For the 180 pounds and over category, there were 13.059 million head, up 7.5% from a year ago.

Cool weather has certainly been one factor contributing to the increased weight but poor exports are likely the main factor.

Pork prices at retail in the latest reports indicate that pork prices were higher year-over-year led by bacon prices at the highest price at retail since October of 2017.

The export decline of 93 million pounds was led by a drop of 133 million pounds (20.8%) in shipments to Mexico. South Korea, Japan, Hong Kong and China also cut their purchases by more than 10 million pounds each.

January-April pork exports were 6% below last year’s pace in volume (817,025 metric tons) and were down 12% in value to just over $2 billion.

First quarter pork volume to Mexico was down 13% year-over-year to 177,420 metric tons, while value declined 29% to $261.9 million.

Index to provide transparent price reference for fresh pork bellies used to make bacon.

First quarter exports were 6% below last year’s pace in volume (600,268 mt) and down 14% in value ($1.47 billion).

You have options to protect your future revenue whether you are a hog producer, or your livelihood depends on the pork market.

The Hogs and Pigs Report did confirm that we are going to have plenty of pigs the rest of this year and into 2020. It did not point to some irrational growth rate that is going to flood us with pigs in the future.