PODCAST: Episode 48 - Fueling Food Production: The Volatility of Energy Costs in 2026
Harvest season is well underway and it is the most energy-intensive period of the agricultural year. Meanwhile, the energy cost outlook for the food and agriculture sector remains complex and uncertain. In this episode of Agri-Food for Thought, join Jamie and guest, Senior Forecast Analyst Amanda Rastovic, as they break down the latest in energy market volatility and its impact on the sector.
Listen now.
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NCC Elects New Officers; Wayne-Sanderson’s Kevin McDaniel Installed as Chairman
The National Chicken Council (NCC) has installed the officers that will guide the organization through 2027. The installation took place today at NCC’s 71st Annual Conference in Washington, D.C. Kevin McDaniel, President and Chief Executive Officer of Wayne-Sanderson Farms, will serve as 2026-2027 Chairman.
Kevin served as Senior Vice President and General Manager of the Fresh Business Unit, and held the role of Chief Operating Officer for Wayne Farms prior to the acquisition. With over 35 years of industry experience, he brings a wealth of leadership expertise...
P.F. Chang’s Leans on Nostalgia in New Brand Campaign
As nostalgia continues to shape marketing across the foodservice sector, P.F. Chang’s is leaning into multigenerational dining occasions in a new campaign aimed at reconnecting with long-time guests.
The campaign centers on a new brand spot set to Lukas Graham’s “7 Years,” following guests through milestones such as birthdays and family gatherings and celebrations. The creative highlights signature menu items and dining experiences, including Chang’s Lettuce Wraps and the Great Wall of Chocolate dessert, as the brand encourages former guests to return with their...
ANALYSIS: Mexico NWSW Cases Hold Steady as Detections Spread North
October brought another step in the gradual reopening of US ports to Mexican cattle, with Columbus, New Mexico, resuming operations on October 26, following Douglas, Arizona, in August and Santa Teresa, New Mexico, in September. Even so, New World screwworm (NWSW) remained the central issue shaping the cattle trade outlook, as sanitary risk continued to determine the pace and scope of reopening.
Mexico currently reports 1,896 active NWSW cases, down 6.7% month over month, while cumulative detections have reached 49,626. Even so, the geographic spread of the parasite has become...
ANALYSIS: Three Straight Months of Record-Low Placements Point to Tightening Cattle Supplies
USDA's October 1 Cattle on Feed report showed 11.372 million head in feedyards, just 0.40% below a year ago and 1.42% below the five-year average. This was the second lowest total for October 1 in the last 9 years. That is up 204,000 head from September 1. September placements of 1.777 million head were 12.07% below last year and 16.33% below the five-year average, the lowest for September since the series began in 1996. This marks the 3rd month in a row of fresh record...
Secretary Rollins Commends Governors for Taking Action on Emergency Diesel Relief
Today, U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins recognized the 31 states that have taken early action to complement President Donald J. Trump’s emergency dyed diesel relief initiative and encouraged remaining governors to take corresponding action to provide relief to American farmers, ranchers, and transportation operators.
On October 5, 2026, President Trump, with the strong support of Vice President J.D. Vance, signed Executive Order 14435, Emergency Tax Relief on Diesel Fuel, directing the U.S. Department of the Treasury and Internal Revenue Service (IRS)...
Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza Detected in a Commercial Turkey Flock in Sac County
The Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship and the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) have detected a case of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (H5N1 HPAI) in a commercial turkey flock in Sac County. This case is Iowa’s eighth detection of H5N1 HPAI in 2026.
About H5N1 HPAI in Birds
H5N1 HPAI is a viral disease that affects both wild and domestic bird populations. H5N1 HPAI can travel in wild birds without those birds appearing sick, but is often fatal to domestic bird populations, including chickens and turkeys...
New World Screwworm in the US - What We Know
The New World screwworm (NWS), a flesh-eating parasitic fly whose larvae feed on living tissue, has re-emerged as a major animal-health threat in the Americas after spreading northward through Central America and Mexico.
