Whole broiler/fryer prices are trending weak to lower in the Midwest,
steady elsewhere. Offerings are moderate to heavy for current trade
needs. Retail and food service demand is light to good, mostly light
to moderate approaching the weekend. Floor stocks are balanced to short.
Market activity is slow to moderate with most interest on heavier sizes.
In the parts structure, movement is moderate to good for late week
business. Prices are trending firm to higher for wings, steady to firm
for breasts cuts and generally steady for the balance of parts. Supplies
of wings are tight and heavily sought after. Breast cuts are light to
moderate and clearing well. Other parts are at least sufficient.
Market activity for parts is moderate to active. In production areas,
live supplies are moderate; weights are mixed, but reported as mostly
desirable.
According to the National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS)
for the week ending January 05, 2013 broiler egg sets were up 4,
and chick placements were down 1% when compared to a year ago. Based
on the preliminary chick placements, the number of fryers available
for marketing during the week ending 15-Feb-2013 is estimated at 148.5
million head, this compares to 150.0 million head a week earlier and
153.0 million head a year ago.
Source: USDA