Ricketts Designates May as Beef Month

Yesterday, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) introduced a resolution to designate May 2026 as Beef Month in America. Ricketts is a longtime champion — and enjoyer — of Nebraska beef. Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Deb Fischer (R-NE), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-MS), James Lankford (R-OK), and Roger Marshall (R-KS) cosponsored this resolution.

“Nebraska is the beef state. Last year, we led the nation with over $1.75 billion in beef exports. We lead the nation in commercial cattle slaughter, with over 6 million...

Expana's Weekly Top 10

It was another busy week across global markets, with developments that ripple well beyond the headlines. From trade policy and geopolitical tension to seafood recoveries, retail demand signals, and major corporate moves, this week’s Top 10 captures the stories shaping decisions up and down the supply chain. Here’s a glance at some of the biggest headlines curated by Expana's journalists.

10. Expana remains your go-to hub for all news concerning the war in the Middle East. Stay in the know here.

Catch up with daily recaps of days 59 and 60...

Publix Q1 Sales Rise 2%, While Earnings Fall on Drug Pricing Impact

Publix posted higher first-quarter sales but lower earnings, as the grocer said a Medicare drug pricing change weighed on results.

For the three months ended March 28, 2026, Publix reported sales of $16.1 billion, up 2% from $15.8 billion a year earlier. Comparable-store sales were flat.

The company said the sales increase was dampened by the Medicare maximum fair price change that took effect Jan. 1, 2026, lowering prices for 10 drugs and reducing...

Golden Corral® Accelerates Strategic Nationwide Growth with Six New Locations Underway

Golden Corral, the nation's largest buffet chain known for its high-value, family-friendly dining experience, announced today its continued commitment to strategic, nationwide expansion, with six new restaurants currently in development across key markets in the U.S. and Puerto Rico. Backed by strong consumer demand for value-oriented dining and a buffet of development options, the iconic buffet brand is actively growing with both new and existing franchise owners.

With two locations under construction in Knoxville, Tennessee and Kissimmee...

ANALYSIS: US 2026 High Cattle Prices, Flat Cutouts - A Market Searching for Direction

Cash cattle prices made a strong move higher on Wednesday, with live sales in Nebraska reaching a new record of $257.50/cwt, up roughly 5% from last week’s $246.00/cwt trade. 

With grilling season approaching, typically one of the strongest demand periods for beef, packers appear focused on securing inventory and positioning for increased production. The goal is to stay ahead of anticipated retail and foodservice demand as consumers move into peak backyard grilling months...

ANALYSIS: US Boneless Beef Cold Storage Stocks Fall MOM in March 2026

Across the US, total boneless beef stocks continue to track well below 10-year averages. As domestic production declines and demand remains strong, a smaller share of US beef is being allocated to cold storage. At the same time, imported beef is turning over more quickly: wider price spreads have encouraged increased use in formulations, reducing the time product spends in freezers and accelerating its...

ANALYSIS: Chicken Cold Storage Shows Broad-Based Drawdown in March

March’s cold storage data reflects a decisive “clearing pattern” across much of the complex, with total chicken inventories falling 3.1% month over month and 3.4% below year-ago levels...

ANALYSIS: Japan’s Q1 2026 Beef Imports Surge 13% YOY, Australia Reclaims Lead

Japan’s beef imports maintained robust upward momentum through the first quarter of 2026, defying a punishing macroeconomic environment.

Year-to-date (YTD) volumes through March reached 104,987 metric tons (MT), representing a solid 13.0% increase (+12,072 MT) compared to the same period in 2025, according to the latest data from Trade Statistics of Japan.

This recovery is meaningful following a dismal 2025, where Japan’s total beef imports fell to 496,166 MT, the lowest in a decade...

Portillo’s Turns Up the Heat this May with New Hot & Saucy Italian Beef Sandwich

Savor Portillo’s first-ever Italian Beef LTO featuring hot Giardiniera Peppers and creamy Giardiniera Sauce

Portillo’s is turning up the heat on a Chicago classic this month. The famed fast-casual brand is debuting the Hot & Saucy Italian Beef Sandwich – a bold, spicy twist on its legendary Italian Beef that brings serious fire to a fan favorite. Available for a limited time through May 31, this craveable new sandwich is here to shake up the status quo.

“With consumer interest...

