Commissioner Wilton Simpson Announces Permanent Protection of Farmland in Putnam and Madison Counties

Today, Florida Commissioner of Agriculture Wilton Simpson announced the permanent protection of nearly 1,450 acres of working Florida agricultural land through the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services’ Rural and Family Lands Protection Program. Rural lands protection easements prevent future development of the land and allow agriculture operations to continue to contribute to Florida’s economy and the production of food, timber, and other resources vital to the prosperity of Florida.

“Florida’s future depends on our ability to protect the land that...

UK: Avian Influenza Housing Measures Lifted

Mandatory housing measures for poultry and flocks of more than 50 captive birds will be lifted from Thursday 9 April in England and Wales, the Deputy Chief Veterinary Officer has confirmed today.

The measures were introduced across the whole of England on 6 November last year to prevent the spread of bird flu. The latest risk assessment supported by the best epidemiological and scientific evidence shows that the risk of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) levels in wild birds and poultry has reduced.

This means poultry and other captive birds will no longer need to be housed and can now be kept outside. The Avian...

Day 34 of Iran War: US-Israel War on Iran Intensifies; Oil Jumps, Tehran Rejects Ceasefire Claims

The United States and Israel stepped up strikes on Iran, with reported casualties and damage across multiple areas, as Iranian forces launched new missile and drone attacks in response.

In an address on Wednesday, US President Donald Trump said Washington had “destroyed the Iranian military” and was nearing its war objectives. Trump also said Tehran had sought a ceasefire, a claim Iranian officials denied...

ANALYSIS: Australia’s Q1 2026 Beef Exports Surge 17.4% YOY as Safeguard Race Intensifies

Australia’s beef exports surged in the first quarter of 2026, with year-to-date (YTD) shipments totaling 365,199 metric tons (MT), according to the latest data from the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF).

Underpinned by robust production and a continuation of the strong momentum seen in 2025, outbound shipments rose a solid 17.4% year-on-year (YOY). This momentum was fueled by a "safeguard rush" to China and Korea and an ongoing supply vacuum in the United States (US).

This quarterly performance was capped by...

ANALYSIS: Turkey Production Shows 3.6% Year-to-Date Gain Despite Record Low January Harvest

January’s turkey headcount came in at the lowest value ever recorded, but a much less aggressive month-over-month (MOM) decline than what is typically seen has helped bring year-to-date (YTD) production above that of last year.

This year, the number of turkeys harvested only fell 1.7% from January to February, compared to a 5-year average MOM decline of 6.5%. Last year, the headcount fell 14.5% from January...

ANALYSIS: Year-to-Date Broiler Production Continues to Skew Heavier Across Weight Classes

Through the week ending March 21st, U.S. broiler production remains firmly above year-ago levels, with total headcount now surpassing 2.04 billion, a 3.63% increase compared to 2025. While overall supply levels continue to expand, the distribution across weight classes further highlights a pronounced shift toward the heavier end of the scale.

Headcount within the smallest weight category (4.25 lbs. & down) continues to contract, declining 6.67% year over year to 304.8 million...

Burger King to Hire 60,000 as Restaurant Upgrades Boost Traffic 

Burger King is on the hunt for talent. The company announced it is looking to fill up to 60,000 positions across its roughly 6,500 restaurants, from entry-level roles to management. The chain has long been one of America’s largest employers.

According to the announcement, most of the brand’s restaurants are owned and operated by independent franchisees, many of them family-owned.

Recent efforts to modernize restaurants and streamline operations have driven notable increases in traffic, creating a need for...

McDonald's Expands McValue Menu with Under $3 Menu and Breakfast Meal Deals

McDonald's is expanding its McValue menu, including an Under $3 Menu and a $4 Breakfast Meal Deal, as an industry-focused response to rising costs, giving operators flexible offers to protect traffic and margins while still delivering value.

"For generations, McDonald's has been committed to delivering great value our fans can count on," said Alyssa Buetikofer, Chief Marketing and Customer Experience Officer, McDonald's USA. "As our customers' expectations evolve, we're making it easier for them...

America's Egg Farmers Commit $1 Million to Put Protein-Packed Eggs at the Center of School Breakfast

American Egg Board joins USDA Secretary Rollins, HHS Secretary Kennedy and White House Senior Advisor Calley Means to advance real food, real protein for America's children.

In the days ahead of Easter, U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins gathered senior federal leaders including U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. and White House Senior Advisor Calley Means as well as agricultural stakeholders at the U.S. Department of Agriculture to discuss the critical role eggs play in feeding America's children a nutritious breakfast. The American Egg Board (AEB)...

