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...

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...

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...

NRF 2026 Hot 25 List Highlights Fastest-Growing Retailers

The National Retail Federation today announced the 2026 Hot 25 Retailers List, compiled by Kantar. The annual list ranks the fastest-growing retailers in the United States based on increases in domestic retail sales between 2024 and 2025.

“The retailers on this year’s Hot 25 list highlight the diversity and innovation shaping today’s retail landscape,” NRF Chief Economist and Executive Director of Research Mark Mathews said. “As consumer preferences evolve, these retailers are responding with products, value and shopping experiences that resonate with consumers.”

Chinese retailer Miniso claimed the top...

ANALYSIS: Australia's July 2026 Beef Exports Ease as China Safeguard Delivers First Full-Month Impact

Australia's outbound beef shipments retreated further in July 2026, with total export volumes easing to 143,962 metric tons (MT), according to the latest trade data from Australia's Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF).

The result marks a second consecutive monthly decline from May's all-time record of 152,438 MT, falling 1.9% below June's 146,798 MT and 4.3% below the same month last year, the first year-on-year (YOY) decline since December 2022...

Albertsons Companies Expands AI-Powered Grocery Shopping with New Safeway Plugin in ChatGPT

Albertsons® Companies, Inc. continues its digital transformation today announcing its Safeway plugin in ChatGPT, making grocery shopping faster, easier and more intuitive. Available now, the new Safeway plugin helps consumers discover products, evaluate options and complete their shopping journey in ChatGPT, while remaining in control of their purchasing decisions.

“We are on a mission to power our customers at every touchpoint with AI to deliver a seamless shopping experience that’s faster, easier and more enjoyable,” said Jill Pavlovich, SVP of Digital Customer Experience...

7-Eleven Introduces Limited-Time Breakfast and All-Day Offers for Back-to-School Rush

7-Eleven, Inc. is rolling out a new lineup of breakfast offers and all-day deals timed for the back-to-school rush across 7-Eleven®, Speedway® and Stripes® stores nationwide. The initiative highlights quick, low-price options aimed at busy mornings and parents on-the-go.

For a limited time, customers can find hot, hearty items at the chain’s in-store restaurants:

Laredo Taco Company® restaurants are rolling out all-day $3 quesadillas. It includes a...

Marco's Pizza Signs Three-Unit Agreement in Columbia, Missouri

Marco's Pizza, one of the nation's fastest-growing pizza brands, announces a new three-unit development agreement in Columbia, Missouri, led by franchise co-owners Russ Anderson and Betzayda "Betzy" Alvarez-Anderson. Joining them in the agreement is Betzy's husband and Russ' nephew, Klayton Anderson, who will serve as operator. The first location is scheduled to open in October 2026, at 911 Rain Forest Pkwy., marking the start of a broader regional development plan across mid-Missouri.

"This agreement reflects exactly the kind of operator partnership that drives sustainable growth for our brand," said Gerardo Flores, Chief Development Officer of Marco's Pizza. "Russ, Betzy...

Piggly Wiggly Food For Less Announces Affordable Protein Initiative for American Families

In response to rising grocery costs, Piggly Wiggly Food For Less announced today its Affordable Protein Initiative, reinforcing the company's commitment to providing fresh, high-quality meat at an exceptional value. Through strategic manufacturer partnerships, fresh in-store meat operations, its proprietary Power Buy Program, and its Cost Plus 10% pricing philosophy, Piggly Wiggly Food For Less is helping customers save on the products families purchase most.

"Meat is the centerpiece of almost every family meal," said Kevin McDaniel, co-owner of Piggly Wiggly Food For Less...

The Retail Rundown: Retailers Pivot to Back-to-School and Football Season

August marks one of grocers' busiest seasonal transitions as retailers work to capture the final weeks of summer while preparing for back-to-school routines, Labor Day cookouts, and the start of football season.

Store circulars are increasingly shifting from vacation essentials to lunchbox staples, breakfast foods, and snacks. Retailers are also capitalizing on the broader protein trend by highlighting products that deliver both nutrition and convenience, with deli meats and ready-to-eat offerings prominently featured. 

