to distribute it,” says David Muth.
Hog production returned to profitability in 2011, but producers remain cautious about the future.
Rise in index positive for meat demand.
That's good news for protein producers, since foodservice sales represent a large portion of beef, pork and poultry purchases.
Outside markets supportive for commodity buying to start new year.
United States inventory of all hogs and pigs on December 1, 2011 was 65.9 million head.
Report garnered muted immediate reaction from the market.
Report expected to show All Hogs & Pigs at 101.3% of year-ago.
Showed pork and beef stocks above expectations.
USDA is predicting 2012 pork imports and exports will be close to this year’s level.
After years of struggling to earn a profit, pork producers could find themselves back in the black, says a Purdue Extension economist.
2011 turning out a banner year for pork and beef exports.
October was another excellent month for U.S. pork and beef exports.
Demand strength is expected to carry into 2012 in the face of tight cattle supplies.
Models split as to strength of episode this winter.
Year-to-date pork production up 1.1% from year-ago, beef production down 0.3%.
Restaurant operators optimistic about growth in the months ahead.
Says Districts reported mostly favorable ag conditions.
Consumers' attitude toward economy, job market improve.
Report deemed positive for market.
Pork profits in 2012 are currently forecast to be near $17 per head, the highest since 2006.
USTR says they are considering appealing the panel's decision.
The World Trade Organization sides with Canada and Mexico in a complaint against the U.S. mandatory country of origin labeling.
Says Commission should take immediate action and punish any wrongdoing.
The food price index rose from last month, but the drop in energy was more than offsetting.
But a survey finds those who would pay more would only be willing to pay 1% to 5% more.
The dollar amount of pork and beef shipped overseas is set to make a new record.
Highlights key global growing areas.
Projects record 2011 cereals crop.
The normal season pattern is for a 15% drop in pork cutout from early September to late October.
This is good news for red meat demand as restaurant owners are more optimistic.
A repeating pattern is forming to bring more active weather.
Weights still below year-ago, but cattle weights narrowing the gap.
One-category improvement in some Midwest areas.
Slips back to a level last seen during the 2008-2009 recession.
Signals pork demand wasn't as strong as expected, or supplies were higher.
Dressed cattle weights still 10 lbs. lighter than year-ago; hog weights down 3 lbs. from year-ago.
President Obama signs the Free Trade Agreements approved by Congress last week, and all that's left is implementation.
Legislation would prevent the EPA and the courts from imposing Superfund regulation on U.S. agriculture.
Stronger hog prices and lower feed costs have put the pork outlook back into the black for the coming year.
Export demand remains a bright spot for cattle and hog markets.
Sees slight expansion in cattle herd, hog herd holding steady.
The pending free trade agreements with Colombia, Panama and South Korea represent nearly $2.5 billion in new agriculture exports.
Report summary.
For 2011, beef and broiler production forecasts are reduced, but pork and turkey production is increased.
USDA offers a 30-day extension on the comment period for the proposed rule on animal disease traceability.
Pork imports expected to rise 8% in 2012 due to continued strong demand.
Finally pork producers have some positive news that has increased optimism for greater profitability in the coming year.
These free trade agreements represent nearly $2.5 billion in new agriculture exports.
As corn futures plunged after USDA reported surprisingly high stocks, analysts wondered what livestock and poultry have been eating in place of corn.
Softening of index not good news for meat demand.