BJ’s Wholesale Club Names Stephanie Reibling Executive Vice President, Chief Merchandising Officer

BJ’s Wholesale Club today announced that Stephanie Reibling has been named Executive Vice President, Chief Merchandising Officer, effective immediately.

Reibling will lead the company’s merchandising organization, playing a critical role in driving BJ’s merchandising transformation and delivering continued growth across categories. Reibling will report to Paul Cichocki, EVP, Chief Commercial Officer.

“We’re thrilled to welcome Stephanie to BJ’s Wholesale Club,” Cichocki said. “Her experience in retail and merchandising will be invaluable as we evolve our assortment, build BJ's own brands and advance...

FSIS Issues Health Alert For Frozen, Dinosaur-Shaped, RTE Chicken Nuggets Due To Traces of Lead

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) is issuing a public health alert for frozen, dinosaur-shaped, ready-to-eat chicken nuggets that may be contaminated with unsafe levels of lead. A recall was not requested because the products are no longer available for purchase. However, FSIS is concerned that some product may still be in consumers’ freezers.

The chicken nuggets were produced on Feb. 10, 2026. The following product is subject to the public health alert...

UNFI Teamsters Unanimously Authorize Strike

More than 200 warehouse workers at United Natural Foods Inc. (UNFI) have voted by a 100 percent margin to authorize a strike if the company fails to deliver a fair contract and immediately cease its unfair labor practices. The group is demanding an agreement that meets or exceeds the standard already secured by thousands of UNFI Teamsters nationwide.

“We organized as Teamsters to win a contract that respects the work we do,” said Vedjo Williamceau, a warehouse worker and member of Teamsters Local 769. “The company’s unfair labor practices and refusal to negotiate fair terms...

Cargill Wins 2026 BIG Artificial Intelligence Excellence Award

Cargill has been named a winner in the 2026 BIG AI Awards, presented by the Business Intelligence Group, recognizing the company’s leadership and innovation in applying artificial intelligence to transform the global food and agriculture system.

The award highlights Cargill’s integration of artificial intelligence across its value chain from on-farm decision tools to supply chain optimization and customer co-creation, all designed to deliver measurable impact for producers, customers and consumers worldwide...

Joint Statement by the International Energy Agency, International Monetary Fund, & World Bank Group

The Heads of the International Energy Agency, International Monetary Fund, and World Bank Group have agreed to form a coordination group to maximize their institutions’ response to the energy and economic impacts of the war in the Middle East. They issued the following joint statement:

The Middle East war has caused major disruptions to lives and livelihoods in the region and triggered one of the largest supply shortages in global energy market history. The impact is substantial, global, and highly asymmetric, disproportionately affecting energy importers, in particular...

Day 33 of Iran War: US, Israel Intensify Strikes on Iran Amid Diplomatic Deadlock

US and Israeli airstrikes have continued across Iran, targeting industrial and civilian infrastructure, including steel plants and pharmaceutical factories, according to Iranian state media and officials.

US President Donald Trump, who is scheduled to deliver a White House address this evening, said the war could be wrapped up within two to three weeks even without a formal agreement. He warned he might reconsider America’s commitments to NATO if European allies do not play a larger role in countering Iran’s blockade of the Strait of Hormuz...

ANALYSIS: US Imports of Mexican Beef Trend Higher

US imports of Mexican beef have trended higher in recent weeks, supported by a combination of supply and demad side factors. Increased buying interest has been driven primarily by tighter availability of Non‑roll and Select graded material in the US market, as reduced slaughter levels have constrained supply. At the same time, a weaker Mexican peso has improved export incentives, encouraging Mexican sellers to remain active in the export market. Additional support has been noted on the supply side in Mexico, where market participants...

ANALYSIS: Unusual Market Shift 2026 Select Cutout Trades Above Choice

The data shows a brief and unusual inversion in the typical relationship between the USDA Choice and Select beef cutout values. At the same time, on March 25 and 26, the Expana Choice cutout maintained a premium over Select, holding at 3.35% on March 25 and 3.33% on March 26. Under normal market conditions, the USDA Choice cutout trades at a premium to the USDA Select cutout, reflecting higher quality and stronger demand. However, during the period from March 23 to...

The Retail Rundown: Ham Leads the Holiday Table as Promotions Surge

During Easter week, pork dominates the spotlight, accounting for 30% of all protein promotions. Within this category, ham stands out as the clear leader, making up 37% of all pork features and the highest share in the segment. Promotional activity has surged dramatically, with approximately 13,583 ham-related opportunities this week, a sharp increase from about 1,300 the week prior.

