Chick-fil-A Brings Chicken & Waffles, S’mores Offerings Nationwide

Chick-fil-A is bringing its Chicken & Waffles Sandwiches to restaurants nationwide beginning Aug. 24, expanding on a limited-time test of the offering in select markets in 2025.

The launch also introduces two seasonal beverages: the S’mores Milkshake and S’mores Frosted Coffee. The three items are part of Chick-fil-A’s yearlong "Newstalgia"-inspired menu strategy, which marks the brand’s 80-year heritage by pairing familiar favorites with new twists.

"In this year of Newstalgia-inspired celebrations, we wanted to bring something unique this fall...

Hormel® Chili and Omaha Steaks® Introduce Co-Branded Beef Chili

Hormel® Chili and Omaha Steaks® have introduced a co-branded 100% Natural Beef Chili with Beans, combining beef, beans and vegetables in a ready-to-serve format. The companies say the recipe was jointly developed with a focus on the beef, texture, seasoning and overall flavor profile, targeting consumers seeking a convenient chili with a more substantial beef component.

“Working with Omaha Steaks allowed us to approach every element of this recipe through a more premium lens, particularly the quality, texture and prominence of the beef,” said Brett Ament, brand manager at Hormel Foods...

Chipotle Expands Middle East Footprint With Saudi Arabia Debut

Chipotle Mexican Grill is set to open its first restaurant in Saudi Arabia later this month at Sidra in Riyadh, marking the company’s entry into the Kingdom.

The location will operate in partnership with Alshaya Group and will offer Chipotle’s menu of burritos, bowls, tacos, quesadillas, and salads, with customizable proteins, rice, beans, salsas, and toppings.

The opening builds on Chipotle’s growing Middle East presence, with 16 restaurants opened across the United Arab Emirates, Kuwait, and Qatar since 2024.

The Riyadh location represents another step in the company’s broader international expansion strategy.

Last month, Chipotle raised its 2026 comparable sales forecast to low single-digit growth after second-quarter same-store sales rose 2.2%, beating expectations...

ANALYSIS: Brazilian Beef Shipments to Mexico Approach 79% of Annual Duty-Free Quota

Brazil's beef exports to Mexico reached 12,364 metric tons in July 2026, up 4.4% from June and consistent with the higher volumes typically observed during the June-July period. However, shipments were 20.6% below July 2025. Cumulative exports from January through July totaled 55,244 metric tons, approximately 17.7% below the same period last year.

The year-over-year difference partly reflects the contrasting trade conditions between the two periods. In 2025, duty-free access allowed purchases to accumulate at a faster pace...

ANALYSIS: Turkey Headcount Rises, Demand Questions Remain

Through the week ending August 1, the turkey production picture continues to show gradual improvement in bird numbers, although overall headcount remains historically low. Year to date slaughter stands at roughly 105.2 million head, 2.7% above the same period in 2025, but still 3.8% below the five year average. The improvement from last year is notable, yet the industry continues to operate with a smaller bird population than was typical earlier in the decade.

Higher weights are helping offset some of that headcount deficit. Average live weight has reached 33.69 pounds, more than 1.5 pounds above the five year average of 32.07 pounds and roughly 5% higher on a percentage basis...

ANALYSIS: No Letup as Broiler Hatchery Activity Holds at Record Levels

US broiler hatchery activity continues to run above already elevated year ago levels, reinforcing the scale of production capacity currently moving through the pipeline. Through early August, both eggs set and chicks placed have remained consistently above 2025 for much of the year. That comparison is particularly notable given that 2025 itself represented a record production year.

Several factors have helped support the continued expansion. Changes in broiler breeds and genetics have contributed to improved livability and growth performance, while vaccination efforts have helped limit some of the animal health challenges that previously restricted production. At the same time, feed costs...

Minerva Foods Reports Record Net Revenue of R$ 57.2 Billion for the Past 12 Months

Minerva S.A. (BM&FBOVESPA: BEEF3 | OTC - Nasdaq International: MRVSY), a South American leader in the export of fresh beef and beef products, with additional operations in the processed foods segment, reports its earnings for the second quarter of 2026. The financial and operational information presented herein is stated in Brazilian Reais (R$) and prepared in accordance with BRGAAP and International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS).

