Milk supplies are tight in the East; cheese markets are up & down; NFDM prices are firm
Strong Class I demand in the East has reduced manufacturing milk supplies. The cheese market has had ups and downs, but remained generally steady over the past six weeks.
Here are highlights from the USDA's Dairy Market Trends for the week of Sept. 10 to 14. Download the complete report.
FLUID MILK. Strong Class I demand in the East has reduced manufacturing milk supplies. Along with reduced milk production levels this has increased demand for milk and components from other parts of the country. Florida milk production is nearing seasonal lows and imports totaled 96 loads this week. The Southeastern region also imported 47 loads this week to fill needs. Milk supplies in the Central region are adequate for most needs with some milk being moved out of the region at premium prices. California milk supplies are tight compared to year ago levels with processors finding it difficult to satisfy all of their needs. Southwestern fluid levels are being adversely affected by heat and monsoonal conditions.