Data from Expana’s US Easter Index shows that wholesale prices for key holiday items have generally declined in 2026. The overall index dropped about 7% year-over-year (YOY)...

Cal-Maine Foods Welcomes Dudley D. Wooley to Board of Directors

Cal-Maine Foods, Inc. (NASDAQ: CALM), the largest egg company in the United States and a leading player in the egg-based food industry, today announced the appointment of Dudley D. Wooley to its Board of Directors. Mr. Wooley brings extensive leadership experience in risk management, business strategy, and governance, further strengthening the Board’s depth of expertise as the Company continues executing its long-term growth strategy.

Mr. Wooley currently serves as Chief Executive Officer of Ross & Yerger Insurance, Inc., a super-regional, employee-owned independent insurance agency headquartered in Jackson, Mississippi. With more than three decades at the firm, he has played a central role in shaping its growth, leadership, and long-term...

Yum! Brands Appoints Former Marriott International CFO Kathleen (Leeny) K. Oberg to Board

Yum! Brands, Inc. (NYSE: YUM) today announced the appointment of Kathleen (Leeny) K. Oberg, former Chief Financial Officer and Executive Vice President, Development of Marriott International, Inc., to its Board of Directors, effective April 1, 2026.

“Leeny is a highly accomplished leader with deep global experience and a strong track record of driving disciplined growth,” said Brian Cornell, non-executive chairman of the Yum! Brands Board of Directors. “Her expertise and perspective will be a strong addition to our board and will help guide our...

Private-Label Brands Surge Across US and Global Markets, Circana Reports

According to two new reports from Circana, private-label brands are rapidly expanding across CPG and FMCG markets, led by food and beverage in the US, where private label holds a 24% value share in those aisles. The data shows the sector has evolved into a strategic growth driver for retailers and has built strong momentum recently.

Circana’s global research, Category Transformation or Simply Competition: A Global Private Label Perspective, explores regional approaches to private brands across the European Union, Australia, and the...

Princes Group Warns of Price Pressures From Middle East Tensions

UK food giant Princes Group is bracing for potential cost increases linked to Middle East geopolitical tensions, particularly around Iran, as the company monitors impacts on energy and raw material markets following its strong 2025 performance.

The Liverpool-based company, which owns brands including Princes, Napolina, and Branston, highlighted ongoing uncertainty in international markets stemming from Middle East conflicts in its preliminary results released Monday. Management specifically cited "the situation in Iran" as a key concern for commodity price volatility...

Poultry Industry Safety Recognition Award Applications Being Accepted

The Joint Poultry Industry Safety Award Program is now accepting applications from poultry industry facilities that have demonstrated exceptional safety programs. This award program is open to members of the National Chicken Council (NCC), National Turkey Federation (NTF), and U.S. Poultry & Egg Association (USPOULTRY). Eligible facilities include poultry processing plants, further processing facilities, egg processing plants, hatcheries, feed mills, animal support services and rendering facilities. To qualify, applicants must have implemented innovative and effective safety programs as well as have maintained injury and illness rates below the industry average for three consecutive years.

According to the most recent data from the Bureau of...

NCBA and PLC Participate in Grazing Roundtable, MOU Signing

Today, public lands ranchers joined Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins and Interior Secretary Doug Burgum, as the secretaries signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to launch their Grazing Action Plan.

National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) and Public Lands Council (PLC) leaders and members then participated in a roundtable discussing cooperative work to address longstanding challenges for federal lands grazing permittees. PLC President Tim Canterbury, PLC Past President Mark Roeber, and Industry Issues Committee Chairman Nate Thomson were joined by NCBA President-elect Kim Brackett, American National CattleWomen (ANCW)...

Grazing Agreement Cuts Red Tape for America’s Ranchers

American Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall commented today on a memorandum of understanding between USDA and the Department of the Interior to strengthen public lands grazing and the partnership between ranchers and the agencies.

“Farmers and ranchers appreciate USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins and Department of the Interior Secretary Doug Burgum for their work to improve access to public lands for grazing. Public lands offer quality grazing grounds for livestock, which in turn reduces wildfire risk and contributes to the vitality of rural communities across the West.

“The MOU will reduce delays...

USDA, DOI Move to Boost Support for American Ranchers, Help Lower Prices for Consumers

U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Secretary Brooke L. Rollins and U.S. Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum today announced new actions aimed at boosting the supply of American born, raised, and harvested beef by supporting American ranchers with the signing of a new Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) that will strengthen coordination, cut bureaucratic red tape, and deliver immediate, tangible support for America’s farmers and ranchers who rely on public lands.

