Day 49 of Iran War: Oil Slumps as Iran Opens Hormuz; Lebanon Ceasefire Fuels Hopes of Wider Deal

With a 10-day ceasefire in Lebanon taking effect, Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said the Strait of Hormuz is open to all commercial vessels for the duration of the truce, Reuters reported.

US President Donald Trump said a broader deal to end the war involving Iran is “very close,” with another round of negotiations potentially taking place this weekend in Islamabad. 

Despite signs of progress, significant hurdles remain as key differences persist, leaving both sides preparing for either a diplomatic breakthrough...

Smithfield Unveils New Agency Team to Strengthen Brand Growth and Consumer Reach

Smithfield Foods announced a new integrated agency team designed to amplify market presence, deepen consumer connection and innovation across its portfolio of brands including Smithfield, Nathan’s, Eckrich, Farmland, Armour, Farmer John, Kretschmar, Carando and Margherita.

The company has assembled a coalition aimed at leading its brand strategy. As part of this effort the company has named Leo Chicago as creative agency of record and LaForce as lead communications partner joining existing agencies Kelly Scott Madison Media and Mars United Commerce, who will continue leading...

Fogo de Chão Announces Retirement of Chief Financial Officer Anthony “Tony” D. Laday

Fogo de Chão, the internationally renowned restaurant from Brazil known for its elevated churrasco dining experience, today announced that Tony Laday, Chief Financial Officer, has decided to retire after a distinguished career.

Tony has served as Chief Financial Officer since April 2014, overseeing Finance, Accounting, Supply Chain, Treasury, Investor Relations, and Technology. His retirement marks the culmination of a 12-year tenure during which he played a critical role in shaping Fogo’s financial and operational foundation and...

ANALYSIS: Chicken Production Soars as Egg Sets and Chick Placements Reach All-Time Highs

Broiler egg sets and chick placements continue to come in at record high levels, reflecting a continued push by the chicken industry to increase production...

Expana's Weekly Top 10

Expana’s Weekly Top 10 rounds up some of the biggest stories shaping markets this week, all reported by our trusted experts and journalists. From weekly digests to Europe’s evolving CO2 supply landscape and daily coverage of how the conflict in the Middle East is affecting global commodities, this recap highlights some of the week’s most impactful and insightful developments.

This list is in no particular order.

10. Shannon Behary reported on discussions from gasworld's recent European Co2 Summit

Europe’s biomethane sector is becoming a bigger source of merchant CO2, giving the food...

Walmart Launches Major Store Investment Push with 650+ Remodels, Great Value Brand Refresh

US retail giant Walmart announced on April 16 that it will make "significant" investments across its stores to create jobs, strengthen local communities, and deliver faster, more convenient shopping experiences. The company also unveiled a comprehensive redesign of its flagship private label 'Great Value' brand.

For 2026, Walmart has scheduled over 650 remodels to its Supercenters and Neighborhood Markets, alongside approximately 20 new store openings planned through early 2027. The company has already opened several new locations this year, including Supercenters in Eastvale, California...

First Continent-Wide Map of Dominant Avian Influenza Strain Explains Its Spread

An international group of scientists mapped the spread of the current dominant strain of highly pathogenic avian influenza virus through North American bird populations in 2024. Led by scientists from St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, the collaboration provides a comprehensive view of this novel flu spreading through birds in North America. The investigators collected and sequenced samples from birds across the continent, letting them map the virus's spread. They also compared the virus from birds to those causing human infections, showing that current human vaccine stockpiles will likely...

USMEF Statement on America First Trade Promotion Program Allocations

On April 16, the USDA Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS) announced the 2026 America First Trade Promotion Program (AFTPP) funding allocations, which are key investments aimed at advancing U.S. agricultural exports.

U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF) President and CEO Dan Halstrom issued this statement:

USMEF greatly appreciates the Trump administration’s efforts to expand U.S. agricultural exports through reciprocal trade agreements and other critical negotiations. But resources are also needed to capitalize on these agreements, and...

Day 48 of Iran War: Pakistan Steps Up Mediation as US-Iran Talks Gain Momentum

Efforts to revive negotiations between the United States and Iran are gaining momentum, with Pakistan acting again as an intermediary. 

