This Week in Retail: Proteins Ads Plentiful and Sporting Attractive YOY Prices

While major buying occasions may be few and far between this time of year, there is no shortage of protein features in grocery circulars.

Representatives from nearly all protein categories grace the front pages of ads this week, with retailers putting special emphasis on roasts and other cold weather cooking applications—you know, the kind that pairs nicely with a root vegetable of sorts. The deep-freeze has set in throughout the Midwest and the Northeast as of late, motivating consumers to stock up on hearty proteins and comfort foods.

Buying opportunities for beef have dominated...

Perdue Foods Appoints David Zucker as its First SVP of E-Commerce and New Ventures

Perdue Foods has announced the appointment of David Zucker as Senior Vice President of E-Commerce and New Ventures, a new position for the company. Zucker will oversee all aspects of Perdue’s e-commerce strategy.

“E-commerce is an increasingly important part of the Perdue Foods growth plan, and we’re pleased that David Zucker is onboard to lead our efforts,” said Mark McKay, President of Perdue Premium Poultry. “We have to meet consumers where ...

Americans to Eat More than 1.3 Billion Chicken Wings for Super Bowl

National Chicken Council calls on President Trump to declare day-after Super Bowl a national holiday

Will Americans be ‘winging it’ for the Big Game? The National Chicken Council (NCC) today released its annual Chicken Wing Report, and the answer is a resounding “yes!” NCC projects Americans’ consumption of the unofficial gameday menu staple – the chicken wing – will hit an all-time high at 1.38 billion wings during Super Bowl LIII weekend, as the Los Angeles Rams and New England Patriots battle for the Lombardi Trophy. This figure is up two percent, or about 27 million wings, from 2018.

As Americans unite around their shared love of the chicken wing during Super Bowl LIII...

Buffalo Wings and Rings Prepares for Huge Wing Sales on Game Day

With the biggest football game of the year approaching on Sunday, February 3, and with the shift in consumer focus to third-party delivery, takeout and catering options, Buffalo Wings & Rings is prepared to offer customers a variety of deals they can enjoy either in a restaurant or in the comfort of their own homes with family and friends.

Gameday deals will include bundled party packs, special pre-order discounts, brand merchandise and more.

“More customers want to enjoy their favorite foods at home, and Buffalo Wings & Rings is proud to offer them that option,” said Buffalo Wings & Rings CEO Nader Masadeh. “This is historically one of our biggest sales days throughout the system, and ...

White Castle Adds New Turkey and Cheddar Slider to Expanding Retail Product Lineup

White Castle, America's first fast-food hamburger chain and pioneer of the slider, today announced the addition of the new Turkey Slider to its expanding and ever-craveable retail product line. The new Turkey Slider, made with a Butterball® all natural white meat turkey patty, topped with smoked cheddar cheese and served on a White Castle signature bun, will begin to arrive on shelves in March and adds to a diverse lineup of retail offerings available at grocery, mass, dollar and convenience stores across the United States.

Since becoming one of the first restaurant brands to offer its menu items in retail over 30 years ago, White Castle has been innovating to add new products that cover every hunger. Today, White Castle's retail lineup has grown beyond hamburgers and cheeseburgers to include ...

USDA Confirms Virulent Newcastle Disease in Backyard Exhibition Birds in Utah

The United States Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) confirmed the presence of virulent Newcastle disease in a small flock of backyard exhibition chickens in Utah County, Utah. This is the first case of virulent Newcastle disease in Utah. This case is believed to be connected to the current outbreak of virulent Newcastle disease in California, as three of the birds at the premises were recently moved to Utah from Los Angeles County, California. Since May 2018, 299 cases of Newcastle disease have been confirmed in Southern California, primarily in backyard exhibition birds.

Virulent Newcastle disease is not a food safety concern. No human cases of Newcastle disease have ever occurred from eating poultry products. Properly cooked poultry products are safe to eat. In very rare instances people working directly with sick birds can become infected. Symptoms are ...

Custom Made Meals, LLC Recalls Chicken Skewer Products Due to Misbranding and Undeclared Allergens

Class I Recall 
Health Risk: High

Custom Made Meals, LLC, a Denver, Colo., establishment, is recalling approximately 7,954 pounds of chicken skewer products due to misbranding and undeclared allergens, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today. The products contain coconut, a known tree nut allergen that is not declared on the product label.

The Red Chili Orange Chicken Skewer items were produced on various dates from Sept. 27, 2018, through Jan. 10, 2019. The following product is subject to recall ... 