Building on the USDA’s recently released Grazing Action Plan, the agreement formalizes collaboration between the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Forest Service (FS) and the...

Day 32 of Iran War: US–Israel Strikes Continue Across Iran, Trump Issues New Threats

US and Israeli forces carried out fresh air strikes across Iran on Tuesday as the war entered its 32nd day.

US President Donald Trump warned that Washington might strike Iran’s key energy infrastructure, including its main oil export hub at Kharg Island, oil wells, and power plants, if no deal is reached and the Strait of Hormuz remains closed.

Following Trump's comments, Iran set ablaze a Kuwait‑flagged crude oil tanker off Dubai. The fire was extinguished with no reported oil spill or crew injuries...

KFC Expands Value Platform with Tiered Box Feasts 

While consumers continue to face rising living costs, KFC is leaning into a new promotion designed to drive traffic and reinforce value. As part of its Value Feast lineup, the brand is introducing three new Box Feasts at distinct price points, giving consumers more ways to enjoy a complete meal at an accessible price:

• $7 Box Feast: 1 KFC Snacker, 5pc Nuggets, 3oz Fries, Medium Drink
• $9 Box Feast: 2 KFC Snackers, 5pc Nuggets, 3oz Fries, Medium Drink
• $11 Box Feast: 1 Chicken...

ANALYSIS: Weak Yen Sinks Japan’s Feb 2026 Beef Imports; US Reclaims Top Share

Japan’s beef imports fell to a 12-month low of 30,712 metric tons (MT) in February, according to the Trade Statistics of Japan.

This represented a sharp 22.8% month-on-month (MOM) drop for the world’s third-largest beef buyer as a punishingly weak yen stifled fresh procurement.

Throughout late Q4 2025 and January, the yen consistently tested the Japanese yen (JPY) 150-155 range, inflating the landed price of imported beef and stifling fresh procurement patterns...

ANALYSIS: Newcastle Disease Re-Emerges in Germany After Nearly 30 Years

Newcastle disease (ND) has re-emerged in Germany after an interval of nearly three decades, with the first outbreaks reported in mid-February 2026. As of March 4, a total of 10 cases have been confirmed.

According to German media reports, the initial outbreak occurred in the Oder-Spree district of Brandenburg, near the Polish border, affecting a flock of approximately 23,000 slaughter turkeys. Subsequent outbreaks were reported on February 27, including cases on a farm with nearly 40,000 laying hens in the Erding district and in a flock of 30,000 broiler chickens in the Mühldorf district, Bavaria...

Cargill Expands Port Klang Plant with New Specialty Fats Production Line

Cargill is expanding its edible oil plant in Port Klang, Malaysia with a new specialty fats production line, part of a multi‑million‑dollar investment aimed at broadening its global specialty‑fats portfolio and beefing up food solutions for customers in chocolate, bakery and dairy.

The upgraded facility will use advanced palm‑oil processes to make a wide range of cocoa butter equivalents, low‑trans‑fat cocoa butter replacers and specialty fats for applications from chocolate confectionery and fillings to frying and...

ALDI US Debuts New Nationwide Digital Experience Using Instacart's Enterprise Technology

Instacart, the leading grocery technology company in North America, and ALDI U.S., America's fastest-growing grocer, today launched a redesigned ALDI U.S. website, aldi.us, and mobile app. The enhanced experience offers a more seamless, personalized way for customers to shop their favorite ALDI products online, powered by Instacart's Storefront Pro enterprise commerce platform and fulfillment solutions. Instacart first began powering fulfillment for ALDI U.S. in 2019, and is now the retailer's exclusive fulfillment partner across their website and app...

UK Protein Producer Hilton Foods Refocuses on Meat as Seafood Unit Struggles

Hilton Food Group is restructuring its seafood operations following a strategic review that revealed the division's limited alignment with the company's core meat processing capabilities, according to the UK processor's 2025 annual results.

The company's UK seafood business, Seachill, became "marginally loss-making at an adjusted operating profit level in 2025," contributing to a 17.2% decline in UK & Ireland adjusted operating profit to £37.5 million. The performance deterioration was driven primarily by volume reductions as inflation pressures affected demand and profitability...

Brooke Rollins Visits North Carolina Egg Farm Providing Eggs for 2026 White House Easter Egg Roll

American Egg Board and Braswell Family Farms Provide Inside Look at How Eggs Get from Farm to the South Lawn of the White House and Opportunity to Meet with North Carolina Farmers

U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins today [March 30, 2026] toured Braswell Family Farms, a fourth-generation, family-owned egg farm supplying the eggs for the 2026 White House Easter Egg Roll on behalf of America’s egg farmers.

