Lactose - Central and West
MD_DA770

     Lactose - Central and Western U.S.

     Report 39 - Released on September 24, 2020

     The lactose price range expanded slightly, but the mostly price series remained unchanged.
     The current market tone for lactose is more unsettled as compared to several months ago.
     Some manufacturers report being highly committed through the end of the year, but contacts
     say offers have become more available. Lactose production is steady to higher. Demand is
     mixed. Lactose sellers report some customers are eager to get Q4 coverage and willing to
     take immediate shipments. Meanwhile, other buyers are reexamining contract offers that have
     not been finalized. Some buyers suggest they have an oversupply of lactose from Q2 and Q3
     purchases. Industry contacts relay end users are cautious on the production and marketing of
     finished goods and any further lactose purchases. For example, contacts say a few candy
     producers are limiting the amounts of packaging that include Halloween designations to avoid
     having to sell on clearance following the holiday. This may hamper lactose sales later in
     the year, unless demand for lactose and related end products reenergize through the next few
     months.


     Prices for: Central and Western U.S., Spot Sales And Up to 3 Month Contracts, F.O.B.,
     Conventional, and Edible Lactose
     Price Range - Non Pharmaceutical; $/LB:                .3900 - .6400
     Mostly Range - Non Pharmaceutical; $/LB:               .4600 - .5500


     Information for the period September 21 - 25, 2020, issued weekly

     Published by:
     Dairy Market News - Madison, WI
     MIKE BANDLI, (608)422-8592
     Email: mike.bandli@usda.gov

     Additional Dairy Market News Information:
     Dairy Market News (DMN) by Phone: (608)422-8602
     DMN Website: https://www.ams.usda.gov/market-news/dairy
     DMN MARS (My Market News): https://mymarketnews.ams.usda.gov