The renewed diplomatic push comes against a backdrop of escalating tensions. Iran has warned it may broaden its response to a US naval blockade beyond its territorial waters.

Meanwhile, divisions persist in Washington, where the US Senate has rejected a measure that sought to curb the war without congressional approval.

The economic fallout from the war could deepen global food insecurity, with millions more at...

Blimpie Launches Big Flavor and Bigger Value with New $7.99 Meal Deal

This spring, Blimpie® is bringing unbeatable value to sandwich lovers nationwide with the launch of its newest promotional offering, The Best Meal Deal, available now at participating U.S. locations.

Designed for guests who crave both quality and value, The Best Meal Deal features a rotating lineup of Blimpie’s core subs made the Blimpie Way, or with the customer’s choice of toppings, so customers can enjoy the subs they love, in a complete meal.

Each meal includes a regular size daily...

PrimoHoagies Appoints Angela Coppler as SVP of Development to Accelerate Next Phase of Expansion

PrimoHoagies, the award-winning Italian specialty sandwich franchise known for its authentic hoagies, premium ingredients, and 30+ year heritage, recently announced the appointment of Angela Coppler as Senior Vice President of Development.

The move signals a deliberate evolution in the brand's growth strategy, focusing on disciplined, performance-driven national scaling designed to attract sophisticated multi-unit operators and investors.

This is not a traditional franchise sales hire. Coppler joined PrimoHoagies to architect and execute a holistic growth strategy, one that...

Chipotle Brings Back its Hockey Jersey BOGO for the 2026 Stanley Cup® Playoffs

Chipotle Mexican Grill is bringing back its Hockey Jersey BOGO for the sixth consecutive year as the 2026 Stanley Cup® Playoffs get underway. On Monday, April 20, after 3 p.m. local time, fans who wear a hockey jersey to participating restaurants in the U.S. and Canada can receive a BUY-ONE-GET-ONE (BOGO) entrée.

Chipotle's First-Ever Hockey Jersey

For the first time, Chipotle is releasing a limited-edition hockey jersey inspired by past Hockey Jersey BOGO...

Buca di Beppo Helps Guests File Away The 2026 Tax Season With Buy-One-Get-One Pasta Celebration

This tax season, there’s even more to go around the table at Buca di Beppo. Order any full-price pasta, get a family-size portion free through April 19, 2026

Taxes are inevitable, but stress doesn’t have to be. This tax season, Buca di Beppo is taking the load off paperwork and loading up pasta dishes that won’t break the bank. Guests can buy one pasta and get a second pasta free (of equal or lesser value), making it easier...

ANALYSIS: Turkey Industry Weighs Hatchery Uptick Against Persistent Disease Threats

While turkey hatchery figures still sit below the five-year average, they continue to outpace last year, which is shaping expectations within the industry that more meat could become available in the months ahead...

USTR 2026 National Trade Estimate Report: Highlights Global Barriers to Trade for Commodity Markets 

On March 31, leaders at the United States Trade Representative (USTR) released its 2026 National Trade Estimate (NTE) report, outlining US market access via country specific details that intends to reshape how US trade policy views global markets. The 500+ page report is divided into sections which address the trade environments present between US markets and those of each trading partner as a baseline for producers, importers, and exporters. It seems that the...

USMEF Partners with Certified Hereford Beef for Three Launch Events in Colombia

Industry efforts to differentiate U.S. beef in Colombia took another step forward with a nationwide launch of the Certified Hereford Beef (CHB) brand. In partnership with member Agri Food & Feed, importer Ancla y Viento and with support by the U.S. Embassy in Bogotá, USMEF implemented promotional launch events for CHB with foodservice and hospitality sectors in three major Colombian cities.

Nearly 350 attendees, including importers, distributors, restaurant owners, chefs, buyers and managers attended the promotional events in Bogotá, Cartagena and Cali. USMEF Colombia Representative María Ruíz provided welcome...

NCBA and ICA Engage in Tax Day Congressional Press Conference

Today [April 15, 2026], members of both the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) and Iowa Cattlemen's Association (ICA) participated in a Tax Day press conference hosted by Speaker of the House Mike Johnson. This event focused on the Working Families Tax Cuts included in the One Big Beautiful Bill (OBBB). The legislation expanded the estate tax exemption, commonly referred to as the Death Tax, and also enacted permanent increases to the Section 199A Small Business Deduction and Section 179 Deduction, and restored 100 percent Bonus Depreciation.

