Spot quotes also reflected the more or less static nature of the Deadweight Adjusted Pig Price, which is virtually unchanged at 108.65p, contrary to earlier predictions of sharper falls.

The relative strength of the DAPP, which has been influenced to some extent by the rising feed price element in cost of production related contracts, has encouraged sellers to market as many contract pigs as they can to ease the pressure on spot supplies.

The main reason for rather indifferent demand appears to be a rising flow of imports and reports of falling pig prices in many key EU countries.

Dutch, German, Belgium, French and Spanish prices all lost up to 6p/kg in value in the last week with the EU mainland average equivalent to 93.7p compared with 107p/kg in mid August.

Most spot bacon trades were in the 107 – 109p range with lighter cutters worth only 2 – 4p more than this.

Source: FWi