Federal and state authorities have expanded surveillance, quarantines, and sterile-fly releases in an effort to prevent the pest from becoming re-established in the country.
On October 21, the USDA confirmed the first detection of NWS in US wildlife in an elk in Pecos County, Texas, while New Mexico officials reported a case in...
Executive, Sous Chefs Participate in USMEF Culinary Education Program in Indonesia
Training programs for U.S. beef and pork help build a network of culinary advocates among executive and sous chefs from upscale restaurants in Jakarta.
USMEF brought a group of 25 executive and sous chefs together for an educational seminar in Jakarta, Indonesia, with one day devoted to U.S. beef and the second day to U.S. pork. The chefs, from top restaurants in the city, were customers of Indonesian importer PT Indoguna Utama. Also participating were the importer’s executive chef and three culinary influencers.
USMEF began each day’s session with an industry...
USDA Confirms New World Screwworm in Arizona
The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) confirmed a case of New World screwworm (NWS) in a dog in Cochise County, Arizona. This is the first detection of NWS in Arizona.
Samples from the dog were tested and confirmed at the APHIS National Veterinary Services Laboratories in Ames, Iowa. APHIS is working closely with the Arizona Department of Agriculture on a joint response.
New World screwworm is a serious pest that affects livestock, pets, wildlife, and, less commonly, people. The larvae feed on living tissue and can cause severe wounds, animal suffering...
The Wendy's Company Confirms Receipt of Unsolicited Proposal from Trian Partners
The Wendy's Company (Nasdaq: WEN) ("Wendy's" or the "Company") today [October 28, 2026] confirmed that it received an unsolicited, non-binding proposal from Trian Fund Management, L.P. ("Trian Partners"), Flynn Group LP, BlueFive Capital and Sixth Street Partners (the "Investor Group") to acquire all of the outstanding shares of common stock of Wendy's not currently owned by the Investor Group for $7.35 per share in cash (the "Proposal").
In response to the Schedule 13D/A filed by Trian Partners on February 18, 2026, the Wendy's Board of Directors formed a committee of independent directors not affiliated with the Investor Group to evaluate any proposal from Trian Partners...
US Pork, Beef Exports Both at Record-Setting Pace to Dominican Republic
U.S. pork exports to Dominican Republic from Jan.-Aug. 2026 increased 23% by volume and 22% in value over year-ago, reaching $212.3 million. U.S. beef exports grew 19% by volume and 37% by value from Jan.-Aug., reaching $121.8 million.
As the top tourist destination in the Caribbean and the seventh-largest export market for U.S. red meat, the Dominican Republic (DR) offers untapped growth potential for U.S. beef and pork. What distinguishes the DR, says Lucia Ruano, USMEF’s representative for Central...
The Retail Rundown: Beef Holds Strong as Fall Meat Promotions Shift
The seasonal shift in retail protein advertising is becoming more apparent as cooler weather settles across parts of the country and consumers turn to heartier meals.
While falling temperatures typically reduce grilling occasions, promotions on cuts like chops, ribs, and steaks continue to offer retailers opportunities to attract shoppers looking to extend the outdoor cooking season or stock up ahead of winter.
USDA retail feature data show continued promotional activity across the major protein categories, although advertising patterns and feature rates varied across the meat case.
Beef promotions held...
USDA Opens New Research Facility to Strengthen Water Efficiency and Productivity in the Southwest
The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Agricultural Research Service (ARS) today [October 27, 2026] announced the opening of the Southwest Watershed Research Center (SWRC) in Tucson, Arizona. This state-of-the-art facility will provide innovative solutions for water, plants, and soil agricultural challenges in the American Southwest.
“America’s farmers and ranchers need practical solutions that help them produce more and make the most of every drop of water,” said Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins. “This new facility gives USDA scientists the tools to tackle the challenges facing producers across the Southwest and turn research into results on...