In 2Q26, Minerva Foods' net revenue totaled R$ 14.1 billion, up 1.3% year over year and 5.2% compared with 1Q26...

FMI Statement on July 2026 CPI Food Price Numbers

Today, FMI – The Food Industry Association commented on the July Consumer Price Index (CPI) numbers from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), which show a 0.1% decrease in food-at-home prices for July and a 2.7% increase over the last 12 months, which is unchanged from June. 

FMI Vice President of Tax, Trade, Sustainability and Policy Development Andy Harig stated, “July’s food price inflation figures continue the period of cooling we experienced in June, which should be welcome news for grocery shoppers. Notably, key staple categories saw decreases for...

Freddy's Promotes Rick Petralia to Executive Chef and Vice President of Training & Innovation

Fast-casual restaurant concept Freddy's Frozen Custard & Steakburgers announced today the promotion of Rick Petralia to Executive Chef and Vice President of Training & Innovation.

In the newly appointed role, Petralia will oversee Freddy's flagship training and media resource teams and continue to advance culinary strategy. His leadership style and commitment to cross-functional teamwork are expected to bring a fresh perspective to the company's training program.

"Rick has relentlessly pursued excellence in defining culinary strategies for core menus and limited time offers...

A&W Restaurants Enters Chicken Sandwich Category With New Crispy Chicken Lineup

A&W Restaurants is entering the chicken sandwich category with the launch of its new Crispy Chicken Sandwich, following seven years of recipe development.

Announced Wednesday, the lineup includes the original Crispy Chicken Sandwich, a Deluxe version with lettuce and tomato, and a limited-time Nashville Hot variation.

To support the launch, A&W is offering a buy-one-get-one (BOGO) promotion from Aug. 17 through Aug. 23 at participating restaurants. The offer is available upon request...

Taco Bell Teams Up With Peso Pluma and Tajín for New Menu Collaboration

Taco Bell is teaming up with corridos tumbados (trap-infused, modern Mexican folk) music sensation Peso Pluma for its latest celebrity partnership, bringing his longtime Taco Bell fandom and lifelong love of Tajín to the menu.

After joining Taco Bell's fan community at Live Más LIVE earlier this year, Peso Pluma got a first taste of the collaboration inside Taco Bell's Test Kitchen, where he gave the lineup his stamp of approval.

Starting Aug. 13, the Tajín Taco, Tajín Cheesy Gordita Crunch and Tajín...

Brinker’s Chili’s Posts 5.6% Comp Sales Growth, Sets Fiscal 2027 Outlook

Brinker International closed fiscal 2026 with another quarter of comparable sales growth at Chili’s, extending the brand’s streak to five consecutive years.

For the fourth quarter ended June 24, company sales increased about 5% year over year (YOY) to $1.52 billion. Company comparable restaurant sales rose 5.0%, led by a 5.6% increase at Chili’s, which benefited from higher traffic and continued outperformance versus competitors.

"Q4 2026 completes five consecutive years of Chili's same-store sales growth, delivering an unprecedented 71% cumulative increase over that time," said...

ANALYSIS: Brazil's Beef Exports Decline to 227,938 MT in July As China’s Quota Near Exhaustion

According to the latest update from Brazil's Ministry of Development, Industry, Trade, and Services, total beef exports reached 227,938 metric tons (MT) in July 2026, declining 17.7% year-over-year (YOY) and 18.5% month-over-month (MOM) from June's 279,628 MT — the highest monthly volume recorded in 2026. The result brings the year-to-date (YTD) total through July to 1,722,638 MT, up 10.2% compared with the 1,563,393 MT shipped over the same seven-month period in....

The Retail Rundown: Ample Chicken Supply Keeps Retailers on the Promotional Offensive

There is plenty of chicken available in 2026—and retailers are making sure shoppers notice.