Foreign Agricultural Service Awards $8.4M to Expand Export Market for US Goods

Washington, DC, April 2, 2026 – Today, the US Department of Agriculture’s Foreign Agricultural Service announced more than $8.4 million in funding through three proven programs: the Technical Assistance for Specialty Crops (TASC) program, the Emerging Markets Program (EMP) and the Quality Samples Program (QSP).

All three programs help deliver measurable results for American farmers, ranchers, and producers by reducing technical trade barriers, opening new markets, and meeting a growing international demand for high-quality US agricultural products...

Blue Apron Introduces Family Style to Make Weeknight Dinner Easier for Families

Blue Apron announced Family Style, a new offering designed to make weeknight dinner easier for busy households – without the usual planning, shopping, and cleanup. With a mix-and-match format, customers can choose from a variety of shareable, chef-designed mains and sides to create flexible, home-cooked meals that easily scale for households feeding 3-6.

Designed for busy families, Family Style offers a convenient, balanced alternative to grocery shopping or takeout, with the satisfaction of a home-cooked meal without the usual...

Day 47 of Iran War: Strait of Hormuz Disruption Persists as Diplomacy Inches Forward

The US said it has fully halted maritime trade in and out of Iran while signaling possible renewed peace talks this week.

Despite reported progress in negotiations, the blockade of Iranian ports and the Strait of Hormuz continues to disrupt global shipping, with sanctions pressure and nuclear disputes major sticking points in reaching a lasting deal.

Speaking to Fox News, US President Donald Trump said the Iran war is “very close to over." His comments came as Israeli and Lebanese officials held direct talks...

ANALYSIS: Uruguay’s March 2026 Beef Exports Pulled Back 15.5% MOM to 26,567 MT, Down 11.7% YOY

According to the latest export data released by Uruguay’s National Customs Directorate, fresh beef (chilled and frozen) exports reached 26,567 MT in March 2026, down 15.5% from February and 11.7% below the same month last year.

China remained by far the leading destination, taking 10,921 MT in March. Although volumes fell 11.7% MOM, they still stood 9.8% above March 2025 levels, lifting the country’s share in Uruguay’s export mix to 41.1%, from 33.1% a year earlier...

ANALYSIS: China’s Q1 2026 Meat Imports Dip 3.5% YOY to 1.58M MT Following Milestone Domestic Output

China’s total meat imports (including offal meats) for Q1 2026 eased 3.5% from a year ago totaling 1.58 million metric tons (MT), according to preliminary data from the General Administration of Customs of China (GACC).

In March 2026 alone, volumes hitting Chinese shores reached 502,820 MT, recording a 8.6% month-on-month (MOM) increase.

Inbound shipments edged higher in March 2026 as trade activity recovered from the February slowdown caused by the Chinese New Year.

This monthly uptick...

Wingstop Celebrates 4/20 with the Return of the Fan-Favorite Wingstop Hot Box

Wingstop is delivering big flavor this 4/20 by bringing back its highly requested Wingstop Hot Box, available starting April 17. Designed to take the holiday to new heights, this limited-time offering is the ultimate solution for when the munchies and late-night cravings hit. Fans can also get in on the celebration with an exclusive, limited-edition collectible dropping at select restaurants.

This year's Wingstop Hot Box features the return of the Fiery Nacho flavor: a spicy, cheesy...

Hardee's® Introduces Prime Rib Platform Designed to Fuel Hardworking Appetites

Hardee's is doubling down on its commitment to keeping hardworking people full and satisfied with new items on the menu. Following the success of its Second Breakfast Insurance campaign, the brand is introducing The Prime Experience alongside a lineup of new beverages and sweet treats.

Starting April 15, Hardee's will introduce The Prime Experience, a limited-time lineup that brings prime rib to the menu across breakfast, lunch and dinner. The lineup features indulgent, satisfying options that highlight the brand's made-from-scratch quality while giving guests...