Hosted by the American Egg Board in partnership with the Braswell family, the visit...

US Beef Returns to Australia After 23-Year Absence

A launch event with USTR, the U.S. Embassy and the Foreign Agricultural Service commemorates the reopening of the Australian market to U.S. beef.

For more than two decades, following the first detected case of Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy in the U.S., the beef industry and the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) have worked diligently to regain access to the Australian market. In 2025, U.S. beef and beef products were officially declared eligible for importation into Australia — a significant milestone for the U.S. beef industry.

To commemorate and publicize this renewed...

Ag Innovation Challenge Opens: $100K for Top Entrepreneur

The American Farm Bureau Federation, in partnership with Farm Credit, is accepting online applications from entrepreneurs for the 2027 Farm Bureau Ag Innovation Challenge through June 5. Now in its 13th year, this national business competition showcases U.S. startup companies developing innovative solutions to challenges faced by America’s farmers, ranchers and rural communities.

The overall winner of the competition will receive $100,000 in startup funds, the runner-up will be awarded $25,000 and two additional business owners who advance to the final four round will receive $10,000...

Day 31 of Iran War: US-Israeli Strikes Hit Tehran, Target Power Infrastructure; Oil Rises

Overnight US-Israeli strikes hit Tehran and other cities, with power infrastructure in the Iranian capital among the targets. The attacks triggered a blackout in Tehran, which Iranian authorities said has since been restored.

Iran’s parliament speaker, Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, said the United States was sending mixed signals, raising the prospect of negotiations while preparing for a possible ground invasion.

Meanwhile, Pakistan’s Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar said regional talks on Sunday explored ways to bring a swift end to the war, including the possibility of...

ANALYSIS: Turkey Pricing Influences Demand Shifts and Cold Storage Accumulation

Total cold storage of turkeys was down year-over-year in February but showed a greater month-over-month increase compared to the 5-year average...

ANALYSIS: Year-to-Date Broiler Production Continues to Skew Heavier Across Weight Classes

Through the week ending March 21st, U.S. broiler production remains firmly above year-ago levels, with total headcount now surpassing 2.04 billion, a 3.63% increase compared to 2025...

ANALYSIS: US Cage-Free Market Slides on Ample Supply as Easter Demand Fades 

The US cage-free market remains under pressure, declining nearly 17% so far this week as demand has eased considerably. This downturn comes just ahead of Easter, a period that typically supports strong movement, though retailer buying patterns this year...

Retailers and Platforms Unveil Fuel Relief for Consumers and Drivers

According to Expana’s report Friday on the Middle East conflict, the ongoing closure of the Strait of Hormuz continues to disrupt the movement of oil and fertilizer, driving up energy costs worldwide. 

In response, some companies are rolling out temporary measures intended to help consumers and workers manage higher fuel costs.

Subway, for example, will offer Sub Club members a free footlong sandwich with the purchase of another footlong from April 1 through April 28 at participating locations.

The deal is valid for orders placed...

Wendy's Revamps Spicy Chicken with Panko Crunch and New Potato Bun

Wendy’s is rolling out an upgraded Spicy Chicken Sandwich nationwide, updating a menu staple the chain says helped define the category. The refreshed sandwich features a new marinade designed to deliver a juicier bite and a crispy panko-style breading blended with nine spices for a more pronounced heat.

"The Wendy's Spicy Chicken Sandwich is iconic, and we saw an opportunity to make the best spicy chicken sandwich in the category even better," said Lindsay Radkoski, US Chief Marketing Officer, The...

Zaxbys New Chief Financial Officer Michael Dixon

Saucy chicken chain Zaxbys® announced the appointment of Michael Dixon as its new Chief Financial Officer beginning March 30. Dixon will serve as a key member of Zaxbys executive leadership team reporting to Bernard Acoca, Chief Executive Officer at Zaxbys and guiding Zaxbys through the company's nationwide expansion.

"Mike's demonstrated success in accelerating and scaling financial performance across QSR organizations, maximizing unit economics, and managing complex financial environments makes him a perfect fit for Zaxbys next chapter," said Bernard Acoca, Zaxbys CEO. "As Zaxbys continues the...

Papa Johns Turns Up the Heat on Menu Innovation with Bold New Launch: Oven‑Toasted Sandwiches

Papa Johns is raising the bar on sandwich flavor with the debut of its new Oven‑Toasted Sandwiches, a crave‑worthy lineup crafted to bring the brand’s signature “better ingredients” promise into an exciting new category. As Papa Johns continues its evolution beyond pizza, this launch marks a defining step, introducing sandwiches that don’t just compete in the category, but aim to redefine it with bigger flavor, higher-quality ingredients, and a more indulgent experience.

