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Poultry
Demand for breasts has begun to decline, and prices may have reached a plateau. It’s still difficult to find wings in the market. There is a high demand for tenders, yet they are still the hardest to locate offering. The desire for dark meat is still high. The majority of whole birds are balanced.
Beef
The market has slowed as April approaches, and packers are still attempting to hold back harvest. Overall, ribs stay constant, but top butts and strips get progressively higher. It seems that end cuts are at their limit. Though the current price support for grinds is beginning to show cracks, the limited harvest still supports thin meats.
Pork
B/I Butts are rising. Since there has been some downturn in the boneless industry, boneless butt sales are declining. The market for ribs is predicted to continue rising since supply is anticipated to become more limited throughout the warmer months. As retail demand for loins rises, loin prices are also rising. Bellies are still getting smaller.
The Sea
Seafood
The Pacific Halibut season has begun, and while whole fish prices are now higher, it is anticipated that they will decrease over the next few weeks. The supply of lobster in the North Atlantic is still decreasing, and prices are rising. Due to increased supply, warm water lobster prices have remained stable and have not grown as anticipated.
Produce
As a result of adverse weather conditions, the transition of seasonal commodities, and the recent Easter holiday observance, there has been a decrease in production across different commodities. Consequently, there has been an increase in the overall market prices of specific commodities. The transition from Yuma to Huron/Salinas for carton commodities is ongoing in California and Arizona. Processed items are scheduled to begin in Salinas either on the 15th or the 21st, depending on the shipper.
Kitchen Sink
Dairy
The markets for shell eggs are all flat, and demand is declining. Northwest and California markets remain stagnant. A farm in Texas and Michigan has tested positive for HPAI, and the initial estimate of loss is 1.9 million birds, including pullets. Based on the need for exports, the Block & Barrel is getting smaller. Butter continues to rise in demand. It’s desirable to have unsalted butter.
Grain
In its planting intentions report, the USDA declared a decrease in corn acres and an increase in bean acres. The market rebounded for both beans and corn. Trade in soybean oil was erratic, but overall the week witnessed little change in canola. Palm is still on the rise.
