Weekly National Molasses Report

SPRINGFIELD - Jan 20/04 - SNS -- The USDA released its latest weekly national report covering the sugarcane molasses market in that country. The report covers both cane blackstrap and feed grade merchandise

National Molasses Report

Sugarcane molasses prices are unchanged. Demand was moderate to good with 
moderate to heavy offerings of new crop molasses. Cooler weather in much 
of the country continued to strengthen demand. Lower cattle placements in the 
aftermath of the BSE case pressured the molasses market in some areas. Higher 
ocean freight rates have increased the cost of importing products in to the U.S.
The Florida grind season is well underway. Reports indicate that the current crop 
could be near record levels. 

Feed Molasses (minimum 79.5 brix, 43% sugars, except where noted) offers only 
(premiums amd discounts to apply) and tank car or truck, fob terminal, prompt 
delivery, dollars/ton, 1/

Type and Market Area       As of Noon:      Last Week         Last Year
                           01/20/2004       01/12/2004        01/21/2003
Cane Blackstrap- *Offers only (premiums and discounts to apply)*   
                                                      
 New Orleans               52.50-55.00      52.50-55.00       60.00
                           mostly 52.50     mostly 52.50
 Houston                   60.00            60.00             65.00
 South Florida             62.50            62.50             67.50

1/ Per ton prices are based on 171 gallons for blackstrap molasses. To
compute cents per gallon prices on cane molasses divide dollars per ton by
171 gallons ($ per ton divided by 171 gallons = cents per gallon). Ton- 
2,000 lbs; Gallon= U.S. gallon.

***Effective 9/15/03 there were some changes to National Molasses Market 
Report. Due to market transparency issues, prices at several points have 
been discontinued on a weekly basis. As of today the remaining pricing 
points are New Orleans, Houston and South Florida. Other points will be 
reported when there is market activity.***

Source:  USDA-IL Dept of Ag Market News Springfield, IL 217-782-4925 

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STAT News Service

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