“This launch...

Lifetime Achievement Award to Honour Christy Puffenbarger at Executive Conference

This April, Christy Puffenbarger will receive the Lifetime Achievement Award at the 50th edition of the Executive Conference at the Wynn, Las Vegas. 

The moment coincides with two milestones: the conference’s 50th edition, and Christy becoming the first woman to chair the National Turkey Federation in its 80-year history. 

The Lifetime Achievement Award is given to an individual who has had a multi-faceted and distinguished career in the food industry, while supporting and advocating for others in the sector. Few careers fit that description more completely than Puffenbarger’s...

Sysco to Acquire Jetro Restaurant Depot for $29.1 Billion

Sysco, the largest broadline food distributor in the US, has agreed to acquire Jetro Restaurant Depot, a leading cash-and-carry food wholesaler, for $29.1 billion, a deal the companies described as "transformative" for both organizations.

The March 30 announcement will see Sysco enter the "high-margin, growing, and resilient" cash-and-carry sector, creating a combined entity with nearly $100 billion in annual revenue and significant expansion opportunities.

Restaurant Depot operates 166 warehouse stores across 35 states, serving over 725,000 independent restaurants...

MLA Opens Expressions of Interest and Tender for New BulkUp Producer Program

Meat & Livestock Australia (MLA) has opened the BulkUp Expressions of Interest and Tender process, inviting delivery partners and producer groups across Australia to participate in a major new initiative designed to focus on feedbase utilisation and thereby improving productivity and profitability in the red meat industry.

BulkUp is a nationally available and locally delivered program that combines peer to peer learning, professional coaching and technical training within a long term supported learning program...

USDA Promotes New, Voluntary “Product of USA” Label

WHAT HAPPENED: USDA on Tuesday announced the launch of a national public awareness campaign to inform meat, poultry, and egg producers of the “Product of USA” voluntary labeling standard which went into effect on January 1, 2026, and intends to increase consumer understanding of what the label means. The claim is voluntary and ends the prior practice which allowed imported products to carry the claim after minimal processing and strengthens consumer confidence by aligning with what Americans expect and demand.

WHY IT MATTERS: The new labels follow updated USDA rules governing which products can carry the designation. Previously, items that were merely packaged or processed in the U.S. could legally use the label. In 2024, USDA revised the...

Farm Bureau Applauds President’s Call to Support Farmers

American Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall commented today on President Trump’s call on Congress to pass a farm bill and to provide market relief for America’s farmers and ranchers.

“Farm Bureau thanks President Trump for outlining action to deliver regulatory relief and for advocating for Congress to deliver much-needed certainty for farmers and ranchers working on behalf of all of America’s families.

“Farmers need a lifeline to make it through this growing season, and we appreciate the president’s support for including emergency assistance in the next funding bill. His call...

NCBA Joins White House to Celebrate Working Farm and Ranch Families

Today, leaders and members of the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) joined a White House event celebrating the Working Families Tax Cuts included in the One Big Beautiful Bill. NCBA played a key role in advancing this legislation, advocating for its passage and building on years of effort to expand the estate tax exemption, also known as the Death Tax, to help preserve family-owned cattle operations. “One of NCBA’s longest standing priorities was expanding the Death Tax exemption and delivering much needed tax relief to rural...

Expana's Weekly Top 10: The Impact of Middle East Tensions on Global Markets

As global events continue to reshape markets and industries, our weely recap, Expana's Weekly Top 10, brings you the most recent developments from the past seven days, all reported by Expana's team of global correspondents and journalists. 

From the Middle East conflict disrupting energy, fertilizer, and chemical supply chains, to seafood and seasonal retail trends making waves in consumer markets, Expana’s team has curated the top stories shaping industries around the world. Below are this week’s ten must-read headlines...

Day 28 of Iran War: Trump Delays Attacks on Iranian Energy Infrastructure

US President Donald Trump has delayed planned strikes on Iran’s energy infrastructure by 10 days until April 6, saying talks with Tehran are “going very well,” despite Iranian officials rejecting the US proposal as unfair.

US and Israeli forces continued strikes on Iranian cities, while Iran fired retaliatory missiles and drones at Israel and Gulf states.

Pakistan said it was relaying messages between Washington and Tehran, with Türkiye and Egypt also supporting mediation efforts as diplomatic activity intensifies to prevent a broader regional conflict.