America’s Pork Producers Celebrate Victory & Express Thanks After Bipartisan House Farm Bill Passage

America’s 60,000-plus pork producers of all sizes, from all states celebrated House passage of the 2026 Farm Bill.

On an impressive, bipartisan 224-200 vote, the Farm, Food, and National Security Act of 2026 included 100% of the National Pork Producers Council’s policy requests—including a very significant section that provides much-needed relief from the misguided California Proposition 12.

“Today’s House farm bill passage is a testament to the power of rural America when we stand up for our farms...

USDA Issues Health Alert for Mama Cozzi’s Breakfast Pizzas Over Possible Salmonella Risk

The USDA’s Food Safety and Inspection Service has issued a public health alert for two Mama Cozzi’s breakfast pizza products that may contain Salmonella-contaminated dairy ingredients, according to agency notes.

The alert covers the 18.5-ounce Mama Cozzi’s Biscuit Crust Sausage & Cheese Breakfast Pizza and the 17.15-ounce Mama Cozzi’s Biscuit Crust Cooked Pork Belly Crumbles, Cooked Bacon Topping, Pepper & Onion Breakfast Pizza. The products were manufactured by Richelieu Foods Inc., bear establishment number 5699, and carry...

USDA Announces Actions to Better Serve States, Nutrition Program Recipients & the American Taxpayer

Today, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Food, Nutrition, and Consumer Services mission area announced its intention to introduce the Food and Nutrition Administration. This shift will include a reorganization and relocation, all to move program leadership and staff from Washington, D.C. to hub and program compliance locations across the U.S. This shift in customer service will not disrupt program execution nor any endeavor to eliminate fraud, waste, and abuse across USDA’s 16 nutrition assistance programs.

“On my first day leading the People’s Department, I shared several...

Farm Bureau Applauds House Passage of Farm Bill

American Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall commented today on the House of Representatives vote to pass the Farm, Food, and National Security Act of 2026.

“Farmers and ranchers applaud the House of Representatives for passing a new, modernized farm bill. We appreciate Chairman G.T. Thompson’s leadership to get this done. After three years of extensions and eight years since a farm bill was passed, we’re grateful the House found a bipartisan path forward. Important updates to research and conservation, as well as increased loan limits and clarity on interstate commerce, will...

House Passed Farm Bill Includes Provision to Include Hot Rotisserie Chicken in SNAP

During this morning’s consideration of amendments to the Farm Bill, the House voted overwhelmingly (384-35) in support of Rep. Rick Crawford’s (R-AR) commonsense and bipartisan amendment that would allow Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) participants to purchase hot rotisserie chicken using their benefits. Currently, participants can only buy a rotisserie chicken if it's cold, but not if it's hot.

“I want to thank Rep. Crawford for his leadership on this issue, and congratulate him for the passage of his amendment by such a wide and...

Red Robin Gourmet Burgers Announces the Appointment of New CFO, Mark Graff

Red Robin Gourmet Burgers, Inc. has announced the appointment of Mark Graff as its new chief financial officer.

"I'm honored to join Red Robin and look forward to partnering with the leadership team to maintain a strong focus on the company's financial foundation, support its strategic priorities and drive sustainable, long-term growth," said Graff.

Graff will join the company on May 4, succeeding interim CFO Chris Meyer. He brings more than a decade of experience at Bloomin’ Brands, most recently serving...

Chipotle Q1 Revenue Rises, but Margin Pressure Weighs on Earnings

Chipotle reported mixed first-quarter 2026 results, with steady revenue growth but declining profitability as higher costs weighed on margins.

Revenue rose 7.4% year over year to $3.1 billion, while comparable restaurant sales increased just 0.5%, reflecting a 0.6% gain in transactions and a slight 0.1% dip in average check. Digital sales remained a significant contributor, accounting for 38.6% of food and beverage revenue. The company opened 49 new company-owned locations during the quarter, most of which included a Chipotlane.

Margins, however...

BJ's Restaurant & Brewhouse Celebrates National Burger Month with New Premium Wagyu Burger

Burger season just got an upgrade. BJ's Restaurant & Brewhouse (Nasdaq: BJRI) today announced the debut of its all-new Wagyu Burger—a bold, premium addition arriving just in time for spring celebrations and National Burger Month. Crafted for guests who crave richer flavor and next-level quality, this new offering introduces a refined take on the classic burger, underscoring BJ's commitment to premium ingredients, craft-forward offerings and chef-driven menu development.