USDA retail feature activity indicates this emphasis on fresh proteins, with ground beef serving as a key traffic driver...

USMEF Launches “Father’s Day is US Beef Day” Initiative in Japan

Comprehensive campaign connects U.S. beef to Father’s Day while boosting consumer demand through retail and foodservice promotions.

Inflation and a weakened currency continue pushing Japan’s food prices upward. With the yen recently hitting its weakest level in 40 years, Japanese consumers are naturally trading down to less expensive food options, particularly for everyday items. At-home consumption of beef dropped 3% in 2025, and has fallen 15% since 2019, according to Japan’s Agriculture & Livestock Industries Corporation.

While retail sales for imported beef are down, the weakened yen is boosting tourism. Last year, a record 42.7 million tourists visited Japan, a 16% increase over 2024, per...

Secretary Rollins Announces New Steps to Put Farmers First While at Minnesota Farmfest

Today [August 4, 2026], at Minnesota Farmfest, U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins announced several steps that the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is taking to support America’s farmers in response to ongoing challenges across the agricultural sector. These actions include a series of data modernization, payment flexibility, and enhanced crop insurance options to benefit farmers.

“When I travel across farm country, I hear the same message over and over: producers want a USDA that works for them. The Trump USDA is focused on making changes that improve the livelihood of our great farmers. I am pleased to announce three critical initiatives to support farmers and U.S. agriculture broadly...

FMI Response to Senate AI Surveillance Pricing Hearing

Today [August 4, 2026], FMI – The Food Industry Association Vice President of Tax, Trade, Sustainability and Policy Development Andy Harig issued the following statement regarding today's Senate Judiciary Subcommittee on Crime and Counterterrorism hearing on AI surveillance pricing.

"FMI supports policies that promote transparent, accurate and understandable pricing for consumers. Grocery retailers compete every day to earn shoppers' trust by delivering value, convenience and affordable food, and consumers have more choices than ever about where and how they shop.  

"Food prices are influenced by a wide range of factors, including supply and...

PrimoHoagies Strengthens Operational Excellence Under COO Glen Brandeburg

PrimoHoagies, the award-winning Italian specialty sandwich franchise known for its authentic hoagies, premium ingredients and more than 34 years of family stewardship, is strengthening another critical pillar of its long-term growth strategy through the leadership of Chief Operating Officer Glen Brandeburg.

With more than three decades of restaurant leadership experience spanning corporate operations, franchise support, field leadership, executive management, and multi-brand franchise operations, Brandeburg joins PrimoHoagies to build the operating systems, franchise support infrastructure, and execution discipline that will help the family-owned...

After 3 Months of Decline, Farmer Sentiment Rebounds in July

After three consecutive months of decline, farmer sentiment rebounded as the Purdue University/CME Group Ag Economy Barometer reported an increase of 13 points in July to 126. The Current Conditions Index increased 20 points to 122, while the Future Expectations Index rose 11 points to 129. High input costs remained producers' top concern, with 46% identifying them as the biggest challenge facing their operation. When asked about the biggest challenge to success over the next five to 10 years, 30% of respondents cited crop or livestock prices. The survey...

Portillo’s Appoints Kevin Kalicak as Chief Financial Officer

Portillo’s, the fast-casual restaurant concept known for serving Chicago-style favorites for more than 60 years, today announced the appointment of Kevin Kalicak as Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer, effective September 7, 2026.

Mr. Kalicak joins Portillo’s bringing decades of financial leadership within the restaurant industry, serving in various roles with Darden Restaurants for more than 25 years. As Chief Financial Officer of Portillo’s, he will oversee the company’s finance organization, including financial planning and analysis, accounting, investor relations, internal audit, tax, supply chain and other corporat...

Wingstop Brings Back Carolina Gold and Jamaican Jerk for Limited-Time Flavor Promotion

Wingstop is bringing back its Carolina Gold and Jamaican Jerk wing flavors for a limited time as part of its new Flavor Rodeo promotion, while introducing two new menu additions designed to complement the launch.