Officials said mediators were...

ANALYSIS: AU & NZ Lamb Imports into US, Lower on Tight Supply 

Imported lamb volumes, both fresh and frozen, are trending lower in 2026 compared to prior years, with the decline more pronounced in fresh product. Fresh imports are down approximately 22.3% year over year (YOY), while frozen imports are down 14.3% YOY. A clear softening in weekly fresh volumes began in mid-February and has extended through March, with several weeks falling materially below the three-year average, indicating supply...

ANALYSIS: US Mid Atlantic Beef Cold Storage Figure Nears 10 Year Low for February

Looking at the Middle Atlantic region, which includes Philadelphia, a major beef importing port, boneless beef stocks fell by 4,994 metric tons (MT) month-over-month, bringing the total for that region to 111,599 MT. Apart from 2018, this is the lowest February boneless beef stocks in the Mid Atlantic region in 10 years. In 2018, the inflection point was 107,858 MT.

Across the US, total boneless beef stocks continue...

Legal Challenges, Changing Demand and Wage Pressures in Foodservice

The foodservice industry continues to navigate a complex mix of legal scrutiny, evolving consumer preferences and ongoing labor challenges. Recent lawsuits targeting major brands underscore heightened expectations around transparency and worker protections, while new data reveals how even small factors like cooking oil are increasingly shaping dining decisions, particularly among younger consumers.

At the same time, global traffic trends show cautious but steady recovery, with quick-service restaurants leading the way despite economic headwinds. Layered onto this are mounting wage debates...

The Americas Strengthen Surveillance Against Avian Influenza

Professionals from official veterinary services from 15 countries in the Americas participated in the first in-person workshop of the Latin America Edition 2025/2026 of the Regional Program for the Systematic Education of Veterinary Services (ProgRESSVet), focused on strengthening epidemiological surveillance and the early detection of avian influenza in the region.

The meeting took place in Panama City and brought together professionals who have been participating in the virtual phase of the program since March 2025. The initiative is coordinated by the Center for Animal Health and Food Safety (CAHFS) at the...

Hormel Foods Announces Retirement of Richard Carlson, VP of Global Food Safety & Quality Management

Hormel Foods Corporation (NYSE: HRL), a Fortune 500 global branded food company, today announced that Richard Carlson, vice president of global food safety and quality management, will be retiring after a 35-year career with the company.

Jeremiah Johnson, a 20-year company veteran and director of food safety management, will succeed Carlson as vice president of global food safety and quality management...

Tighter Supply Expected as National Sheep Flock Set to Decline in 2026: MLA Industry Projections

Australia’s sheep industry is entering a lower supply phase in 2026, with Meat & Livestock Australia’s (MLA) latest Australian Sheep Industry Projections forecasting a further decline in flock numbers after several years of elevated turnoff and challenging seasonal conditions.
 
The national sheep flock is estimated to fall 2.7% to 67.1 million head by 30 June 2026, reflecting the cumulative impact of below average rainfall across key southern production regions including Victoria, South Australia, Tasmania and southern New South Wales. While some late summer rainfall has provided short term relief, soil moisture...

From Thai Curry to Harissa Salmon, Alison Brie Curates HelloFresh's New Supper Club Collection

Meal-kit service HelloFresh has partnered with Alison Brie in its latest promotion, HelloFresh Supper Club. This launch aims to reignite communal dining and inspire consumers to gather around the dinner table to share a meal.

"Between filming, writing, and producing, my weeks are packed — but sitting down to cook and eat with the people I love is something I'll always make time for," said Alison Brie. “I curated this new menu around dishes I genuinely love — bright Mediterranean...

Day 27 of Iran War: Trump Asserts Talks Underway as War Continues

The US-Israeli war on Iran shows no sign of abating, with attacks growing more intense even as US President Donald Trump asserts that peace talks are underway, a claim Tehran has denied.

Trump has asserted that Iranian leaders want a deal but fear internal backlash, and the White House has warned it is prepared to “unleash hell” if Iran refuses a resolution.

Markets continue to react. Oil prices are climbing once more amid fading hopes of de-escalation, while analysts warn the war could disrupt global...

Australia Hits 50% of China's Beef Safeguard Quota in Just 12 Weeks 

Australian beef imports have reached 50% of their annual safeguard quota for 2026 as of March 26, according to the latest announcement from China's Ministry of Commerce (MOFCOM) late on Thursday.  

This year's trajectory is well ahead of 2025, hitting the halfway mark just 85 days into the calendar year. 