Starting at $19.99, the Wagyu Burger features a grilled...

ANALYSIS: US Pork Inventories Rebuild Modestly Following Record Low Start in 2026

Total pork in cold storage for March 2026 increased by 2.1% from the prior month, rising by 8,436 K-lbs, while remaining essentially flat year over year (YOY) with a modest 0.4% increase above March 2025 levels. Although current total cold storage volumes are slightly higher than last year, inventories began the year at historically low levels, reaching record lows in January and February based on data dating back to 1999, before...

ANALYSIS: US Lamb Carcass Prices Near Highs on Tight Supply

Expana's domestic lamb carcass values (Y4+ 75–85 lbs) are described as fully steady to higher recently trading in the $5.30–$5.45/lb range, holding near prior record levels. Historically, the previous average high was near $5.38/lb, with values also trading in a broader $5.15–$5.60/lb range during the 2021 peak, meaning current levels are effectively testing those highs.

Expana's domestic lamb carcass values...

ANALYSIS: US Veal Carcasses Hold at Record Price Levels Amid Limited Supply

Expana’s carcass veal prices in the Northeast (hide-off, 255–315 lbs) are described as full steady to firm sitting in the $660–$700/cwt range, holding at all time high price levels following the step-up seen earlier in the year. On average, this range is about 35% higher than the three-year average near $470/cwt. 

The strength in the market is largely tied to tight supply conditions, which continue to underpin pricing. According to USDA data, US...

Nathan’s Famous Reimagines the New York Hot Dog with New 100% Grass-Fed Beef Franks

Nathan’s Famous, the world-renowned purveyor of the original Coney Island hot dog, is turning up the heat on the hot dog category with the launch of its new Nathan’s Famous 100% Grass-Fed Beef Franks. Ushering in a new chapter for an American classic, the offering pairs the brand’s legendary secret recipe and signature snap with premium, 100% grass-fed beef, delivering a craveable, feel-good option designed for how consumers eat today...

Yum! Brands Opens More Than 1,000 Units in Strong Start to Fiscal 2026 

Yum! Brands reported a strong start to fiscal 2026, with first-quarter worldwide system sales up 6% excluding foreign currency translation and unit count rising 5%, including 1,030 gross new units.

CEO Chris Turner said, "We delivered solid topline momentum to start the year, with our fundamentals as strong as ever."

Parent company of QSR giants like KFC and Taco Bell, the company reported a 17% increase in GAAP operating profits, while core operating profit rose 6%...

Hit the Road and Celebrate 100 Years of Route 66 with Beef. It's What's For Dinner.

As summer road trip season kicks into high gear, the Beef. It's What's For Dinner. brand—funded by Beef farmers and ranchers—is celebrating the 100th anniversary of Route 66 with a flavorful new way to experience the Mother Road. Introducing the Route 66 Beef Trail: a free, mobile‑exclusive digital passport, that guides road trippers to legendary steakhouses, barbecue joints, cultural attractions and beef‑rich history across all eight Route 66 states. Along the way travelers can check in at participating stops, earn prizes and discover the how America's most...

Exporters Meet with Prospective Buyers at US Red Meat Symposium in Mexico City

USMEF recently held its second U.S. Red Meat Symposium in Mexico City, enabling U.S. exporters to meet face-to-face with prospective buyers from throughout Mexico. The symposium included an examination of Mexico’s economic and political climate and provided opportunities for buyers to connect with U.S. farmers and ranchers. A delegation of 18 producers and other industry leaders participated in the symposium and in market tours.

Increasingly important to the U.S. red meat industry, Mexico is the leading destination for U.S. pork, setting records in each of the past five years. It is also a growing market for U.S...

Secretary of Agriculture Issues 2026 Wildfire Readiness Memorandum Ahead of Active Fire Season

U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins today issued a new Secretarial Memorandum (PDF, 882 KB) and letter (PDF, 932 KB) directing the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Forest Service to heighten national wildfire readiness, accelerate community-focused risk reduction, and strengthen firefighter health and safety for the 2026 fire year.

“Under President Trump’s leadership, we have continuously implemented major reforms restoring active forest management, returning the Forest Service to a world‑leading forestry and fire management organization, and modernizing wildfire response and improving coordination across federal agencies...

Secretary Naig Thanks Iowa Senate for Unanimous Passage of Iowa Farm Act

Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig today thanked the Iowa Senate for its unanimous passage of the Iowa Farm Act, Senate File 2465, by a vote of 47-0.

