At the Chicago Mercantile Exchange class III milk futures closed mixed Tuesday, somewhat supported by declining global prices. Class III milk markets lost a penny in August while September through December was 1-4 cents higher. First half 2019 markets fell 1-3 cents per cwt. Class IV milk ranged from 2 cents lower to 5 cents higher.
CME spot product markets on Tuesday had mixed results. Cheddar barrels were much softer as 12 loads moved hands and the market set back 7 and ¼ cents to $1.57 cents per lb. Blocks added ¾ cents settling out at $1.61 and ¾ cents following three trades, three uncovered bids and three offers. Butter lost the most as it declined 8.5% to 1.94 and ¼ cents per lb. Cheddar fell 4.9% to $1.58. Skim milk powder was down 1.3% to 88 and ½ cents per lb. while whole milk powder softened 2.1% to $1.30 and ¾ cents.
