What are market options in Mississippi?

Changes in the pork markets in Mississippi over the last several years:

Feeder Pigs
Previously, feeder pig associations provided a market in several locations throughout the state for co-mingled feeder pigs. Changes in the demand for these pigs resulted in the closure of all of the feeder pig association sales.

Farm to farm sales are still an option for some producers. This is normally a verbal agreement between the feeder pig producer and a pig finisher.

Local Livestock Auction barns provide a market for pigs in various locations throughout the state. These markets are variable and may not provide a long-term demand for pigs.

Early Wean (pigs less than 21 days of age) marketing contracts. There are a few marketing agreements offered to pork producers in Mississippi. Each of these have different requirements and obligations. A review of three separate marketing agreements for early-weaned pigs is being conducted at this time.

Finishing Pigs
There is a large pork processor located in West Point, Mississippi. Pigs can be sold on a live weight basis or on a carcass merit basis.

Throughout the state, there are several custom meat processors that purchase finished pigs. Depending upon your location and volume of production, these may be a good market.

For small-scale production, local selling of pigs for home consumption provides a means of marketing finished pigs.

Local Livestock Auctions in various areas of the state sell finished pigs on a weekly basis.