“I appreciate members of the Iowa Senate for their support in advancing the Iowa Farm Act with a strong bi-partisan vote. Thank you to Sen. Annette Sweeney and Sen. Tom Shipley for managing the bill through the process, Sen. Dawn Driscoll for her leadership of the Agriculture Committee, and Senate Majority Leader Mike Klimesh for his work to...

Celebrate Mom in Italian Style This Mother's Day at Brio Italian Grille

This Mother's Day, treat the most important woman in your life to an unforgettable dining experience at Brio Italian Grille — the award-winning Tuscan-inspired restaurant known for its handcrafted pastas, premium steaks, fresh seafood, and warm, elegant ambiance. Every mom who dines in on Sunday, May 11, 2026 will receive a special $25 gift valid for a return visit.

"Mother's Day is the single most celebrated dining occasion of the year, and at Brio, we believe Mom deserves more than...

ANALYSIS: Turkey Industry Posts Record Live Weights as Disease Impact Moderates from 2025

Average turkey live weights reached a new record high this past March at a value of 34.41 lbs./bird, which is influencing a record high year-to-date (YTD) average live weight value of 33.94 lbs./bird...

ANALYSIS: Mexican Beef Exports to the US Ease in Early April

Mexican fresh beef cut exports to the US moved lower during the first half of April. Volumes declined gradually on a week-over-week basis, falling below the five-year average for this period. The slowdown reflected a more measured pace of trade, with participants focused on short-term coverage. Seasonal factors continued to weigh on demand, particularly during the Lenten period. At the same time, grilling demand had not yet picked up in a way that would support stronger...

ANALYSIS: Failed Floor Highlights Deepening Supply-Demand Disconnect in US Egg Market

After showing signs of stabilization through a two-week stretch of unchanged quotations, the shell egg market has once again turned lower, underscoring the fragility of what many perceived to be an established floor. Midwest large, Expana’s benchmark quotation, slipped 1ct Monday to $0.68/dozen, reinforcing that recent stability was more of a pause than a bottom...

Brinker Sales Rise as Chili’s Extends Same-Store Growth Streak

Brinker International posted higher third-quarter fiscal 2026 sales, powered by continued momentum at Chili’s, while Maggiano’s remained under pressure.

Company sales rose to $1.46 billion from $1.41 billion a year earlier, while comparable restaurant sales increased 3.3%. At Chili’s, same-store sales climbed 4.0%, marking its 20th straight quarter of growth.

"Chili's delivered its 20th consecutive quarter of same-store sales growth, up 4%, lapping a 31% increase a year ago," said Kevin Hochman, President and CEO of Brinker International. "Guest demand...

Wingstop Revenue Rises, But Same-store Sales and Restructuring Costs Weigh on Results

Wingstop reported higher first-quarter 2026 revenue, but softer same-store sales and restructuring costs weighed on results as consumer spending remained under pressure.

Total revenue rose to $183.7 million from $171.1 million a year earlier, driven largely by franchise growth, higher vendor rebates and gains from additional company-owned stores.

Royalty revenue, franchise fees and other revenue increased by $8.7 million, including a $12.2 million boost from net new franchise development and $3.4 million from higher...

Chipotle to Give Away to $2 Million in Free Burritos to Teachers and Healthcare Worker

Chipotle Mexican Grill announced today that it will award up to 200,000 teachers and healthcare workers with free entrée e-gift cards, totaling as much as $2 million in free Chipotle, as part of its annual Teacher Appreciation Week and National Nurses Week celebration. Last year, the program received its highest participation to date, reinforcing the impact of Chipotle's community recognition programs. Since 2016, the company has given away more than $16 million...

Firehouse Subs® Invites Every Mike in America to Try the New Steak & Cheese Melt - For Free

Firehouse Subs® has a message for every Mike, Michael, Mikey, Miguel, Michelle, Michele, and Michaela in America: this one's on us.

On Wednesday, May 6, any guest who shares a name in the Mike family gets a free medium Steak & Cheese Melt at participating U.S. Firehouse Subs restaurants. No purchase necessary.* No catch. Just the best steak sub we've ever made, free of charge.

The new Steak & Cheese Melt features USDA Choice prime rib, flame-seared and piled high with melty provolone...