IFF Identifies 10 Consumer Opportunities Tied to GLP-1 Use
IFF has identified 10 emerging consumer occasions that could help food and beverage manufacturers develop products for people using GLP-1 medications, as users rethink their eating habits and nutritional needs.
The company’s new report, GLP-1 Consumer Moments of Opportunity, examines how consumers are adapting food and beverage choices to different needs throughout the day, moving beyond reduced food intake to consider nutrition, convenience, flavor and enjoyment.
“What GLP-1 users need from food and beverage products depends on the moment, and those needs...
ANALYSIS: US Choice Bone-in Ribs Hovering Near Record High Levels with Rising Demand
Choice bone-in heavy ribs are hovering around record-high levels as demand for the upcoming end-of-year holidays picks up. Compared to 2025, the weekly average price for the week of 10/19/2026 was 9.3% higher, and compared to the 3-year average for the same period, 2026 is roughly 25% higher.
Slaughter remains tighter, and production availability is more limited than in previous years. Demand for bone-in ribs remains largely focused in the spot market, with only 10 trades occurring within the 22-90 day range so far in October...
ANALYSIS: US Imports of Mexican Beef Slow as October Volumes Fall Below 2025 Levels
US imports of Mexican beef showed mixed trends in September, with fresh cuts maintaining their year-on-year strength despite a 6.1% decline from August, while trimmings continued to reflect weaker buying conditions...
Walmart Meal Basket Serves 10 for $35 – $3.50 Per Person(1) – Helping Families Celebrate All Season
Some of Americans’ most memorable holiday moments happen around the table, and this year, Walmart is making it easier and more affordable than ever for families to serve a plentiful and delicious holiday meal. Walmart's highly anticipated Holiday Meal Basket is returning with even more food than last year, available to customers through December 24, 2026 - with the convenience of fast delivery to help families spend less time planning and more time celebrating.
Walmart’s 2026 Holiday...
Shoppers Turn to Deals and Store Brands as Grocery Affordability Worsens
Shoppers are increasingly relying on deals, store brands and lower-priced retailers to manage grocery costs, even as wage growth slightly improves their purchasing power, according to the latest Acosta Group Affordability Tracker.
In August, just 53% of shoppers said they felt comfortable affording groceries and household essentials, down from 68% in January. Meanwhile, 26% said they felt uncomfortable with their ability to afford those necessities, up from 17% at the start of the year. The shift comes as consumers continue to contend with elevated...
USDA Invests Over $325 Million in 42 Projects to Boost Farm Operations & Conserve Natural Resources
U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins announced an investment of over $325 million in 42 projects to help farmers, ranchers, and forest landowners boost their operations and conserve natural resources across the nation through the Regional Conservation Partnership Program (RCPP).
“The Trump USDA is committed to ensuring our farmers have the necessary tools to grow our food, and today's announcement ensures a longer and more prosperous future for our American farmlands,” said Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins. “The Regional Conservation Partnership Program (RCPP) pairs private investment with federal funds to deliver better...
Odeko Acquires Nantel McDiarmid in First Cross-Border Transaction
Odeko, the all-in-one operations and technology partner for over 30,000 local coffee shops, cafes, and other food and beverage businesses nationwide, today announced it has acquired Nantel McDiarmid, a well-established Montreal-based food and beverage distributor with more than 65 years of industry experience, serving retailers, cafés, restaurants, and foodservice businesses across Canada. This marks Odeko's first cross-border acquisition.
With roots dating back to 1960, Nantel McDiarmid has grown from a family-owned dairy distribution business into a recognized player in the Canadian...
ANALYSIS: US Pork Inventories Remain Elevated as Demand Struggles to Absorb Available Supplies
According to the USDA’s latest Cold Storage report, released Friday, October 23, US pork inventories declined modestly during September but remained above year-earlier levels. Total pork stocks reached 427.8 million pounds, down 0.8% month over month (MOM) but up 8.8% year over year (YOY). The monthly decline reflected reductions in belly, trimmings, and variety meat stocks, partially offset by increases in loin, butt, and rib stocks...
