Corn Price Surge Sends Swine Finishing Feed Costs Soaring

A recent surge in corn prices has led to increased feed costs for swine finishing operations. According to data from the USDA-NASS, corn futures prices have risen to approximately $5.18 per bushel as of August 2026, up from $4.40 at the start of the year. Using the iFarm price distribution tool, analysts project that there is a 25% chance that corn prices will be above $5.70 per bushel by December 2026.

The impact of higher corn prices on swine finishing feed costs is significant. A regression analysis found that each 0.10 per bushel increase in corn prices results in a $0.43 increase in feed cost per cwt. For example, if soybean meal price remains at its current level of $359 per ton, a corn price of $5.75 would result in a feed cost per cwt. of approximately $41.60.

The projections for 2027 are even more concerning, with average feed costs expected to increase by around 10% compared to 2026. However, the range of possible outcomes is significant, with potential increases ranging from 5% to 15%, depending on corn price assumptions.