The latest USDA retail feature data shows the national chicken feature rate reached 84.1%, up about five points from a year earlier. At the same time, the activity index was 74,145, essentially unchanged from last year. In other words, chicken is occupying a significant amount of promotional space even though overall ad activity is not dramatically higher.

That tracks with the broader supply picture, with ample production leaving processors with more pounds to...

Taylor Farms Recalls Products Containing Jalapeños Over Salmonella Risk

Taylor Fresh Foods, whose products are sold under the Taylor Farms brand, is recalling a range of prepared foods containing fresh jalapeños supplied by Coast Citrus Distributors, which recalled the peppers over concerns about possible Salmonella contamination.

The Taylor Farms recall affects dips, salsas, prepared sandwiches and salads distributed to retailers including Whole Foods, Walmart, Trader Joe’s, Target, Stop & Shop, Kroger and Hannaford stores across the United States.

Among the 20 recalled products is Trader Joe’s Fiesta Style Salad with Shrimp, sold in 11.11-ounce packages. The affected...

Kroger Names Nate Faust Executive Vice President and Chief eCommerce Officer

The Kroger Co. (NYSE:KR) today announced that Nate Faust will join the company as Executive Vice President and Chief eCommerce Officer, effective September 1, 2026.

Faust brings more than two decades of experience building and scaling highly impactful eCommerce businesses, most recently at Olive creating a waste-free delivery and returns experience for brands like Rhone, Cynthia Rowley and Rent the Runway. As a founder, operator, investor and advisor, he has consistently been at the forefront of supply chain innovation, digital commerce and customer experience...

Secretary Rollins Visits Moore Air Base To Announce Memorandum of Understanding Between USDA and DHS

Yesterday, U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins hosted an event at Moore Air Base in Texas to announce new Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS), reinforcing a whole-of-government commitment to protect the nation’s food, agriculture, and veterinary systems from emerging threats like New World screwworm (NWS). U.S. Customs and Border Protection Commissioner Rodney Scott represented U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security Markwayne Mullin at the event.

“The United States has the strongest food and agriculture system in...

How AEB’s Export Focus Is Brightening the Egg Market Outlook

The egg market is shifting, and AEB’s efforts are a big reason why.

After months of heavy domestic supply, eggs are moving. Export demand is driving real momentum, and the numbers back it up. Total U.S. egg exports are up 25% through the first half of 2026. Exports to Japan are up 78%. And exports to South Korea? Up 745%. Yes, 745%. These are not rounding errors. This is the result of years of deliberate, sustained investment in relationship building in foreign markets, and it is working exactly when farmers...

Red Robin Launches Value Dinner Deal, Names Scott Hudler CMO

Red Robin is adding a new value-focused dinner promotion with the launch of its Dinner Double Feature. Priced at $17.99, the offer lets guests mix and match two half-portion entrées, along with coleslaw, a Bottomless Side and a choice of select appetizer or dessert.

The promotion spans chicken, shrimp and ribs, giving diners 180 possible meal combinations. In announcing the offer, President and CEO Dave Pace said the company is looking to deliver both variety and value as consumers continue to seek...

After More Than 65 Years, Domino's® to Launch the First Pizza Worthy of Its Name

After more than 65 years, Domino's Pizza Inc. is introducing the first pizza worthy of its name: the Domino. Launching nationwide on Aug. 31, the new Detroit-style pizza made for one delivers the demands of today's modern pizza occasion, providing customization without compromise. Now everyone can enjoy their own pizza, with the toppings they want. Sharing a meal no longer means having to share a pizza.

The Domino is shaped just like the brand's iconic logo and cut into two generous...

ANALYSIS: US Pork Exports in June Pressured by Mixed Global Demand

US pork exports totaled 540.2 million pounds in June, declining 10.3% month over month (MOM) and 3.2% year over year (YOY), reflecting softer demand across several international markets. While export activity remained generally diversified, widespread declines throughout Asia and portions of Latin America more than offset improvements into Mexico and several smaller destinations. The monthly slowdown follows a strong first half of the year that saw overall export volume 4% higher by comparison to the same period in 2025. 

Mexico remained the largest destination...

