Navigating the Trump Tariff Turbulence: A Comprehensive Timeline

US President Donald Trump and his administration have paused reciprocal tariffs on most countries.

“Based on the lack of respect that China has shown... I am hereby raising the [tariff] charged to China by the [USA] to 125%, effective immediately,” wrote Trump on Truth Social at 1:18 pm ET. 

It’s not clear if this 125% is in addition to the 20% imposed on Chinese imports to the US. In early March, Trump noted that he would add another 10% tariff on Chinese goods...

Farmers Applaud Return of Whole Milk to Schools

American Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall commented on President Trump signing the Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act into law.

“Farmers applaud Rep. GT Thompson and Senator Roger Marshall for working to return whole milk to America’s schools, and to the president for signing the legislation today. The commonsense, bipartisan bill ensures children will have access to important vitamins, protein and other nutritients while supporting dairy farmers who need access to expanded markets for their product.

“America’s farmers as a whole are struggling with high expenses that outpace income. Finding a solution that benefits everyone without...

Agricultural Groups Sound Alarm about Farmers’ Future

Agriculture groups sound an alarm about the economic crisis in rural America in a letter sent today to Congress. 56 organizations representing a cross-section of agriculture signed the letter, sending a strong message to Congress.

The letter describes an existential threat looming over many farms, stating, “America’s farmers, ranchers, and growers are facing extreme economic pressures that threaten the long-term viability of the U.S. agriculture sector. An alarming number of farmers are financially underwater, farm bankruptcies continue to climb, and many farmers may have difficulty securing financing to grow their next crop.”

Farm losses are the result of a multitude of challenges...

ANALYSIS: Broiler Production, The Final Tally Is In...

With 2026 underway, chicken market activity is gaining momentum as buyers and sellers jockey for early-year positioning. Amid this renewed engagement, it is easy to overlook a critical backdrop: Cumulative chicken headcount closed the year at a record high. Total production reached just over 8.82 billion head, surpassing the prior all-time peak set in 2020 by approximately 180.5 million head. This outcome closely mirrors the steady, week-over-week advances observed in the hatch throughout the past year, with late-Q4 delivering new record weekly highs in both egg sets and placements...

Kroger Launches Fast, Convenient Delivery on Uber Apps Nationwide

Uber Technologies, Inc. (NYSE: UBER) and The Kroger Co. (NYSE: KR) today [January 15, 2026] announced the launch of nearly 2,700 Kroger Family of Companies stores on the Uber Eats, Uber, and Postmates apps. Customers nationwide can now shop their local Kroger banner for fresh groceries, Kroger’s Our Brandsfavorites, household essentials, and more with the convenience of on-demand and same day delivery via Uber’s apps.

This rollout delivers on the companies’ previously announced plan to broaden access, choice, and value for millions of households. In...

Popeyes Announces New Head Chef and Chief Marketing Officer Appointment

Restaurant Brands International was featured in Expana's latest foodservice roundup, highlighting leadership shifts taking shape in 2026.

Just before the new year, the company announced internal promotions for Head Chef positions at two of its flagship brands.

Amy Alarcon has been appointed Head Chef for Burger King, U.S. & Canada, bringing 18 years of industry experience. She will lead Burger King's culinary strategy, including menu innovation, product development, and quality standards across the brand.

Robert (Bobby) O’Brien has been appointed Head Chef for Popeyes...

New Guidelines Spark a Protein-Driven Food Revolution in Foodservice

New dietary guidelines have now been out for a week.

In the update, Americans are encouraged to include protein foods at every meal, focusing on high-quality, nutrient-dense sources. The serving goals outlined in this report are 1.2–1.6 grams (approximately 0.042–0.056 ounces) of protein per kilogram of body weight per day.

"Pretty interesting shift toward protein overall. Under the previous 0.8 g/kg guidelines, intake would have been roughly 69 g/day, while the updated guidance implies about a +34 to...

ANALYSIS: US 2025 Choice–Select Spread Near COVID-Era Lows as Select Supply Tightens

The spread between Choice and Select cutouts has continued to tighten as Select values draw support from increasingly constrained supplies. Cattle grading Select are at record-low levels, limiting the volume of Select product available and compressing the traditional discount to Choice. This scarcity has left the Select cutout less vulnerable to seasonal pressure and allowed it to firm relative to historical norms, even during periods when Choice typically commands the bulk of demand. 