ANALYSIS: Slow Pork Demand and Fully Adequate to Ample Supplies Widen the Price Gap With Beef
Pork and beef cutout values have moved in opposite directions in 2026. From the week of January 5 to the week of October 19, Expana weekly data show the pork carcass cutout fell 16.4%, from $0.94/lb to $0.79/lb, while the Choice beef cutout rose 5.2%, from $3.41/lb to $3.59/lb. The price gap widened from $2.47/lb to $2.81/lb, bringing the beef-to-pork cutout ratio...
Affordability and Processing Concerns Reshape Grocery Carts, Report Finds
Perceptions of food processing, ingredient preferences and affordability are shaping US grocery buying decisions, according to FoodMinds’ 2026 Conscious Consumption Index.
The survey of 1,000 US adults responsible for household grocery shopping found that 54% said they started buying or increased purchases of a food or beverage over the past year because it appeared less processed, contained fewer additives or included preferred ingredients. Meanwhile, 46% said they stopped buying or reduced purchases for reasons tied to processing, additives or ingredients they wanted...
Uber Eats Partners with Key Food to Expand Grocery Delivery
Uber Technologies has partnered with Key Food Stores Co-Operative to offer grocery delivery from more than 300 member stores across the Northeast and Florida through the Uber Eats platform.
The partnership expands access to Key Food’s Family of Supermarkets, including Key Food, Food Universe, SuperFresh, The Food Emporium and Food Dynasty. Customers can order fresh produce, meat, seafood, pantry staples and household essentials through the Uber Eats app, with on-demand and scheduled delivery options.
“Key Food’s stores understand the neighborhoods they serve, and...
Nebraska Cattle Producers Get New Direct Access to Overseas Markets
Nebraska cattle producers are expanding their international reach through a new direct-sourcing initiative with Coupang, Inc., a U.S. technology and Fortune 150 retail company. Created in partnership with Omaha-based Nebraska Beef Ltd., the initiative marks Coupang’s first direct-sourcing program for U.S. beef, creating an immediate export pathway for premium Nebraska beef to South Korea — the world’s top market for U.S. meat exports.
“Coupang is proud to launch our first direct-sourcing program for U.S. beef right here in Nebraska,” said Coupang Chief Global Affairs Officer Robert Porter. “Nebraska ranchers produce world-class beef, and Coupang’s direct-sourcing...
FMI Applauds Eighth Circuit Decision Vacating Debit Card Swipe Fee Cap
Today [October 26, 2026], FMI – The Food Industry Association President and CEO Leslie G. Sarasin issued the following statement in response to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Eighth Circuit's decision in Corner Post, Inc. v. Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System, which upheld a lower court ruling vacating the 21-cent cap on debit card swipe fees. FMI previously filed an amicus brief in the Eighth Circuit advocating for this outcome.
"Today's decision is an important victory for grocery customers and food retailers in our long fight against unreasonably high debit card swipe fees. The debit swipe fee cap that the...
USDA to Invest $57 Million to Boost American Meat Processing Capacity and Support US Ranchers
Today [October 26, 2026], Vice President J.D. Vance and U.S. Agriculture Secretary Brooke L. Rollins announced that processers in 40 states are expected to receive $57 million to expand their capacity and create new and better markets through the Meat and Poultry Processing Expansion Program (MPPEP).
“President Trump is focused on putting American ranchers first, and we are committed to achieving this vision at USDA. Today’s announcement to provide investments in small and medium sized meat processors builds on President Trump’s Executive Order...
Chipotle to Bring Back Smoked Brisket as Restaurants Compete for Fall Dining Occasions
Chipotle Mexican Grill will bring back its Smoked Brisket to restaurants in the US and Canada on Nov. 5, reintroducing the limited-time protein as quick-service restaurants look to capture foot traffic with seasonal menu offerings and promotional deals.