FMI Welcomes SQFI New Director of Business Development, North America

Today, FMI — The Food Industry Association welcomes Jackie Galarza as director of business development, North America for the Safe Quality Food Institute (SQFI), a division of FMI. Galarza brings more than a decade of experience building businesses, developing strategic partnerships, and turning trusted customer and supplier relationships into measurable results across the food, beverage, spirits, and packaging industries.

“As a natural connector and results-oriented leader, Jackie will focus on strengthening our Certification Body and key-account relationships and support continued growth across North America,” said Gigi Vita, chief food...

RBI to Repurchase 2.78M Exchangeable Units From 3G Affiliate

Restaurant Brands International (RBI) , the parent company of Burger King, Tim Hortons, Popeyes and Firehouse Subs, said an affiliate of 3G Capital has requested the exchange of 2,784,549 RBI LP Class B exchangeable units.

RBI LP plans to repurchase the units for cash using available funds. Once completed, the units will be cancelled, reducing RBI’s fully diluted share count by the same amount. After the exchange, the 3G Capital affiliate is expected to hold about 21% of RBI’s fully diluted common...

Stop & Shop Recalls Two Deli & Produce Items After Being Alerted of Potential for Salmonella

Out of an abundance of caution, Stop & Shop is recalling two deli and produce items after being alerted by the manufacturer that its jalapeno supplier has initiated a recall due to the potential for salmonella. This is part of a broader, voluntary recall by jalapeno supplier Coast Citrus Distributors. All impacted products at all Stop & Shop stores have been removed from sale.

The two deli and produce items impacted by this recall are as follows...

JBS USA to Transform Souderton Facility into Value-added Operation

JBS USA today [August 10, 2026] announced plans to transform its Souderton, Pennsylvania, facility into a dedicated value-added operation, preserving approximately 400 jobs and supporting the company's continued growth.

As previously announced, beef harvesting and processing operations at the facility will conclude on Aug. 14, 2026. Following the transition, JBS will invest more than $30 million over the next decade to modernize and enhance the Souderton facility's value-added and case-ready capabilities.

The company expects the conversion to further strengthen its ability to deliver high-quality, value-added protein products to customers throughout the Northeast while maintaining a significant employment presence in Montgomery County...

FMI Statement on FDA’s Proposed Rule on GRAS

Today [August 10, 2026], FMI – The Food Industry Association Chief Public Policy Officer and General Counsel Stephanie Harris offered the following statement regarding the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) proposed rule that would reform the Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) process. 

“FMI supports meaningful, science-based modernization of the GRAS framework to strengthen transparency, reinforce consumer confidence and ensure the continued safety of the U.S. food supply. We believe FDA should remain the authoritative federal body for evaluating food ingredients and making safety determinations based on rigorous science, qualified expertise and...

Meat Institute: FDA Proposed GRAS Reforms Good First Step

The Meat Institute today [August 10, 2026] said the proposed changes to the Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) generally recognized as safe (GRAS) regulations are a good first step but it will continue to work with the Administration to ensure reforms protect food safety, foster innovation and maintain an affordable food supply.

“The Meat Institute supports updating the GRAS framework in a way that strengthens consumer confidence while preserving a science-based, risk-based regulatory system,” said Meat Institute President and CEO Julie Anna Potts. “We will work closely with FDA and FSIS to ensure reforms continue to protect...

CNBC/NRF Retail Monitor Shows 10th Month of Sales Growth in July

Retail sales rose again in July, marking the 10th consecutive month of gains, according to the CNBC/NRF Retail Monitor, powered by Affinity Solutions, released today by the National Retail Federation.

“Retail sales maintained their steady upward momentum in July as consumers kept shopping despite ups and downs in other economic indicators,” NRF President and CEO Matthew Shay said. “Supported by a low unemployment rate and steady wage gains, households remained budget conscious but took full advantage of midsummer sales and early back-to-school promotions to stretch...

Chartwells Higher Education Reveals Top 5 Campus Dining Trends

Today's college students are rewriting the rules of campus dining, seeking food that acts as both a sensory adventure and a targeted wellness tool. Aligning with these new expectations, Chartwells Higher Education, a recognized leader in contract food management, has released its 2026 Fall Flavor Forecast, identifying the five food, beverage, and dining trends that will inspire campus menu planning this semester.