At the start of 2026, the Choice-Select spread...

ANALYSIS: Turkey Market Eyes Modest Supply Relief as Egg Sets Improve Year-Over-Year

The turkey industry closed out 2025 with the second-lowest poult placement number on record, sitting just above that of 2024. However, the egg set figures for January 2026 outpaced those of 2024 and 2025, providing the possibility for slightly greater supply availability in the coming months.

During seven months in 2025, poult placements hit an all-time seasonal low, which influenced record low harvest figures throughout much of the year. On top of slim production numbers, HPAI resulted...

Hunt Brothers® Pizza Brings Back Beloved Buffalo Chicken Pizza LTO

Hunt Brothers® Pizza, the #1 branded pizza program in the convenience store industry, announced the return of the Buffalo Chicken Pizza today, one of its most popular limited time offerings, starting January 19. The Hunt Brothers Pizza LTO program increases foot traffic and profits for thousands of c-store partners by leveraging both made-to-order and grab-and-go sales strategies.

"For 17 years, our Buffalo Chicken Pizza has been one of those special Limited Time Offers that consumers look forward...

ButcherBox Announces Partnership with Target

ButcherBox, a subscription based, direct-to-consumer meat and seafood brand, have announced its first major retail launch.

The company is introducing fresh, 100% grass-fed, grass-finished beef products in Target stores nationwide, aligning with the store's commitment to expand wellness-focused offerings in its inventory.

"This opportunity isn't just about showcasing our brand on Target shelves nationwide," said Reba Hatcher, Chief Commercial Officer at ButcherBox. "It's a major signal in the increasing demand from consumers for healthier meat and making better meat accessible at a larger scale...

Zaxby's Brings Back Fan Favorites for the New Year

"New year, same saucy cravings" is the catchy motto Zaxby's shared in its latest announcement featuring exciting menu innovations.

The company is reintroducing two of its most iconic creations, back by popular demand for a limited time starting January 19.

First up is Zaxby's Southern Fried Shrimp, returning with flair in three distinct styles:

• ZaxSeas Surf & Turf Meal: Combines land and sea favorites featuring the famous breading on eight Southern Fried Shrimp and three Chicken Fingerz™, served with the legendary Zax Sauce®, Texas...

Leadership Shifts Set the Stage in Foodservice for 2026

So far in the new year, we've seen new menus, ad campaigns, partnerships, and emerging trends.

While the industry maintains its focus on consumers, value, and traffic retention, it has ramped up efforts to facilitate growth and expansion.

In this latest foodservice roundup, Expana has assembled a detailed look at the most significant leadership changes shaking up the industry as it welcomes 2026.

Hormel Foods

Hormel Foods announced the upcoming

Hormel Foods

Hormel Foods announced the upcoming retirements of two long-time leaders: Mark Morey, Vice President of Operations for fresh pork, and Paul Peil...

Kroger Announces Executive Leadership Changes, Outlines Vision for 2026

Kroger is making significant changes in its executive team with a series of new appointments.

"We are excited to promote several talented senior executives to key roles that will position Kroger for future success," stated Ron Sargent, Kroger's Chairman and CEO. "Victor Smith, Monica Garnes, Kendra Doyel, and Ken DeLuca are strong leaders with decades of experience, and I look forward to their continued success in their new roles. I also want to thank Colleen Juergensen and Tom Schwilke for their many contributions to our customers, associates, and...

ANALYSIS: Mexico Resets Beef Import Policy as Brazilian Volumes Reach Record Levels 

Brazilian beef imports into Mexico reached 117,486 metric tons in 2025, marking a record year for inflows and a clear step change in the country’s beef import dynamics. Shipments built steadily through the year and accelerated notably from the second quarter onward, as Mexican buyers leaned on competitively priced foreign supply to supplement domestic availability. Although volumes eased late in the year, the cumulative total far exceeded historical figures, confirming that 2025 represented an exceptional expansion phase for Brazilian beef participation...

Wendy's Launches New Biggie Deals Menu

A pioneer in the "value menu" of the quick-service restaurant (QSR) industry, Wendy's has unveiled its latest promotion, delivering even greater value and the savings that consumers eagerly crave.

