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OKLAHOMA CITY —(USDA)— Slaughter cattle across the country sold $3 higher live last week, $3.50-4 higher dressed. Packer demand was good and the bulk of showlists cleared by Wednesday. Since weather-related problems for the Northeast let up two weeks ago, the live market has moved up $6 as normal beef shipments to the area have resumed. News that Mexico has lifted the ban on U.S. boneless beef under 30 months of age alleviated some of the anxiety over light kills versus substantial on-feed numbers. Never-theless, feedlots remain current in their marketings. Boxed beef values Friday morning averaged $137.32, up $6.45 from the previous Friday. Sales of slaughter cattle on a national basis for negotiated cash trades were substantial at 233,400 head through Friday morning. The previous week's full count was large at 285,000 head. High Plains direct trade on 35-65 percent Choice steers and heifers weighing 900-1400 pounds was $82-86.50, weighted average $84.97. Midwest direct prices on 35-80 percent Choice steers and heifers of 900-1400 pounds were $83-86.50, weighted average $85.25, dressed 550-950 pounds $132-138, weighted average $135.25. Slaughter cows and bulls were $1-2 lower except in Alabama, which was steady. The cutter cow carcass cutout value closed Thursday at $98.45, down 82 cents from the previous Friday. Colorado breakers weighing 1100-1600 pounds brought $44.50-47, boners 1100-1500 pounds $45-48.50, lean 1050-1400 pounds $46.50-49, and bulls 1500-2200 pounds $61-64.50. Oklahoma breakers were $46-49.50, boners $49.50-51, lean $47.50-49.50, and bulls $61-64. Alabama breakers were $42-47, boners $44-47, lean $38-42, and bulls $53-57. |
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