The brisket will return during the heart of the US football season, when restaurants often use game days and watch parties to create additional dining occasions. Chipotle has not disclosed how long the brisket will remain on menus, but the company says the item has sold out...
Imperio Distribution LLC Recalls Beef Jerky Products Produced Without the Benefit of Inspection
Imperio Distribution LLC, an Elgin, Ill. establishment, is recalling approximately 946 pounds of ready-to-eat (RTE) beef jerky products that were produced without the benefit of federal inspection and misbranded because of the unauthorized use of a USDA mark of inspection, the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today [October 24, 2026].
The RTE Beef jerky products were packaged January 2026, to October 2026. The following products are subject to recall [view labels]:
ANALYSIS: EU Egg Market Falls Short of Seasonal Expectations
The EU egg market is behaving counter-seasonally, with market participants indicating that the usual October strengthening in demand is yet to materialize. Buying activity remains subdued, raising questions about whether seasonal demand will be strong enough to absorb available supplies and support a market recovery.
The price gap highlights the market's weakness. Cage eggs traded at around €1.58/kg this week, 39% below the €2.58/kg recorded at the same point last year and 12% below the €1.80/kg seen in 2024. Although broadly in line with...
M&S Invests to Make 100% British Beef and Lamb More Affordable as it Backs British Farmers
M&S Food is making high-quality British meat even better value for customers, with a new investment to make selected family favourite British beef, lamb and pork products more affordable. The investment will see prices of Diced British Beef (500g) fall to £6.00 from £7.00; British Lamb Mince (400g) reduce to £5.60 from £6.20 and British Pork Sausages fall to £2.00 from £2.60.
The investment will make it easier for customers to choose British meat, supporting the farmers who produce it. M&S sources only 100% British beef and lamb and is making this...
Secretary Rollins and NASA Administrator Isaacman Sign MOU to Advance USDA Data Modernization Plan
Today [October 24, 2026], U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins and National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) Administrator Jared Isaacman signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and NASA that will strengthen USDA’s data quality and help ensure that American farmers and ranchers benefit from and have access to cutting-edge technologies.
Effective immediately, both Departments will work together to guide cooperation on integrating Earth observation, geospatial analytics, and statistical methodologies in support of agricultural statistics and aligned with USDA’s ongoing data and technology modernization efforts.
“American farmers are the best in the world...
Vital Farms Introduces a Higher Standard for Free-Range Eggs Through Pilot at Select Target Stores
Vital Farms (Nasdaq: VITL) announced today [October 23, 2026] the pilot launch of Vital Farms Free-Range eggs, which are expected to arrive in select Target retail stores across the South and Southeast beginning this week.
This limited test is designed to explore how Vital Farms can reach more households with a high-quality product at a more accessible suggested retail price point of less than $5 per carton, while maintaining its commitment to transparency and animal welfare.
Introducing A New Vital Farms Standard
“Free-range” is one of the most familiar terms in the egg aisle, but the standard itself doesn’t consistently tell consumers what they are actually buying. Compared with many other free-range products, the new Vital Farms Free-Range standard sets a higher bar for animal welfare in several meaningful are
Cattle Saleyard Transactions Rise as Sheep Volumes Decline in 2025–26: NLRS Saleyard Survey
Cattle transactions at Australian saleyards increased by 7.4% in 2025–26, while sheep transactions declined by 11.6%, according to the latest annual Saleyard Survey released by Meat & Livestock Australia (MLA).
The survey, conducted by MLA’s National Livestock Reporting Service (NLRS), recorded more than 5.18 million cattle and 14.5 million sheep transactions across Australian saleyards in the financial year ending 30 June 2026.
Cattle transactions increased by more than 356,000 head compared with 2024–25, while sheep transactions declined by approximately 1.9 million head.
MLA’s NLRS Manager, Stephanie Pitt said the annual survey provided an important snapshot of livestock movements through Australia's saleyards, highlighting significant differences in activity between states and livestock categories...
