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Abstract
Several physical quality characteristics are important in pricing feeder
pigs. This study identifies and estimates the discounts associated with
various characteristics. Weight, weight squared, lot size, lot size squared,
weight-lot size interactions, health, and lot uniformity were the most
important physical traits affecting feeder pig price differentials. In
addition, time of sale, changes in expected finished hog prices, and
fluctuations in expected feed costs of finishing the pigs also had significant
impacts on feeder pig prices.