Bojangles Introduces Bo’s Chicken Rippers – Built to Rip, Dip and Deliver Bold Flavor

To celebrate the launch, the Carolina Legend is teaming up with gaming star JoeWo to offer a free Bo’s Chicken Rippers combo through the Bojangles app

Bojangles is putting a new spin on how fans enjoy their chicken with the introduction of Bo’s Chicken Rippers – a bold, hand-breaded, limited-time offering designed to be ripped and dipped.

Building on the success of the brand’s Bo Bites, launched in 2024, Bojangles developed their take on a slider. Bo’s Chicken Rippers feature Bo Bites...

The Retail Rundown: Pork Leads Protein Promotions While Prices Remain Competitive

Retail protein promotions this week show pork holding the top spot for a second consecutive week at 28%. Beef ranks second at 24%, followed closely by seafood at 22%. Chicken promotions increased to 18%, gaining five percentage points from the prior week, while turkey accounts for 2%. Following the Easter holiday, lamb and veal promotions eased to 2%, and egg ads doubled week-over-week to 5%.

Pork pricing remains competitive, with the Weekly Retail Feature Index at $3.40 per pound, below year-ago levels and largely in...

Rep. Vasquez Presses USDA for Answers on New World Screwworm Preparedness as Summer Outbreak Season 

On April 13, 2026, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) sent a letter to Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins demanding answers on the Administration’s preparedness strategy for a New World Screwworm (NWS) outbreak as the warmer months approach. The letter also requested an update on the status of the sterile fly production and dispersal facilities in Texas. He was...

Albertsons Reports Fiscal 2025 Results and Issues Fiscal 2026 Guidance

Albertsons Companies  released results for the fourth quarter and Fiscal 2025, reporting solid adjusted earnings amid pharmacy-related headwinds.

"Fiscal 2025 was a year of disciplined execution and resilience, as we closed the year with a solid fourth quarter that delivered strong Adjusted EBITDA despite meaningful top-line pharmacy-related headwinds," said Susan Morris, CEO of Albertsons Companies.

Morris continued, "Across the full year, we remained focused on building a stronger foundation for the future, including investing in our customer value proposition, advancing digital and...

CNBC/NRF Retail Monitor Shows Sales Grew in March As Tax Refunds Offset Rising Gas Prices

Retail sales rose again in March as consumers received higher-than-usual tax refunds that made up for increased gasoline prices, according to the CNBC/NRF Retail Monitor, powered by Affinity Solutions, released today [April 14, 2026] by NRF.

“Retail sales grew for a sixth consecutive month in March as the first wave of tax refunds offset higher gas prices resulting from the conflict in the Middle East,” NRF President and CEO Matthew Shay said. “Despite record low consumer sentiment and the...

Save A Lot Re-Launches and Expands Its Private Label Hispanic Brand With La Tierra de Sabores

As Save A Lot continues to expand its culturally relevant private label offerings, the largest independently owned and operated value-focused grocery store chain in the U.S. is re-launching and expanding its private label Hispanic brand under a new name, La Tierra de Sabores.

The refreshed brand features vibrant colors and patterns designed to reflect a more authentic, modern look while maintaining the quality and value Save A Lot shoppers expect. The update marks a major...

Church's Texas Chicken® and Texas Chicken™ Enter China with Landmark 600-Restaurant Agreement

Church's Texas Chicken® and Texas Chicken™, one of the largest quick-service chicken restaurant brands in the world, is bringing its bold, Texas-inspired flavor to China, marking a major milestone in the company's global growth and its 27th international market. The brand's first restaurant in China is slated to open in Shanghai in Summer 2026, with additional locations to follow.

To support its entry into the market, Texas Chicken has partnered with Deke Shengtang...

Day 46 of Iran War: Trump Says Iran Deal Still Possible Amid Escalating Gulf Tensions 

US and Iranian negotiating teams may return to Islamabad later this week to resume talks aimed at ending the war, following failed weekend negotiations and the US blockade on Iranian ports. 

Iran’s military denounced the blockade as unlawful and warned it could threaten shipping throughout the Gulf. Even with rising tensions, Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said the fragile ceasefire between Washington and Tehran was still “holding."

Instability in the Strait of Hormuz is increasing pressure on the global energy markets, with roughly 20,000 ships reportedly stuck and major supply chains being disrupted...