Driven by student input and culinary insights from Chartwells' expert team of chefs, this year's forecast spotlights a generation that views food as more than just fuel. Last year...

Jersey Mike’s Appoints Matt Bromberg to Board of Directors

Jersey Mike's Subs Inc. ("Jersey Mike's" or the "Company") (NYSE: JMKE) today announced the appointment of Matthew Bromberg to its Board of Directors, effective July 29, 2026. Mr. Bromberg currently serves as President and Chief Executive Officer of Unity Software, Inc. (NYSE: U), where he leads the company’s global strategy and operations, and brings extensive experience across technology, consumer businesses, and organizational growth.

“Matt is an accomplished business leader with a demonstrated track record of scaling organizations, driving innovation...

Red Robin Bets on Choice and Value With New $17.99 Dinner Offer

Casual dining restaurant chain Red Robin Gourmet Burgers, Inc. is making a series of moves that reflect some of the broader pressures and shifts shaping casual dining, including consumer sensitivity to price, demand for value, and the growing importance of cultural relevance in driving restaurant traffic.

The latest is a new $17.99 Dinner Double Feature launching August 10. Available for a limited time at participating locations, the dine-in offer gives customers two half-portion entrées, coleslaw, one Bottomless Side, and a select appetizer or dessert...

B&G Foods Appoints Robert D. Mills as President and Chief Executive Officer

B&G Foods, Inc. (NYSE: BGS) announced today that its Board of Directors has appointed Robert “Rob” D. Mills as President and Chief Executive Officer, effective today. Mr. Mills, who has served as a member of B&G Foods’ Board of Directors since March 2018, succeeds Casey Keller who retired as President, Chief Executive Officer and a director at the end of last week.

Mr. Mills is an accomplished executive with more than 20 years of broad operating and leadership experience and a demonstrated track record of driving growth and long-term strategy. Mr. Mills also has extensive experience in corporate strategy, M&A and business development, including evaluating, acquiring and integrating businesses...

ANALYSIS: US Imported & Domestic Boneless Beef: August Market Summary — 10-Year Review (2017–2026)

In the US domestic boneless beef market during August 2017, fresh 50s trended lower as supply consistently outpaced demand. The US imported beef market followed a similar path that year, with sustained price declines throughout August.

By August 2026, market conditions reflect a very different landscape. Ongoing US–Iran geopolitical tensions, new Section 301 tariffs effective July 24, lingering HPAI impacts from 2025, a recovering US cattle herd, and deeply negative packer margins are reshaping supply and pricing dynamics.

This Expana exclusive analysis explores a 10-year review of the US imported & domestic boneless beef markets, examining historical trends, market shifts...

FSIS Issues Public Health Alert for Various Meat and Poultry Products Due To Possible Salmonella

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) is issuing a public health alert for meat and poultry products containing FDA-regulated jalapeños that may be contaminated with Salmonella. FSIS expects additional downstream products will be identified as this ingredient recall progresses. As more information becomes available, FSIS will update this public health alert. Consumers should check back frequently.

The list of products subject to the public health alert is available here, including information such as the product names...

Corte Argentino USA Recalls Raw Beef Products Imported Without The Benefit Of Import Reinspection

Corte Argentino USA LLC, located in Aventura, Fla., is recalling approximately 29,628 pounds of raw beef products that were imported from Argentina without the benefit of import reinspection into the United States, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today [August 7, 2026].

The raw beef products were produced between May 15, 2026, and May 20, 2026, and have use or freeze-by dates between September 15, 2026, and September 20, 2026. The following products are subject to recall...

Expana's Weekly Top 10

This week’s Top 10 covers key developments across food, beverage and the agriculture markets. Highlights include US Foods’ strong Q2, a push to tighten Buy American rules for school meals, and an Amazon seafood greenwashing lawsuit.

