According to today’s USDA Hogs and Pigs report, the total swine inventory on 1 September was 77.7 million head, 103 percent of last year and of the 1 June inventory.  

The numbers announced today overall were neutral to slightly bearish compared to the industry trade guesses prior to the report. 

Sows farrowed in the June-August quarter were 3.18 million, exactly at the number reported as producers’ intentions in the last report. Farrowing was at 99 percent of last year, meaning the expansion came through efficiency; indeed, pigs saved per litter were 11.11, compared to 10.72 last year.    Like last quarter, this was another record setting report. New records include:  • 1 September inv...