P.F. Chang's® Celebrates Moms, Dads and Grads with Limited-Time Dining Experience

P.F. Chang's® is welcoming the season of celebration filled with plenty of reasons to gather, celebrate, and share time together. In honor of Mother's Day, Father's Day, graduation milestones, and everything in between, today the brand announced a limited-time dining experience designed to turn shared meals into lasting memories. At the heart of the promotion is a thoughtfully crafted, shareable five-course menu with three new limited-time dishes, making it even easier to gather loved ones around the...

USDA and EXIM Announce Historic Partnership to Put American Farmers First and Boost Exports

Today, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced an expanded partnership with the Export-Import Bank of the United States (EXIM) to increase domestic agricultural production and exports, while reducing the agricultural trade deficit. Alongside this partnership, USDA is formally launching the Financial Assurance to Revitalize Markets, or FARM, Initiative, a comprehensive effort to strengthen and modernize its export credit guarantee program in support of U.S. agricultural competitiveness. 

The FARM Initiative serves as the umbrella for a series of program improvements and activities designed to enhance...

The Retail Rundown: Grilling Season in View as May Retail Demand Builds

May is approaching, bringing the unofficial start of grilling season alongside major retail drivers like Mother’s Day, graduations, and Memorial Day.

Commissioner Wilton Simpson Issues Emergency Rule to Further Protect Florida From Threat of NWS

Today, as New World Screwworm detections are now within 125 miles of the U.S. border, Florida Commissioner of Agriculture Wilton Simpson took aggressive action to protect Florida from the threat of the New World Screwworm (NWS) by issuing an emergency rule placing temporary restrictions on the importation of animals into Florida from high-risk counties in Texas. These temporary restrictions require all animals imported into Florida originating from a high-risk U.S. county to undergo increased veterinary screenings and treatment, if necessary.

“Today we are taking...

Bob Evans Unveils Spring Berry Menu for Mother’s Day 2026

Just in time for Mother’s Day, Bob Evans Farmhouse Kitchen™ is bringing back its beloved spring berry offerings to help families celebrate Mom with less stress and more time together. Featuring fan-favorite dishes crafted with fresh, seasonal ingredients alongside Family Meal options perfect for sharing, Bob Evans makes it easy to honor the special women in your life, whether guests are dining in or enjoying a comforting spread at home.

“Mother’s Day is about showing appreciation through time spent together, and food has always...

Day 60 of Iran War: Trump Team Reviews Iran Proposal; UAE Quits OPEC

US President Donald Trump’s national security team is reviewing an Iranian peace proposal as negotiations with Tehran remain deadlocked.

Iran has suggested deferring nuclear talks until the war ends and disputes over Gulf shipping are resolved, an approach opposed by Trump.

Oil prices extended gains on Tuesday as traffic through the Strait of Hormuz remained sharply constrained, with only a small number of vessels transiting and some tankers turned back.

Dozens of countries have called for the “urgent and unimpeded reopening” of the vital waterway, which carries roughly one-fifth of global oil supply...

McLane Company’s “100 Days of Summer” Showcases Innovative LTOs Built for Peak-Season C-Store Sales

McLane Company, Inc., one of the largest distributors in America and an industry-leading partner to the biggest retail and restaurant brands, today announced the launch of its “100 Days of Summer” promotional campaign, a curated selection of seasonal food and beverage offerings designed to help convenience retailers maximize summer sales opportunities.

As road trips remain the dominant form of summer travel—accounting for travel plans for more than 60% of Americans—consumer demand for fresh, convenient food...

Chipotle Taps Award-Winning Fernando Machado as Chief Brand Officer

Chipotle Mexican Grill today announced it has appointed Fernando Machado, one of the world's most innovative CMOs, as Chief Brand Officer, effective June 1. In this role, Machado will lead the company's global marketing strategy, brand positioning and customer engagement efforts as Chipotle continues to execute its Recipe for Growth strategy, driving innovation and expanding its global footprint.

Machado spent over seven years as the Chief Marketing Officer at Restaurant Brands International (RBI) across brands like Burger King, Popeyes and Tim Hortons...

ANALYSIS: Argentina Fresh Beef Exports Rebound 25.1% MOM to 61,644 MT in March 2026

The latest data released by Argentina’s National Institute of Statistics and Census showed that fresh beef exports (chilled and frozen) in March 2026 rebounded sharply after falling for sixth consecutive months. Shipments surged 25.1% from the previous month to 61,644 MT, up 38.5% on a year-over-year (YOY)...