Home of the "fresh, never frozen" burger, Wendy's is introducing its Biggie Deals value menu, featuring fan favorites and more, which guests can bundle into $4, $6, and $8 combos.

"We know customers want choice and a meal option made just for them. That's why we're expanding Biggie Deals — to provide more ways to customize and enjoy...

Save A Lot to Eliminate Synthetic Dyes from Private Label Products

Amidst the rising trend of consumers opting for store brands that combine affordability with quality, Save A Lot is taking significant steps to enhance the transparency and healthiness of its product range.

As the largest independently owned and operated value-focused grocery chain in the US, Save A Lot is committed to phasing out seven artificial dyes from its private label offerings. This initiative underscores the company's dedication to aligning with consumer preferences without compromising on price or product integrity.

The Retail Rundown: Retail Posts Late-Year Gains, but Food Inflation Heats Up

Early 2026 opens with a mixed picture for the food and broader retail sectors.

Retail sales closed out 2025 with solid momentum, as CNBC/NRF data showed holiday sales from Nov. 1 through Dec. 31 rising 4.1% from the year prior. Food and beverage stores also ended the year strong, posting a 0.33% month-over-month gain on a seasonally adjusted basis and a 2.85% increase from a year earlier.

That strength now faces challenges as the industry moves into its usual post-holiday slowdown, amplified by...

FMI Celebrates Congressional Sponsors for Reintroducing Credit Card Competition Act

Today [January 13, 2026], FMI – The Food Industry Association offered its endorsement of the reintroduced bipartisan, bicameral Credit Card Competition Act (CCCA) and expressed gratitude for the leadership of bill sponsors Senators Roger Marshall (R-KS) and Dick Durbin (D-IL) and Representatives Lance Gooden (R-TX) and Zoe Lofgren (D-CA). The legislation requires the nation’s largest banks to enable a second network on a credit card on which to route transactions, similar to the existing federal law for two debit networks to be enabled on a debit card. 

“FMI enthusiastically endorses the reintroduction of the Credit Card...

NRF Renews Call to Pass Swipe Fee Legislation

The following statement may be attributed to National Retail Federation following the reintroduction of the Credit Card Competition Act.

“NRF commends Senators Roger Marshall, R-Kan., and Dick Durbin, D-Ill., and Representatives Lance Gooden, R-Texas, and Zoe Lofgren, D-Calif., for their steadfast leadership in challenging the credit card swipe fee duopoly. The Credit Card Competition Act is essential to leveling the playing field for millions of American businesses that currently lack any control over the non-negotiable fees tied to every card transaction.

“By fostering much-needed competition, this bipartisan legislation will provide direct relief to both retailers and consumers...

FMI Statement on December CPI Food Price Numbers

Today [January 13, 2026], FMI – The Food Industry Association commented on the December Consumer Price Index (CPI) numbers from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), which show a 0.7% rise in food-at-home prices for December and a 2.4% increase over the last 12 months. FMI Vice President of Tax, Trade, Sustainability and Policy Development Andy Harig offered the following statement.  

“Today’s CPI numbers reflect the ongoing challenge of bringing food inflation under control. Overall inflation remains stubbornly above the Federal Reserve’s 2% target, and food prices also disappointingly reflected...

Kroger Reveals Food Trend Predictions of 2026

The Kroger Co. (NYSE: KR) today announced its top six food trends for 2026, predicting customer behaviors and anticipated popular products for the new year.

Developed by Kroger's industry-leading team of food experts, the trend predictions offer a complete forecast of what customers will be craving in 2026.

"The way our customers eat will be more dynamic than ever this year as they look to elevate everyday meals, snacks and treats with bold flavors, functional ingredients and culinary creativity, delivering a premium experience for less," said Ann Reed, Group Vice President, Our Brands for Kroger. "Whether it's a protein and fiber...

Revolutionizing Value Dining with Taco Bell's New Luxe Value Menu

Taco Bell is set to launch its new Luxe Value Menu on January 22, offering a new perspective on value for the conscious consumer.

Renowned for its value-focused options like the iconic Cravings Value Menu and the popular Luxe Boxes, Taco Bell continues to lead the industry in value offerings.

"At Taco Bell, value has always been about delivering more — more flavor, more abundance, more options, more excitement," said Luis Restrepo, Chief Marketing Officer, North America, at Taco Bell.

