January sees huge dip in pig slaugherings, as EU numbers also decline

Estimated GB pig slaughter was significantly down in January, compared with average volumes for the month, as pig supplies tighten significantly on the back of last year’s herd contraction. For the four weeks ending 28 Jan throughputs totalled 629,500 head, a decline of 22,300 head compared with the previous four weeks. Weekly throughputs averaged at 157,400 head, significantly lower than the numbers seen a year ago (-12,900 head) and the 5-year average (-17,200 head). Indeed, weekly throughputs for January are among the lowest full week throughput figures seen for a very long time – you have go back ti 2011 for lower full-week January figures.This supports wider industry commentary that the supply of finished pigs is beginning to run tight, according to AHDB analyst Freya Shuttleworth. Average carcase weights increased in January compared to December, with the SPP sample averaging 89.31kg for the four weeks ending Jan 28, up almost 2kg on the month, with the APP sample up 1.5kg ...