Subway Pushes Protein and Value With New Fresh Value Menu

Subway is leaning into key industry trends, including protein and value, with its latest menu innovation. At participating locations, the sandwich chain has introduced Subway’s Fresh Value Menu, featuring 15 entrees priced under $5, with most offering nearly 20 grams of protein. The launch follows the brand’s recently promoted Sub of the Day offer, which features a different six-inch sub each day of the week for $4.99.

"Subway's Fresh Value Menu proves you don't have to choose between eating well and saving money," said Dave Skena...

Sysco Delivers Strong Third-Quarter Growth Amid Major Acquisition Plans

Global foodservice distributor Sysco has reported its financial results for the third quarter of fiscal 2026, which ended March 28.

Kevin Hourican, Sysco’s Chair of the Board and Chief Executive Officer, commented on the company’s performance, stating, “Sysco delivered strong results in the third quarter of fiscal 2026, driven by continued acceleration in local case volume and expanded gross margins.” He added, “Importantly, our US local volumes grew 3.3%, the highest quarterly rate in over three years. This exceeded our prior commitment...

Meat Institute Report: How Animal Agriculture Supply Chains Are Calculating Scope 3 Emissions 

The Meat Institute released a new report entitled, “Greenhouse Gas Accounting: Emissions Factors Brief,” offering a closer and comprehensive look at how companies across the animal agriculture supply chain are currently measuring and reporting upstream greenhouse gas emissions.

“This report is intended as a practical resource for companies throughout the meat and poultry supply chain to better understand how emissions data are developed, to ask clearer questions of data providers, and to build strategies that reflect their operational realities,” said Meat Institute President and CEO Julie Anna Potts. “The report also outlines current knowledge gaps and points to...

Long John Silver’s Brings Frank’s RedHot Buffalo to Seafood and Chicken Favorites

Long John Silver’s (LJS) is introducing Frank’s RedHot® Buffalo to its menu, adding a bold, tangy kick to its seafood and chicken lineup.

"We're always looking for new ways to bring bold, craveable flavors to our guests, and Frank's RedHot® does just that," said Meredith Smith, director of brand marketing at Long John Silver's. "This lineup delivers that signature heat people love, paired with the seafood and chicken favorites we're known for."

Frank’s RedHot® brings bold, tangy...

USDA Highlights EPA Emergency Exemption of Product To Treat New World Screwworm

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) recently submitted an Emergency Exemption request to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to allow the importation and use of Elanco’s product, Tanidil, a topical powder used to treat or prevent New World screwworm (NWS). Today, EPA granted USDA’s request and issued the Emergency Exemption under Section 18 of the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act. 

This authorization will support APHIS and State animal health officials in preparing for possible cases of NWS in livestock and...

Global Virus Network Statement on H5N1 Vaccine Developments

The Global Virus Network (GVN), representing eminent human and animal virologists from more than 90 Centers of Excellence and Affiliates in over 40 countries dedicated to advancing research, collaboration, and pandemic preparedness, unequivocally supports and is very encouraged by recent developments in vaccines targeting H5N1 avian influenza, including the initiation of a Phase 3 clinical trial by Moderna for its mRNA-based H5N1 vaccine candidate (mRNA-1018), with the majority of clinical sites based in the United Kingdom and additional sites in the United States. This effort, supported by the UK’s National Institute for Health and Care Research...

Day 59 of Iran War: Trump Floats Phone-Based Negotiations; Hormuz Traffic Stays Low

Iran has intensified diplomatic efforts to end the war with the United States, with Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi traveling to Russia today.

Araghchi is expected to meet President Vladimir Putin, with talks set to focus on bilateral relations and broader regional developments, including the US-Israel war on Iran.

US President Donald Trump said Iran could begin negotiations by phone if it wants to end the two-month war. Key sticking points remain Iran’s nuclear program and access to the Strait of Hormuz, which Iran effectively...

DoorDash Announces Significant Grocery Expansion in Canada with Empire Company Limited

DoorDash today announced one of its largest grocery expansions in Canada through a new partnership with Empire Company Limited (TSX: EMP.A), bringing more than 1,000 stores across 10 provinces onto its marketplace. This comes as grocery is one of the fastest-growing categories on DoorDash in Canada.

