UK pigmeat prices rose sharply in February due to dropping slaughter numbers that reached record lows in January and high EU mainland values, with average spot baconers at 108p/kg, about 12p ahead of EU prices. Most UK abattoirs are also operating below capacity and closures and rationalisation measures are in view.

Abattoirs buying large numbers of spot pigs are the most exposed and cull sow prices are trading at post foot-and-mouth disease highs. Prices have, however, cooled off in recent days and falling European prices are expected to feed through to the cull sow market.