Perdue Foods LLC Recalls Chicken Nugget Products Due to Possible Foreign Matter Contamination

Perdue Foods, LLC, a Perry, Ga. establishment, is recalling approximately 68,244 pounds of ready-to-eat chicken nugget products that may be contaminated with extraneous materials, specifically wood, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today.

The ready-to-eat chicken nugget items were produced on Oct. 25, 2018. The following product is subject to recall:

• 22-oz. plastic bag packages of frozen “PERDUE ...

Jon Nash to Lead Cargill’s North American Protein Business 

Cargill has selected Jon Nash to lead its North American protein business. He will report to Brian Sikes, who was recently appointed to the executive team as leader of the company’s global protein and salt businesses.

Nash began his career at Cargill in 1998. Most recently, he was the president of Cargill’s Protein foodservice business, where he strengthened and built strategic customer relationships. He brings a diverse mix of commercial, operations and finance experience. Nash has served as vice president of operations and was the general manager and controller of the ...

Tyson Foods Announces Executive Changes following Keystone Acquisition

As part of the integration of recently acquired Keystone Foods and the company’s global growth efforts, Tyson Foods, Inc. (NYSE: TSN) today announced changes to the enterprise leadership team that reports directly to President and CEO Noel White, effective January 28, 2019. They include:

• Chad Martin, who has served as senior vice president and general manager, Beef Enterprise for Tyson Fresh Meats, is being promoted to group president, Poultry. Martin joined IBP, inc., which later became Tyson Fresh Meats, in 1996. He has since has held a number of management positions in the U.S. and Canada, previously serving as the vice president of strategy and margin enhancement of the company’s beef business.
• Donnie King, who previously worked as Tyson Foods’ president of North American operations, is returning to lead the company’s international business as ...

Consumer Price Index Slips in December; Up 1.9 Percent Overall in 2018

The Bureau of Labor Statistics has released the latest Consumer Price Index (CPI) data for December, showing a 0.1 percent decline for the month, following no change in November.

The CPI measures the change in prices paid by consumers for goods and services, and is broken out by spending category. Last month’s lower index was attributed to a sharp decrease in the gasoline index, which fell 7.5 percent in December.

The food index rose 0.4 percent in December, which the BLS said was the largest increase since May 2014. The food at home index rose 0.3 percent, mostly on increases in the indexes for fruits and vegetables. The index for meats, poultry, fish and eggs was unchanged. The food away from home index was up 0.4 percent, with indexes for both full service meals and limited service meals increasing...

USDA Confirms Virulent Newcastle Disease in a Third Commercial Chicken Flock in California

The United States Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) confirmed virulent Newcastle disease in a third commercial poultry flock in California. The latest case is in a commercial layer flock in Riverside County. This finding is part of an outbreak in southern California that began in May 2018 in backyard exhibition birds.

Virulent Newcastle disease is not a food safety concern. No human cases of Newcastle disease have ever occurred from eating poultry products. Properly cooked poultry products are safe to eat. In very rare instances people working directly with sick birds can become infected. Symptoms are usually very mild, and limited to conjunctivitis and ...

This Week in Retail: Outlook for January

It’s the start of a new year, and there is no shortage of potentially impactful elements to consider as we look ahead to 2019.

Consumer spending seems to have ended 2018 on a high note, with reports of strong job growth and wages helping to boost spending during the holiday season. Consumer sentiment, according to the University of Michigan, also rose in December and remains at record favorable levels. In fact, 2018 was the best year since 2000, says U of M.

Kicking off the year, however, we are still in a period of uncertainty regarding global trade and complications stemming from the U.S. government shutdown. Negotiations have progressed with China and the EU, which has helped boost stock market sentiment in recent days, though final outcomes are still unknown.

In the retail space, we enter a stretch in which spending is... 

Urner Barry Announces Keynote Speaker for the 2019 Executive Conference in Las Vegas

Urner Barry’s 2019 Executive Conference is just around the corner, and we are so excited to announce this year’s keynote speaker will be (drumroll please…) Arby’s President Rob Lynch!

That’s right. Rob Lynch, along with a host of top speakers and strategists, will be headlining this must-attend event at the Bellagio in Las Vegas, April 28-30^th.  

Rob Lynch serves as President of Arby’s, part of Inspire Brands. Inspire is a multi-brand restaurant company whose portfolio includes more than 8,300 Arby’s, Buffalo Wild Wings, SONIC Drive-In, and Rusty Taco locations worldwide.

Inspire Brands closed out 2018 with the $2.3 billion acquisition of Sonic Corp, making it the fifth largest restaurant company in the U.S...