The roundup also tracks WK Kellogg’s reformulation plans, delayed Brazilian coffee and shifting fertilizer demand, and the EU PPWR compliance deadline. To close out the list, we look at retailers’ August protein-led promotions, the rollout of new FLIP tariffs alongside Canada’s pending duties, and ongoing oil volatility tied to Strait of Hormuz ...

Import Cargo’s Early Peak Season is Winding Down

This year’s peak shipping season is coming to an end, with import volume at the nation’s major container ports expected to remain high this month before starting to decline for the remainder of 2026, according to the Global Port Tracker report released today by the National Retail Federation and Hackett Associates.

“We had an early peak season this year as retailers brought in merchandise ahead of tariff changes in late July and responded to other uncertainties in the supply chain like the ongoing disruption brought by the conflict in Iran,” NRF Vice...

FDA Issues Emergency Use Authorization for Drug to Prevent New World Screwworm in Multiple Species

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration today issued an Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) for CLiK Extra (dicyclanil topical suspension) wound spray for application on or around wounds for the prevention of New World screwworm (NWS) infestations (myiasis) in sheep, cattle, goats, swine, camelids (e.g., camels, llamas, alpacas), and the following captive and captured wildlife species: cervids (e.g., deer, elk), American bison, bighorn sheep, and Sonoran pronghorn.

"Under President Trump’s leadership, we are giving American farmers, ranchers, veterinarians, and wildlife managers the tools they need to fight back," said Acting FDA Commissioner...

WK Kellogg Accelerates Removal of Artificial Colors, BHT Across Cereal Portfolio

WK Kellogg Co is accelerating plans to eliminate artificial colors and the preservative BHT across its entire cereal portfolio and cereal packaging, with production of reformulated products beginning later this year and shipments to retailers expected before year-end.

The updated recipes, including Kellogg's Froot Loops and Apple Jacks, will use colors derived from fruit and vegetable juices and other plant-based ingredients. The company said it has invested in its manufacturing network to support the transition at scale while maintaining product taste and...

Bipartisan Bill Would Tighten US Sourcing Rules for School Meal Programs

A bipartisan bill introduced in the US Senate would tighten domestic sourcing requirements for federally funded school meal programs, a move supporters say would expand market opportunities for US farmers, ranchers and food manufacturers while reducing schools' reliance on imported food.

Introduced July 31 by Sens. Tim Sheehy (R-Mont.) and Adam Schiff (D-Calif.), the American Food for American Schools Act would require school food authorities to obtain a waiver from the US Department of Agriculture before purchasing most foreign food products. The legislation would also...

Middle East Market Intelligence Brief: Week Ending August 7, 2026

President Donald Trump’s war with Iran has reached its sixth month, lasting far longer than the weeks-long conflict he initially predicted. A combination of diplomatic efforts and renewed military threats this week has highlighted the limited options before the White House as it looks for a way to end the war.

The administration now faces a decision: continue escalating pressure on Iran or pursue negotiations aimed at reaching a resolution...

Yum China Completes the Acquisition of Ownership of the Pizza Hut Brand in Mainland China

Yum China Holdings, Inc. (the "Company" or "Yum China") (NYSE: YUMC and HKEX: 9987) today announced that it has completed the acquisition of the ownership of the Pizza Hut brand in Mainland China from Yum! Brands, Inc. ("Yum! Brands") (NYSE: YUM) for US$1.2 billion.

The acquisition was first announced on June 16, 2026.

Joey Wat, CEO of Yum China, said, "Becoming the owner of the Pizza Hut brand in Mainland China is a major breakthrough for us, after operating the brand in the...

Farmers Left Waiting After Senate Farm Bill Fails to Advance

American Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall today expressed deep disappointment in the failure of the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry to advance a farm bill. He called on senators to return to the negotiating table for the sake of rural communities across America.

“We are deeply disappointed that senators failed to advance a farm bill today,” said Duvall. “At a time when farmers, ranchers and rural communities across the country are facing multiyear losses, the need for a strong, bipartisan farm bill, one that...

Pork Producers Disappointed Senate Farm Bill Fails to Pass–Ag’s Needs, Including Prop. 12 Fix Stand

The National Pork Producers Council’s President Rob Brenneman, a pork producer from Washington County, Iowa, issued the following statement after the U.S. Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry’s farm bill failed to move forward.