Chili's® $10.99 3 For Me® Menu Goes After Fast Food's So-Called "Value" Meals Once Again

The chicken sandwich category has exploded over the last few years, but consumers continue to feel the empty promise of so-called "value" from fast food restaurants. For years, Chili's® Grill & Bar has redefined value with the addition of Big Smasher and Big QP burgers to the game-changing 3 For Me menu, giving guests an entrée with fries, bottomless chips and salsa, and an unlimited fountain drink for just...

New Meal Ready Cuts from Smithfield® Deliver Bold Flavor in Minutes with No Prep Required

A new line of pre-cut, pre-marinated pork delivers premium meals in under 20 minutes

Smithfield is redefining mealtime with the launch of Smithfield Meal Ready Cuts, a first-of-its-kind lineup of pre-cut, pre-marinated fresh pork designed to deliver bold, globally inspired meals in under 20 minutes. With no preparation, marinating or chopping required, the lineup brings restaurant-worthy flavor straight from package to pan.

Smithfield Meal Ready Cuts meets the demands of busy...

Denny’s Names Christopher Bode President and Chief Executive Officer

Denny’s, America’s Diner, announced today Christopher Bode as its new President and Chief Executive Officer. Bode will lead the iconic brand’s transformation with the launch of “Project Grand Slam,” a new, comprehensive 24-month strategic roadmap to modernize the business trajectory through culinary innovation, digital transformation and a renewed commitment to operational excellence.

Bode is a seasoned executive with over three decades of leadership experience in the restaurant industry and a veteran of the United States Navy. Most recently he served as Denny’s President and Chief...

ANALYSIS: Brazil’s March 2026 Beef Exports Fell Marginally MOM to 233,949 MT, Still Up 8.7% YOY

The latest data released by Brazil’s Ministry of Development, Industry, Trade, and Services showed that March 2026 fresh beef exports dropped slightly by 0.8% from the previous month to 233,949 MT. When compared to the same period last year, total volume was still 8.7% higher year-over-year (YOY).

ANALYSIS: US 90% Lean Imported Beef Starts 2026 With Growing Price Divergence Among Origins

Since the start of 2026, a notable price divergence has emerged between 90% lean boneless beef sourced from Australia and New Zealand (Au/NZ) and comparable Brazilian product. These two origins represent the dominant sources of imported lean beef flowing into the US market, where they serve a critical role in ground beef blending operations as processors combine imported 90s with fattier domestic trim to achieve target lean percentages for retail and foodservice programs.

Historically, the two origins trade in..

Nationwide Survey: Most Farmers Can’t Afford Fertilizer

An overwhelming majority of America’s farmers who responded to a nationwide survey say they cannot afford to purchase enough fertilizer to get them through the year. The percentage who pre-purchased fertilizer varies significantly by region.

Conducted by the American Farm Bureau Federation April 3-11, the survey shows 70% of respondents say fertilizer is so expensive that they will not be able to buy all the fertilizer they need.

More than 5,700 farmers, both Farm Bureau members and non-members, from every state and Puerto Rico took the survey. Farm Bureau economists...

American, Canadian and Mexican Retail Organizations United in Support of USMCA/CUSMA

During a visit to Washington, the Retail Council of Canada (RCC) met with the National Retail Federation (NRF) to discuss, among other things, the importance of preserving the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement. American, Canadian and Mexican retail leadership stand firmly together in our support of preserving the USMCA. Kim Furlong, president and CEO of RCC; Matthew Shay, president and CEO of NRF; and Diego Cosio Barto, executive president and CEO of ANTAD, issued the following statement regarding the upcoming review of the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement...

Ireland: Minister Heydon Announces €4 Million Dairy Beef Weighing Measure

Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Martin Heydon TD, today announced the opening of the 2026 National Dairy Beef Weighing Scheme (NDBWS).

Commenting on the opening of the measure, Minister Heydon said:

“Similar to its predecessors, this scheme is intended to offer diversification opportunities for dairy and beef farmers, enabling them to benefit from the growing importance of dairy-beef production. Calf-to-beef systems are specialised operations. This weighing action helps farmers with decision-making regarding their stock, while also providing more accurate data on herd performance...