USDA Confirms Virulent Newcastle Disease in a Commercial Chicken Flock in California

The United States Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) confirmed virulent Newcastle disease in a second commercial poultry flock in California. The latest case is in a commercial layer flock in Riverside County. This finding is part of an outbreak in southern California that began in May 2018 in backyard exhibition birds.

Virulent Newcastle disease is not a food safety concern. No human cases of Newcastle disease have ever occurred from eating poultry products. Properly cooked poultry products are safe to eat. In very rare instances people working directly with sick birds can become infected. Symptoms are usually very mild, and limited to conjunctivitis and/or influenza-like symptoms. Infection is easily prevented by using ...

Firehouse Subs Brings the Heat with New Spicy Cajun Chicken Sub

To kick off Firehouse Subs' 25th anniversary year, the brand debuts its latest result of menu innovation, the Spicy Cajun Chicken Sub. Available now for a limited time in all U.S. and Puerto Rico restaurants*, this sub is a hearty serving of Cajun-seasoned grilled chicken breast with zesty cherry peppers, melted Pepper Jack cheese and house-made Cajun mayo, served steaming hot on Firehouse Subs' signature toasted sub roll, available in white or wheat.

At $5.55 for a medium Spicy Cajun Chicken Sub**, Firehouse Subs guests can enjoy the brand's newest menu item at an affordable price that delivers the unmatched quality, portions and flavor they expect and enjoy. Additionally, guests can make their sub a combo with ...

Dairy Queen System Offers Premium Meal at a Value Price

Signature Chicken Strip Basket offered for only $4.99 for a limited time

The Dairy Queen® system is kicking off the New Year by offering its premium Chicken Strip Basket for the value price of $4.99, available at participating DQ® and DQ Grill & Chill® locations nationwide during the month of January only.

Fans will enjoy the $4.99 Chicken Strip Basket filled with succulent chicken strips made from 100 percent all white meat chicken tenderloins, Texas toast and crispy fries, served with a choice of dipping sauce including warm country gravy, new zesty queso, ranch or ...

When it Seemed People were Growing more Detached from Farming, “Generation Yum” Delivered a Surprise

Young people are living up to the “Generation Yum” label coined by author Eve Turow with their connection to the people, places and practices that raise our food—according to new research from Cargill.

“I’m thrilled that people are deepening their understanding of agriculture,” said Hilary Maricle, co-owner of Maricle Family Farms in Nebraska, U.S., and mom of five. “By creating harmony between farmers and consumers, we can help people appreciate where their food comes from—and how innovative practices are creating healthier, more sustainable farms ...

On the Border Kicks Off Endless Tacos Starting January 7th

Endless Crunchy and Soft Tacos for just $8.99

To kick the new year off with a delicious start, On The Border Mexican Grill & Cantina® will be offering guests the opportunity to enjoy as many Seasoned Ground Beef or Chicken Tinga tacos as they want for just $8.99, all day, any day. The tasty deal starts Monday, January 7, and will be available at all participating On The Border restaurants for a limited time.

"Endless Tacos is for all taco lovers out there," said Rebecca Miller, Senior Vice President of Marketing for On The Border. "Endless Tacos at OTB means endless opportunity for our guests to enjoy their favorite tacos round after round ...

Del Taco Continues to Lead Value with Launch of Bold New Mix2 Value Menu

QSR value leader kicks off 2019 with new mix & match 2 for $4 and 2 for $5 value menu platform

Del Taco Restaurants, Inc. (NASDAQ: TACO), the nation’s second leading Mexican quick service restaurant,* is further building on its heritage as the value leader in the industry with the introduction of its new Mix2 Menu. An unbeatable value, Del Taco’s Mix2 Menu allows guests to mix and match two fresh, quality menu items from a selection of fan-favorites for just $4 and $5.**

“In a landscape that’s saturated with limited item five- and six-dollar offers, Del Taco is drawing on its legacy as the value leader in the fast food space to deliver unmatched flavor per dollar,” said Barry Westrum, Del Taco’s Chief Marketing Officer. “Not only are we offering a combination of craveable items for an unbeatable price, but these are products that really show how we’re changing the game in the fast food category ...