This rapid exhaustion of the Special Agricultural Safeguard (SSG) quota validates Expana’s latest report of an unprecedented "dash for the door" by exporters, driven by the need to land product before the hefty 55% levy effectively closes the...

Coast to Coast! Dickey’s Barbecue Pit Solidifies Major Restaurant Deals in Q1 

Raise a piece of Texas toast as Dickey’s grows coast to coast! Dickey’s Barbecue Pit, the barbecue legend celebrating 85 years of slow-smoked tradition is adding new locations across the U.S. as it closes out the first quarter. Big Yellow Cup fans rejoice as Dickey’s plans new restaurant openings on the horizon for Blakely, Georgia; Thibodaux, Louisiana; Secaucus, New Jersey; and additional locations in Alberta and Edmonton, Canada, bringing its Legit. Texas. Barbecue.™ to more communities.

“These new partnerships signal the strength of our family’s legacy and the continued demand for championship style barbecue...

ANALYSIS: February Chicken Cold Storage Closes Month Under Mixed Backdrop

The most recent cold storage data for February reflects a mixed picture for the chicken market, with some categories showing an uptick in frozen inventory levels, while others got cleared from the “shelves” at an accelerated rate. Overall, total chicken stocks were essentially flat month-over-month (MOM), down just 0.3%, and slightly below year-ago levels at -1.7% year-over-year (YOY).

Coming in 22.1% above year-ago levels, whole bird inventories continue to make significant upward progress, at least...

ANALYSIS: EU Barn Egg Prices Hit Record Highs on Structural Supply Tightness

Barn egg prices across the EU climbed to unprecedented levels in last week’s assessments, underpinned by sustained supply-side constraints and seasonal demand ahead of Easter. Prices for barn eggs averaged 2.95 €/kg, marking a historic high and maintaining a significant premium of around 26% over cage eggs.

This price divergence reflects increasingly structural dynamics within the egg market. A growing number of retailers are transitioning away from cage eggs in favor of cage-free sourcing policies. While this shift supports higher-value segments, it is also tightening the availability of barn eggs, particularly for the...

ANALYSIS: Australia’s Mar 2026 Fever Pitch Beef Rush as China Safeguard Gap Narrows

Australia is on track to ship its largest monthly volume of beef to China on record this March, as exporters race against the clock to beat a looming safeguard quota.

According to the latest data from the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF), cumulative monthly beef and veal exports to "Other Asia", a category dominated by China, reached 33,115 metric tons (MT) by March 23.

Based on the current pace of shipments, Expana’s in-house estimations put the final March figure at 45,533 MT...

ANALYSIS: Global HPAI Disruptions Boost US Turkey Export Competitiveness Despite Price Premiums

Total turkey exports from the US in January showed a 33.6% increase in volume from last year and a 9.8% month-over-month (MOM) increase, despite a 5-year average decline in volume from December to January of 12.7%. While pricing for most US turkey items was significantly higher this year than last year, a number of other countries suffered outbreaks of HPAI, limiting global competition. At the same time, outbreaks of HPAI within turkey flocks in the US for January were significantly lower than they were...

FSIS Issues Public Health Alert for Beef and Pork Products Produced Without Benefit of Inspection

The U.S. Department of Agriculture's Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) is issuing a public health alert for various raw beef and pork products that were produced without the benefit of federal inspection and may bear a false mark of inspection. Food produced without inspection may contain undeclared allergens, harmful bacteria, or other contaminants that put consumer health and safety at risk. FSIS is continuing to investigate and may add additional products to this alert as more information is obtained.

The beef and pork items were produced from April 2024 through March 2026. The following products subject to the public health alert are:

MLA: What’s Ahead for the Cattle Market?

Record production forecast as supply stays elevated

Australia’s cattle sector is set for another year of high throughput. Meat & Livestock Australia’s (MLA) 2026 Cattle Industry Projections is pointing to higher slaughter, record beef production and continued export strength.

The report also notes that the conflict involving Iran has added a layer of uncertainty to the 2026 outlook. While it is too early to assess the full implications for the cattle sector, any prolonged disruption could affect the industry’s operating environment through higher input costs, freight pressure and broader supply chain risks....

Grassley, Smith Introduce Legislation to Study Impact of Concentration in Livestock Industry

Senate Agriculture Committee members Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) and Tina Smith (D-Minn.) introduced the Livestock Consolidation Research Act, bipartisan legislation to support research into the economic impact of livestock market consolidation on farmers, ranchers and consumers.

“Consolidation in the meat and poultry industry impacts Iowa producers and consumers alike, and right now, they’re feeling the squeeze. The current patchwork of available data...