The past few weeks have seen merchants starting to raise feed prices right across the country. While overall meal usage is lower as we move towards the summer months, the increase is affecting the rising costs of a slow turnout to grass in much of the country.
The past few weeks have seen merchants starting to raise feed prices right across the country.
While overall meal usage is lower as we move towards the summer months, the increase is affecting the rising costs of a slow turnout to grass in much of the country.
The start of price increases occurred a few weeks ago and has slowly spread throughout different regions.
Highest prices
The highest prices are reported to be in the west and northwest of the country, with the south and southwest seeing the lower end of prices.
That said, for farmers buying nuts over coarse rations, they will be paying premium prices, with many dairy nuts now well over the €300/t mark.
The main range of prices quoted for 18% dairy nuts is from €300 to €310/t, although there are still some prices just shy of €300/t in the south.
Meanwhile, 21% dairy nuts are being priced from €320 to €340/t, with coarse rations running about €15 to €20/t less than this.
Those sourcing coarse rations are paying about €10 to €15/t less than those buying nuts.
Credit history
While loyalty is important, so too is credit history. It is important to shop around to secure the best price. And bargain with an upfront payment also.
A similar trend is evident for farmers buying weanling crunch, with the east and south of the country seeing slightly lower prices.
Blends at 16% are being quoted from €290 to €300/t, with some lower prices than these in certain areas.
Again, those buying nuts are paying about €10 to €15/t more and in some cases up to €20/t more.
Finisher ration
Prices for a basic 14% finisher ration are ranging mainly from €250 to €290/t for a coarse ration and up to €315/t for nuts at the upper end.
Coarse sheep rations are being quoted at €295 to €310/t for an 18% ration.
A higher protein percentage of 20% is coming in at €320 to €330/t.
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