MD_DA751 Casein - National Casein Report for U.S. Imports Report 7 - Released on February 18, 2021 For both acid casein and rennet casein the low range prices increased. Prices were steady at the tops of the ranges. Rennet casein manufacturers in Western Europe are dealing with stalled seasonal milk production increases due to extremely harsh weather. Additionally, stocks on hand remain tight as order delivery slipped behind at the end of 2020 and that hole is not quite filled yet, putting price pressure on new deals. Oceania pricing reflects declining milk production as the season moves along. A related factor is that heavy contracting for current production leaves very little available for spot market buyers, if they can even find any acid casein. Both acid casein and rennet casein markets are expected to remain firm in the weeks ahead. In Western Europe, firming is anticipated into Q3 of 2021. Prices for: Spot Sales And Up to 3 Month Contracts, Free on Board - Warehouse, Non- Restricted, All Mesh Sizes, Conventional, and Edible Casein Acid; Price Range - $/LB: 3.6500-3.9500 Rennet; Price Range - $/LB: 3.6150-3.6875 Information for the period February 15 - 19, 2021, issued weekly Published by: Dairy Market News - Madison, WI Eric Graf, 608.422.8590 Email: Eric.Graf@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