The Luxe Value Menu boasts a variety of items priced at $3 or less, introducing five innovative new selections alongside five fan favorites from the Cravings Value Menu.

Aldi Marks 50 Years in the US With Expansion, Investment, and Digital Upgrades

Marking its 50th year in the US, Aldi is pursuing nationwide expansion and online shopping improvements to build on its success.

After adding more than 17 million customers in 2025, the company is expanding its footprint, with plans to open 180 new stores across 31 US states in 2026. As budget-conscious shopping persists, Aldi’s strong private-label offering continues to anchor its value proposition amid ongoing cost pressures.

"One in three US households shopped at ALDI this...

From Restructuring to Revival, TGI Fridays’ Global Growth Strategy

On to brighter days

Home to the infamous Jack Daniel’s–infused whiskey sauce, TGI Fridays has navigated a challenging stretch over the past couple of years, marked by the retirement and return of CEO Ray Blanchette, store closures, and a Chapter 11 filing at the end of 2024.

However, a turnaround has taken shape, as menu innovation and global expansion gained momentum in 2025 and continue to carry the brand forward into 2026.

On November 2, 2024, TGI Fridays announced it had filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy , seeking...

USDA Names New Leadership of the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) today announced important leadership changes within the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS). Dr. Michael Watson, APHIS Administrator, will retire at the end of January after decades of distinguished service, and Dr. Rosemary Sifford, Deputy Administrator for Veterinary Services and U.S. Chief Veterinary Officer, has recently retired from federal service after a similarly notable career. Beginning on February 1, 2026, Ms. Kelly Moore will serve as Acting Administrator and effective immediately, Dr. Alan...

UNFI Identifies Key Trends Shaping Fresh Departments for Retailers in 2026

While shoppers are spending more deliberately, the fresh departments are still earning their attention. Categories including produce, floral, bakery, deli, specialty cheese, meat, and seafood are outperforming the rest of the store, with fresh product sales up 3.7% year over year*.

That performance reflects shifting shopper expectations: better taste, stronger nutrition, added convenience, and more transparency from the products they buy.

For retailers, success in fresh now depends on understanding these drivers and partnering with experts who can translate trends into execution on the sales floor.

Ron Selders, UNFI’s President...

Jersey Mike's Launches New Chapter of Growth with International Expansion into the UK and Ireland

Jersey Mike's Subs, a leading franchisor of over 3,200 fast-casual sandwich shops known for its fresh sliced and fresh grilled subs, today announced it has signed a franchise agreement with JM Submarines UK LTD, led by Jersey Mike's founder and Chairman of the Board, Peter Cancro, to open 400 stores in the United Kingdom and Ireland. Cancro founded Jersey Mike's more than 50 years ago and remains a significant shareholder following the Company's sale to Blackstone last year...

ANALYSIS: Japan’s Nov 2025 Beef Imports Contract from Six-Month Highs as Demand Cools

Japan’s beef imports in November 2025 slumped from its six-month high at 38,732 metric tons (mt), according to the latest data released by Japan’s Trade Statistics.

Inbound volumes plunged a hefty 21.3% month-on-month (MOM) (-10,453 mt) across major suppliers.

Despite weak domestic consumption, imports by the world’s third-largest beef buyer rose 11.9% year-on-year (YOY), an increase of 4,113 mt, reflecting gains from a lower base earlier in the year.

Rising global beef prices and higher yen-denominated costs from a...

ANALYSIS: The Aftermath of a Year with Record Low Select Grading

Select grading has been declining since around August, with two record lows set in December. This decline is partly due to reduced feeder cattle imports from Mexico. Other contributing factors include improving domestic cattle genetics and higher cattle prices, which are prompting some producers to hold onto cattle longer to increase their weights. This practice results in more cattle grading Prime and Choice.

This shift in grading has significantly affected Select material availability, as evidenced by the Select loin cutout price. Comparing...

ANALYSIS: US Cage-Free Prices Continue to Slide, Touching All-Time Low 

The US cage-free egg market continues to weaken, with the EBP rest-of-market quote dipping to $0.89/dozen this week—an all-time low since Expana began publishing daily assessments in January 2024. While demand dynamics have certainly contributed to the decline, the most significant driver has been the sharp rebound in production. 