US Revises Canada Tariff List: Some Produce Packaging Lines Dropped, Cocoa Powder Added, and More
On October 23, US tariff reductions on certain Canadian imports were anticipated after Senator Collins (R-ME) took to social media ahead of an upcoming election.
Later the same day, the tariff schedule was amended for Canadian goods subject to the US 50% Section 338 tariff, according to a White House action. For example, 22 products were deleted from the tariff list: Seaweed and other algae, polypropylene sheets, plastic boxes and polyethylene bags, thin plywood, plastic-coated paperboard, corrugated cartons, paper sacks and bags...
Wayne-Sanderson Farms Releases 2026 Corporate Social Responsibility Report
Wayne-Sanderson Farms, the nation’s third-largest poultry producer, today released its 2026 Corporate Responsibility Report, outlining the company’s strategic commitment and progress across its four core pillars of corporate responsibility: People, Planet, Animals, and Food. Titled The Power of Team, the annual report highlights key operational achievements and the team members driving positive changes throughout the enterprise.
“Responsibility is built every day, on our processing floors, across our family farms, and in our innovation labs,” said Kevin McDaniel, President and CEO of Wayne-Sanderson...
Red Robin Offers Free Burger and Bottomless Steak Fries to Military Heroes This Veterans Day
Red Robin Gourmet Burgers, Inc is expressing its gratitude to all the brave military heroes this Veterans Day by offering a complimentary meal to veterans and active-duty military members on Nov. 11*.
Red Robin is continuing its tradition of honoring veterans and active-duty military members with a complimentary Red's Big Tavern Burger served with Bottomless Steak Fries at participating restaurants across the country. To redeem the offer, guests must present a valid military ID or proof...
Applebees Celebrates Halloween Weekend with Kids Eat Free
No tricks, just treats! This Halloween weekend, October 30th and 31st, Applebee's Grill + Bar is serving up a spooktacular treat for little ghosts, goblins, and trick-or-treaters with a frightfully delicious Kids Eat Free special at participating Potomac Family Dining owned Applebee's locations!
Families looking to scare up some savings can enjoy a Kids Eat Free special on Friday, October 30th and Saturday, October 31st. With the purchase of one adult entrée, families dining in can receive up to two free Kids...
Middle East Market Intelligence Brief: Week Ending October 23, 2026
Iran has warned that renewed US and Israeli strikes would trigger attacks on American forces, energy facilities, and other infrastructure. The warnings come as stalled negotiations and increased US military deployments raise concerns about renewed fighting.
Washington is moving additional forces to the region while reducing some personnel at risk. Iran has also warned it could target US warships and undersea internet cables near the Strait of Hormuz, where recent attacks have already sunk two vessels.
Escalating Houthi activity near the Bab el-Mandeb Strait has heightened concerns over shipping...
Expana's Weekly Top 10
From trade policy and supply chain disruption to shifting retail demand and commodity market pressure, this week’s top 10 stories offer a snapshot of the key developments influencing food, agriculture and commodity trade. Explore Expana’s latest coverage spanning regulation, logistics, proteins, seafood, crop weather and key input markets below.
Find archived Top 10's here.
Trade, Tariffs and Regulation
10. Trump signed an executive order authorizing steep tariffs on Russian goods and major buyers of Russian oil, but a pause clause kept them from taking effect, leaving USTR to monitor conditions as trade talks...
Trump Announces $8 Billion for Farmers and Fishermen to Offset Soaring Diesel Costs
On a campaign swing through Kansas last Monday, President Donald Trump announced a new program to offset high diesel costs incurred by farmers across the country amidst competitive political races in areas like Kansas where voters have not sent a Democrat to Congress since 1932. Trump attributed the plan, called Harvest Fuel Relief program, to Kansas’s incumbent, Republican Sen. Roger Marshall, who won his seat by more than 11 percentage points in 2020 but now is locked in a close race with...
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