Cream of the Crop: Beef From Dairy Paves Pathway

Transforming the management of non-replacement dairy calves by creating a viable beef from dairy pathway is the key focus of a recently launched dairy Australia and MLA Initiative – CalfWays.

The CalfWays partnership will drive welfare, environmental and productivity outcomes across the supply chain. 

With more than one million dairy calves born each year, the benefits are set to be significant.  

Developed by Dairy Australia in collaboration with more than 150 stakeholders, the initiative aims to ensure all dairy-origin calves which are not required for herd maintenance will have a valued market pathway, primarily as beef cattle, by 2035...

NRF Announces 2026 Top 50 Global Retailers

The National Retail Federation today [April 10, 2026] announced the 2026 Top 50 Global Retailers. Conducted by Kantar, the list ranks the leading international retailers based on their retail revenues throughout 2025. As the largest global retailers continue to expand outside of retail revenues, this list focuses only on retail-specific revenues and not overall organizational revenue.

“The retail industry continues to show its strength, delivering a solid year despite a range of ongoing challenges,” NRF Chief Economist and Executive Director of Research Mark Mathews said. “The retailers on this year’s list have...

Popeyes® Sets Sail with ONE PIECE with an Epic Anime-Inspired Menu and Collectibles Drop

Popeyes® is bringing the spirit of adventure to fans nationwide with the launch of its first ever anime collaboration, Popeyes x ONE PIECE, in partnership with the legendary studio Toei Animation. A celebration of the global hit series and pop culture phenomenon ONE PIECE, Popeyes x ONE PIECE launches on April 13 at participating Popeyes restaurants across the US and Canada, and features a limited-time menu that transforms the epic world of ONE PIECE into a craveable...

Day 45 of Iran War: Oil Prices Surge Above $100 as US Tightens Control Over Iranian Gulf 

The United States said it will begin blockading all Iranian Gulf ports at 10 a.m. ET on Monday, tightening control over shipping in the Strait of Hormuz after talks with Iran over the weekend ended without agreement.

US President Trump indicated that US forces would intercept vessels in international waters that had paid what he described as illegal tolls to Iran.

Iran condemned the move as “piracy” and warned it could retaliate against Gulf ports, signaling escalating tensions with no quick reopening of the...

ANALYSIS: US Cage-Free Market Tests Stabilization Amid Ongoing Oversupply

The cage-free market, mirroring similar indicators in the conventional segment, has shown tentative signs of stabilization through the back half of the week. The shift reflects growing reluctance from sellers to discount product further, alongside a modest increase in buying interest from distribution channels. It’s not that end-user demand has risen substantially per se, but rather that greater buyer confidence has emerged as the pace of declines has slowed.

Despite the slight increase in interest, procurement has come with limited resistance. Cage-free...

ANALYSIS: US Choice Loin Flap Meat Charting a New Course in 2026

In 2026, loin flap meat began the year somewhat near 2025 levels in January, but by February and on, prices have taken off separately from all previous years. Historically, over the past 5 years, loin flap meat tends to hold somewhat steady with slight increases and decreases experienced around the February-March time frame and steep inclines usually don’t kick off until around April.

In the month of March, the price increased 11%, the second largest increase experienced so far this year with February roughly increasing 12% from...

Subway® Issuing 1040 "Refunds" For Tax Day

Filing 1040 tax forms is no fun. But 1,040 free footlongs? That's a Tax Day refund Americans can get behind! With everyday costs and living expenses seemingly rising by the day, even taxpayers lucky enough to get a refund from the IRS this year may see it disappear quickly.

That's why Subway is offering Sub Club members more than a free footlong with the purchase of another footlong through April 28 on Subway.com and the Subway app*. 1,040 randomly selected members who use...

Red Robin Stacks Up New Towering Double Cheeseburger Sliders With King’s Hawaiian Rolls

Red Robin is taking aim at the idea that sliders have to be small and underwhelming.

Starting April 20, the burger chain is rolling out its new Towering Double Cheeseburger Sliders at participating restaurants nationwide, featuring a larger-format take on the traditional slider with double beef patties, double cheese and King’s Hawaiian rolls.