Following repopulation efforts after the worst of this year’s HPAI impact, the cage-free layer flock has climbed to approximately 140.4 million birds, according to the...

Top 10 Headlines on Expana in 2025—and What Could Shape the Next Year in Food and Ag

2025 was a big year for news in the food and agriculture industry. Headlines ranging from livestock diseases and sweeping policy changes to rising geopolitical tensions, shifting tariffs, weather events, and evolving consumer trends influenced commercial strategies, supply chains, and global market dynamics... 

ANALYSIS: Historically Heavy Chicken, Historically Strong Demand

Average live weights in the US broiler industry remained at historically high levels for much of 2025, yet the market response diverged meaningfully from prior high-weight cycles. Weekly USDA federally inspected young chicken weights spent most of the year above the five-year average near 6.4 pounds, with extended stretches from late spring through early fall pressing toward the upper end of the historical range. In a more typical environment, that level of tonnage would have created sustained downward pricing pressure. Instead, the market largely absorbed the additional production.

ANALYSIS: Brazil's December Beef Exports Fell 4.2% MOM, 2025 Total Volume Up 21.4% to 3.09m MT

According to the latest data from Brazil’s Ministry of Development, Industry, Trade, and Services, beef exports reached 304,977 mt in December 2025, declining 4.2% from November. Despite the monthly pullback, volumes were 50.6% higher than last year. On a cumulative basis, exports totaled 3,090,469 mt in 2025, representing a 21.4% growth compared to 2024.

China remained Brazil’s largest destination by far, even though December volumes eased 15.3% month-over-month (MOM) to...

ANALYSIS: Gap Between US Imported Beef 90s and Fresh Domestic 90s Shrink YOY in 2025

In 2025, the average price premium of US fresh 90s over imported 90s averaged $0.45/lb for Australia/New Zealand, $0.53/lb for Uruguay/Argentina, and $0.54/lb for Brazil. Across all major exporting origins, the US domestic and import price spread narrowed by approximately $0.10/lb relative to 2024.

This compression occurred despite a continuation of US domestic lean beef supply constraints. Domestic cow slaughter remained limited in 2025, supporting higher prices for...

ANALYSIS: US Egg Prices Drop to Five-Year Low Amid Muted Demand, Mounting Inventories

The US shell egg market is facing one of the most sustained periods of pressure seen in recent history, driven by a rare convergence of weak demand across all major channels and a steadily expanding supply base. Unlike prior downturns that were more narrowly rooted in seasonal lulls or market corrections, the present environment reflects a more entrenched imbalance that has proven difficult to unwind.

Demand: Soft Across the Board

On the demand side, performance has been...

ANALYSIS:2025 Pork Production Trends Reflect Softer Output Versus 2024

According to the latest USDA data, federally inspected monthly pork production in 2025 totaled approximately 25,060.9 million pounds through November, representing a 1.6% decline from the same period in 2024, when output reached 25,460.2 million pounds. On a year-to-date basis, average monthly production in 2025 is running near 2,278 million pounds, down about 1.6% from the 2024 YTD average, and roughly 0.5% below the three-year average. This confirms the narrative established earlier in the year that overall production has moderated...

Subway Launches Resolution-Ready, Protein-Packed Menu to Meet Consumer Demand

Aligned with the latest Dietary Guidelines for Americans 2025–2030, Subway is reinforcing its commitment to protein-forward, value-driven menu innovations. The brand is kicking off the new year with "resolution-ready" offerings designed to meet evolving consumer demand for affordable, better-for-you choices.

Subway’s New Year lineup delivers on what consumers continue to prioritize: "protein power" at an accessible price point.

On Jan 8, Subway introducesd its all-new Protein Pockets, each delivering more than 20g of protein, paired with fresh vegetables...

Lamb Weston Shutters One Plant, Defers to New Production in Argentina; North American Sales Flat

As of January 8, Lamb Weston will close one potato processing facility in Munro to consolidate into its newest facility in Mar del Plata, Argentina, according to a press release from the group that supplies some of the world's largest fast-food chains. While the company realizes most of its profits in North America, officials say other markets like Argentina are growing quickly.

“These actions are part of our broader strategy to improve profitability and enhance operational efficiency across our global manufacturing network..."