Bovine slaughter figures break record again

In week 12, the number of cattle slaughtered in the Netherlands rose to a level never achieved before. Dutch slaughterhouses processed a total of 18.541 cattle. It is striking that the previous record, which was achieved in week 8, has been largely surpassed. Compared to the previous record, a gap of almost 1.000 slaughters has been created. The LU scheme, from the Phosphate Reduction Plan, is clearly visible in the slaughter figures these weeks, given the gap with the five-year average.  

Cutting maize shifts to the background 
It is quiet at the feed market, it remains quiet and it can become much quieter when the first cut of grass comes from the field. This is the thinking among forage traders. The trade in silage maize is feeling the consequences of the good grass harvest in 2016. As a result, rations are often filled with their own grass and silage maize is shifting more into the background. Economical trade is done between 55 and 60 euros per tonne, depending on region and quality.

The straw trade is a bit more attractive, although it is certainly not booming. The price has been stable for weeks at 110 euros for wheat straw. It is expected that the current stock, at this price level, will be sold out. When new supplies arrive from France at the end of the summer, the market may get a new boost.

The trade in potato chips is also not entirely disappointing. Trade is established at around 45 euros per tonne and the product is delivered free of charge.