Club Wingstop members will receive early access to the returning flavors beginning Aug. 7, with a nationwide rollout starting Aug. 11. The promotion also includes the debut of Hot Honey Mustard Dip and Sprite Strawberry Rodeo, the latter available exclusively at Wingstop restaurants equipped with Coca-Cola Freestyle...

US Expands Forced-Labor Blacklist on China; Tomato and Salmon Producers Targeted

On July 31, the US Department of Homeland Security issued new barriers for trade with China by expanding the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act (UFLPA) Entity List by adding 43 companies. The list expansion marks the largest single increase since the law took effect. So, starting August 3, trade will be blocked from certain Chinese companies making tomatoes, cotton, nuts, salmon, aluminum foil, battery materials, and pharmaceuticals. 

While the action is tariff-adjacent due to the forced labor aspect, this is more of a company and region-specific trade embargo...

ANALYSIS: Japan H1 2026 Beef Imports Rise 4.5% YOY Despite Demand and Currency Headwinds

Japan imported 247,461 metric tons (MT) of beef in the first half of 2026, up 4.5% year-on-year (YOY), according to data from Japan's Trade Statistics.

This marks a partial recovery from the decade low of 496,166 MT recorded in full-year 2025, which was the first time annual imports had fallen below 500,000 MT since 2015.

The H1 gain was partly seasonal, with April's surge to a two-year high of 55,357 MT driven by concentrated Golden Week restocking...

ANALYSIS: Plant Protein Prices Firm as Production Tightens

Soybean production has tightened, according to the latest WASDE report. This has led to firmer soy protein ingredient prices, based on industry feedback. Despite this sentiment, soy protein isolate remains a more affordable option compared to pea protein isolate, which was last assessed at $4.04/Lb, nearly 40% higher on the year.

Soy protein is most used in plant-based alternative products as it is considered a complete nutrition profile, while pea protein is typically chosen by companies formulating products considering allergen concerns...

Sysco Reports Higher Fourth-Quarter Sales, Volume Growth; Sets 2027 Outlook

Sysco reported higher sales, earnings and case volume for the fourth quarter ended June 27, with growth across its US and international foodservice operations while introducing fiscal 2027 guidance that includes productivity gains from artificial intelligence initiatives.

Fourth-quarter sales rose 4.7%, led by a 2.5% increase in US Foodservice case volume and 2.6% growth in local case volume. Gross profit climbed 3.7% to $4.1 billion, operating income increased 10.6% to $983 million and net earnings grew 3.8% to $551 million.

Ockap Caviar & Cuisine Joins Miami Spice With $95 Three-Course Reserve Menu in Brickell

Ockap Caviar & Cuisine will join the 25th edition of Miami Spice Restaurant Months, the Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau’s annual dining program running Aug. 1 through Sept. 30.

The Brickell caviar house, founded by Dominican restaurateur Oscar Andrés Brenes in partnership with Paris-based Ducasse Conseil, is offering a Miami Spice Reserve three-course Experience for $95 at its 1060 Brickell Avenue location.

"We wanted a restaurant that reflects the standards of fine dining without the formality or intimidation that...

US Bank Freight Payment Index: Shippers Pay More as Trucking Capacity Tightens

Truck capacity tightens as shippers pay more for lessShippers paid significantly more to move freight in the second quarter of 2026, even as shipment volumes declined, according to the latest U.S. Bank Freight Payment Index.

National shipment volumes fell 1.1% from the first quarter, marking the second consecutive sequential decline. Compared with a year earlier, shipments were down 2.8%. At the same time, spending increased 6.4% from the prior quarter and 28.1% year over year, reflecting a market in which freight demand remains soft but available capacity has...

McDonald's Appoints Skye Anderson as President of McDonald's USA

McDonald's Corporation today announced that Skye Anderson, a Company executive with more than 26 years of McDonald's experience, has been appointed President, McDonald's USA, effective today. Her appointment reflects the Company's focus on improving everyday restaurant experience, strengthening value offerings for customers and driving long-term profitable growth across the U.S. business. In this role, Anderson will oversee nearly 14,000 restaurants across the United States and lead the Company's largest market as the organization advances McDonald's > NEXT, its strategy to be customers' first choice while unlocking growth and productivity across...