The limited-time menu item includes four double-patty sliders per order, made with 100% fresh, never frozen hand-cut beef, for up to 12...

Beyond Meat® Debuts Latest Beyond Breakfast Sausage® Lineup at Retailers Nationwide 

Beyond Meat, Inc., otherwise known as Beyond The Plant Protein Company™, today announced the nationwide rollout of its latest Beyond Breakfast Sausage lineup at major retailers including Kroger and Sprouts Farmers Market, with Whole Foods Market coming soon.

As protein continues to dominate consumer nutrition priorities—with 70% of Americans actively trying to increase intake and nearly half prioritizing protein at breakfast2—the brand is leaning into the morning occasion with great-tasting and convenient plant protein options made from clean...

US CDC and Indonesian Government Strengthen Avian Influenza Preparedness

Palembang, Indonesia — The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), through its implementor Health Security Partners, concluded a four-day tabletop exercise and field training this week aimed at strengthening District and Provincial Rapid Response Teams in South Sumatra Province.  The exercise, held April 7-10 in Palembang, brought together the CDC and key Indonesian government agencies to enhance bilateral preparedness against avian influenza and other emerging infectious disease threats.

The collaborative exercise was coordinated with Indonesia’s Ministry of Health (MOH), Ministry of Agriculture (MOA), Coordinating Ministry for Human Development and Cultural Affairs, and Natural Resources Conservation Agency, demonstrating the whole...

FAO and USDA Join Forces to Contain African Swine Fever in the Dominican Republic

African swine fever (ASF) is one of the most devastating diseases affecting pigs, capable of wiping out entire herds and threatening livelihoods across the livestock sector.  When the Dominican Republic confirmed the presence of ASF in 2021 — the first detection in the Western Hemisphere in over 40 years — the risk extended far beyond the country’s borders, raising concern across the Americas.

In response, the Government of the Dominican Republic launched a National Swine Biosecurity Plan with technical support from the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), the United States Department of Agriculture’s...

FMI Statement on March CPI Food Price Numbers

Today [April 10, 2026], FMI – The Food Industry Association commented on the March Consumer Price Index (CPI) numbers from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), which shows a 0.2% decrease in food-at-home prices for March and a 1.9% increase over the last 12 months. FMI Vice President of Tax, Trade, Sustainability and Policy Development Andy Harig offered the following statement.    

“The CPI numbers released today showing a decrease in grocery inflation should be welcome news for consumers following notable increases in recent months. Staples like beef, poultry, fish and eggs, cereal and bakery products, and dairy products...

Expana's Weekly Top 10

From geopolitical tensions reshaping global trade flows to shifting consumer trends redefining food demand, this week’s Expana Top 10 highlights the key stories driving commodity markets and the food industry. Ongoing developments in the Middle East, evolving trade policies, and supply chain disruptions continue to influence pricing and availability, while innovation in retail, foodservice, and consumer products signals where growth opportunities lie. Here’s a look at the most impactful headlines shaping the market right now. This list in no particular order. 

10.Expana proceeds to provide ample coverage...

NCBA and OCA Express Disappointment in Federal Court Ruling on Poultry Case

Oklahoma Cattlemen’s Association (OCA) President, Ford Drummond, and National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) President, Gene Copenhaver, released the following statement after the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Oklahoma’s rejection of the state of Oklahoma’s negotiated settlement with four poultry companies in the decades-old State of Oklahoma v. Tyson Foods, Inc., et al., lawsuit regarding the application of chicken litter in the Illinois River Watershed.

“Cattle producers across Oklahoma and the Illinois River Watershed are greatly disappointed by the U.S. District Court’s rejection of a settlement between Oklahoma poultry producers and the state of Oklahoma. The decades-old lawsuit relies on outdated...

JBS USA Reaches Agreement with UFCW Local 7, Restores Normal Operations at Greeley Facility

JBS USA announced today [April 12, 2026] that it has reached a new collective bargaining agreement with UFCW Local 7, allowing the Greeley beef production facility to return to normal operations and providing team members with clarity and stability after weeks of uncertainty.

The agreement, which runs through April 2028, reflects the same economic framework JBS USA presented in its Last, Best and Final offer—an offer that remained unchanged economically throughout the bargaining process. While JBS USA...