“When Congress passes a new farm bill, it must include the ask of America’s 60,000-plus pork producers to finally stop the threat of a state-by-state patchwork of farm animal housing laws spurred by California Proposition 12.

“America’s pork producers deserve a robust farm bill, which should come with protection from being forced to rebuild their barns every time another state decides it knows what is best for animal welfare over farmers...

White Castle Brings Back 10 Original Sliders for $8.99 for a Limited Time

White Castle is bringing back one of its most popular value deals, offering customers 10 Original Sliders for $8.99 as the company continues to position itself as a convenient, one-stop option for family meals while delivering affordable value.

“White Castle has always been about meeting Cravers where their budgets are,” said Jamie Richardson, Chief Marketing Officer at White Castle. “Bringing back the $8.99 10-sack means Cravers can keep feeding their Crave without it costing them extra...

ANALYSIS: Cumulative Broiler Headcount Continues to Trend Above 2025

Through the week ending July 25, 2026, year-to-date (YTD) U.S. young chicken headcount totaled 5.10 billion head, up 2.77% versus a comparable period in 2025...

ANALYSIS: US Beef Feet Falling Short of 2025 Price Levels

2026 prices are roughly half of 2025 levels, and the gap widened through the month. The YOY deficit started at -54.0% and ended at -57.3%, meaning despite both years trending upward, 2026 lost further ground at the close of the month relative to where it started.

The rallies are structurally incomparable, and the supply picture explains why. July 2025 gained $0.289/lb with weekly moves as large as $0.139, driven by tight supplies that fell short of buying interest. July 2026's entire monthly gain of...

New World Screwworm in the US - What We Know So Far

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.

Expana is closely tracking the situation—see below for related coverage and an updated factsheet with the latest developments...

US Foods Reports Record Adjusted EBITDA, 23% Earnings Growth in Second Quarter

US Foods Holding Corp. reported strong second-quarter fiscal 2026 results, with net sales increasing 4.5% to $10.5 billion, net income rising 22.8% to $275 million and diluted EPS growing 29.2% to $1.24. The company also delivered record adjusted EBITDA of $604 million, up 10.2%, while adjusted diluted EPS increased 21.0% to $1.44.

Independent restaurant case growth accelerated to 5.1%, helping drive a 1.9% increase in total case volume. Gross profit rose 8.0% to $1.9 billion, while adjusted EBITDA margin...

June Beef Export Value Above Year-Ago; Now-Resolved Offal Restrictions Slowed Pork Exports

In June, the value of U.S. beef exports increased from a year ago despite lower volumes, according to data released by USDA and compiled by the U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF). June pork exports were below last year, largely due to a sharp decline in pork variety meat exports attributable to pseudorabies-related restrictions that have since been lifted by Mexico and Colombia.

June beef exports totaled 88,586 metric tons (mt), down 6% from a year ago. However, export value was up 3% to $790.1 million, bolstered by year-over-year increases in Japan, Taiwan, the ASEAN region...

NCBA, PLC, WCA Urge Senate to Pass Bill Delisting Gray Wolf

Today [August 4, 2026], the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA), Public Lands Council (PLC), and Wisconsin Cattlemen’s Association (WCA) urged the Senate to pass S. 1306 and thanked Senator Ron Johnson R-Wis., for elevating this critical issue on behalf of livestock producers. The legislation would reissue the 2020 rule delisting gray wolves in the lower 48 states returning management authority to the states and is the Senate companion to the Pet and Livestock...

250+ Agriculture Groups Call for Bipartisan Senate Farm Bill

More than 250 food and agriculture organizations joined forces to urge the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry to advance a bipartisan farm bill out of committee in a letter delivered today. The American Farm Bureau organized the letter, which notes that farmers and ranchers haven't had a new farm bill in almost ten years.

“As organizations representing a broad swath of food and agriculture, we urge you to advance the Agricultural Act of 2026 in a bipartisan manner out of the Senate Agriculture Committee,” the letter states...