The expansion brings 12 grocery banners from Empire’s family of brands – including Sobeys, Safeway, IGA, FreshCo, Farm Boy, and Longo’s – onto DoorDash. Convenience options like Needs, Boni-Soir, and Voisin are also available...

Layne's Chicken Fingers Accelerates Growth in Q1 2026 With 50+ Restaurants Awarded and Expansion 

Layne's Chicken Fingers, the Texas "Born and Breaded" chicken finger franchise, has seen rapid growth in recent years, and demand only continues to rise. Kicking off 2026, the brand awarded more than 50 new restaurants to new franchise partners across Victoria, Texas; Sacramento and Fresno, California; northeastern Pennsylvania; and Charlotte, North Carolina (a 27-unit agreement). Layne's also continued expansion with existing owners, including expansion deals signed for Oklahoma, San Antonio and the entire state of Arkansas. As the...

Freddy's Strengthens Development Leadership Team with Two Key Executive Appointments

Freddy's Frozen Custard & Steakburgers ("Freddy's") – the fast-casual restaurant concept known for its steakburgers, shoestring fries and frozen custard treats – is strengthening its development team as the brand continues to build on its strategic growth momentum. Rafik Farouk has joined as Vice President of Business Development, and Jackie Lobdell has been named Vice President of Franchise Sales.

As Freddy's approaches 600 restaurants, the addition of these experienced leaders reinforces the team driving the brand's expansion. Together, Farouk and Lobdell bring more than four decades...

ANALYSIS: Rising Freight Costs Drive Regional Fragmentation in US Cage-Free Market

Freight costs have moved sharply higher in recent weeks, with the US Energy Information Association reporting the national diesel average at $5.403 per gallon, compared to $3.534 a year ago. This increase continues to influence how shell eggs.....

ANALYSIS: EU Egg Market Signals Relief as Bird Flu Eases

Bird flu pressure across the EU appears to be easing, with several regions reporting more stable sanitary conditions following a challenging winter period. This shift is beginning to translate into improved market sentiment, although recovery remains uneven across member states.

In Spain, early signs of rebuilding are emerging. Market participants report that repopulation efforts have started among producers who lost layer flocks during the peak of the outbreaks. While this signals a gradual restoration of production capacity, the process is expected...

Navigating the Trump Tariff Turbulence: A Comprehensive Timeline

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

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

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

Expana's Weekly Top 10

This week’s Expana Top 10 Weekly highlights a food industry navigating shifting consumer demand, policy changes and global uncertainty. From Red Lobster’s strategic revival of a once-problematic promotion to new US legislation aimed at strengthening domestic seafood, companies are balancing value, supply chain pressures and long-term growth. At the same time, e-commerce continues to reshape grocery, sustainability initiatives are accelerating, and private label gains momentum, underscoring a market defined by adaptation, cost discipline and evolving consumer behavior. This list is no particular order.

FMI Condemns Federal Regulatory Action on State Swipe Fee Reform

Today [April 24, 2026], FMI – The Food Industry Association condemned in the strongest terms the action taken by the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC), banking regulators under the U.S. Treasury Department, to issue two interim final rules that override the Illinois swipe fee reform law and to prohibit other states from enacting swipe fee reform laws.  

FMI President and CEO Leslie G. Sarasin stated, “At a time when the largest banks and credit card networks are pulling in record profits on the backs of grocers, main street businesses and millions of American consumers through credit card swipe fees...

We Need Congress to Support Rural America—Not Hollywood Voters—in the Farm Bill

A bipartisan coalition supports a farm bill that protects American farmers (and families seeking affordable food) from California’s overreach—but a handful of House members want to strip it out. They’re making claims that don’t match the record.

Meanwhile, America’s 60,000-plus pork producers need immediate relief from a disastrous patchwork of differing state laws spurred by California Proposition 12, a state law that forces pork producers outside the state’s borders to comply with arbitrary animal housing requirements.

Experienced farmers, credible veterinarians, the president of the United States, and state and federal government...

NCBA Members Bring Cattle Industry Priorities to Washington During Legislative Conference

The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA), and its nationwide network of state affiliates, concluded its 2026 Legislative Conference this week, bringing together cattle producers from across the country to advocate for policy solutions that strengthen America’s cattle industry and rural communities. Throughout the conference, producers met with federal officials and engaged directly with policymakers on Capitol Hill to ensure the voice of cattle producers is heard in Washington...