MD_DA840 DA MD DA840 Cheese - West MADISON, WI. June 12, 2013 (REPORT 24) WEST CHEESE Wholesale cheese prices were mixed in the West. Barrel prices are higher and wholesale block prices moved lower. Barrels are thought to be in tighter supply as processors look to acquire additional inventories. Barrels are currently selling at a premium to blocks. Cheese production continues strong with good export sales helping to move some additional product. Domestic demand is mostly steady. Advertised U.S. cheese prices as reported in the National Dairy Retail Report showed prices were unevenly mixed compared to two weeks ago. Featuring of cheese for the two week period was increased in most categories except for the 2 lb. block package. The weighted average price for the most heavily advertised, 8 oz. shred package, was 7 cents higher compared to two weeks ago at $2.32 per package, and 8 cents lower than last year's price of $2.40. In the West, the weighted average price ranged from $4.98-7.99 per package for the 2 pound block package. Cheese prices at the CME Group on Wednesday closed with barrels unchanged at $1.7725. Blocks closed $.0175 lower, closing at $1.7325. Barrel trading has been light with two loads sold by midweek and blocks traded light to moderate with eight loads sold by Wednesday. Blocks and barrels at midweek are trading in opposite directions with few loads of barrels being offered. Blocks are lower this week and barrels are firming. WHOLESALE SELLING PRICES: DELIVERED, DOLLARS PER POUND (1000 - 5000 POUNDS MIXED LOTS) Process 5# Loaf : 1.8525-2.1100 Cheddar 40# Block : 1.8500-2.2025 Cheddar 10# Cuts : 2.0300-2.2500 Monterey Jack 10# : 2.0400-2.2000 Grade A Swiss Cuts 6 - 9# : 3.0450-3.4750 1500C Robert.Hunter@ams.usda.gov 608.278.4158