Cargill Reports Fiscal 2019 Second-Quarter Results

Cargill performs reliably in a dynamic, uncertain environment

Cargill today reported results for the fiscal 2019 second quarter and first half ended Nov. 30, 2018. Key measures include:

• Adjusted operating earnings were $853 million, down 10 percent from the $948 million earned in last year’s strong comparative period. This brought first-half earnings to $1.74 billion, a 5 percent decrease from the prior year.
• Net earnings on a U.S. GAAP basis for the quarter were $741 million, a 20 percent decline from $924 million in the year-ago period. For the half, net earnings dipped 7 percent to $1.76 billion.
• Second-quarter revenues decreased 4 percent to ...

NCC Submits Comments on Cell-Cultured Meat Products

The National Chicken Council (NCC) on December 26 submitted comments to USDA’S Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) emphasizing the importance of coordinating regulatory efforts between FDA and FSIS to leverage each agency’s knowledge and expertise on the subject of cell-cultured meat products.

The National Chicken Council (NCC) appreciates the opportunity to provide comments on the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Request for Public Comments on the Use of Cellular Agriculture to Manufacture Products Derived from Livestock and Poultry Stem Cells. NCC represents vertically integrated companies that produce and process more than 95 percent of the chicken marketed in the United States ...

All you can Eat Riblets and Chicken Tenders Back at Applebee’s and Better with Double Crunch Shrimp

Get Ready to Get Satisfied with Mountains of Riblets, Tenders or Shrimp for a Limited Time

Starting today, the famous, mouth-watering, All You Can Eat Riblets & Chicken Tenders returns to Applebee’s® restaurants nationwide, but that’s not all – this all-star cast also features Double Crunch Shrimp. This new Applebee's All You Can Eat Riblets, Chicken Tenders & Double Crunch Shrimp menu starts at just $14.99 for your favorite meats plus a side of Coleslaw and All You Can Eat Classic Fries. Hurry in, because this unlimited feast will only be around for a limited time.

“Our All You Can Eat Riblets & Chicken Tenders limited time offer was a smashing success in 2018, and we’re excited to bring it back to kick off 2019, but we’ve made the guest-favorite even better ...

Chipotle Launches Lifestyle Bowls so Customers can Achieve New Year's Wellness Resolutions

Paleo, Keto, Whole30® and Double Protein-approved options are now available for delivery exclusively through Chipotle's mobile app and website

Chipotle Mexican Grill (NYSE: CMG) today announced the launch of a new collection of Lifestyle Bowls, just in time for New Year's Resolutions. The new line includes a Paleo Salad Bowl, Keto Salad Bowl, Whole30® Salad Bowl and Double Protein Bowl, all exclusively available through the mobile app and on the Chipotle website for in-restaurant pickup or delivery. These first-to-category, diet-driven menu offerings are helping those who have committed to living a healthier lifestyle by making it easy to order delicious bowls that only contain the real ingredients permitted by certain diet regimens.

One notable expert showing support for the launch is Whole30® co-founder Melissa Hartwig Urban. "We are always looking for ways to make the Whole30 easier and more accessible, and travel has always been a pain point. It's not always easy to find ...

R. L. Zeigler Co., Inc. Recalls Chicken and Pork Red Hot Sausage Products 

Class I Recall 
Health Risk: High

R. L. Zeigler Co., Inc., a Selma, Ala. establishment, is recalling approximately 11,664 pounds of ready-to-eat (RTE) poultry and meat sausage products that may be contaminated with extraneous materials, specifically metal, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today.

The RTE Red Hot chicken and pork sausage items were produced on Nov. 29, 2018. The following products are subject to recall ...

Chick-fil-A’s Most-Ordered Menu Items of 2018

When the craving strikes, every Chick-fil-A fanatic has their go-to menu item, whether a savory classic or a sweet frosted treat. But have you ever wondered how popular your favorite menu item is nationwide? The results are in, and we’ve identified the top 10 most-loved, most-ordered and most-craved Chick-fil-A menu items of 2018*:

10. Spicy Deluxe Sandwich

This sandwich brought the heat throughout 2018. Bolder and zestier than our Original Chicken Sandwich, the Spicy Deluxe is seasoned with a blend of peppers and served with pepper jack cheese for that extra zing.

9. Chicken Biscuit

Our biscuits are baked fresh throughout the morning and are a delicious way to start the day! Whether you eat yours plain or pair it with honey, jam or your favorite Chick-fil-A sauce, our iconic Chicken Biscuit is the best way to wake up your taste buds...

MegaBites are Back at Church's Chicken - Now in New Buttermilk Ranch

Fan Favorite Returns With a Tangy New Flavor Twist Starting December 27th

One of Church's Chicken's® most popular innovations in boneless chicken – Chicken MegaBites™ – has returned to Church's restaurants nationwide for a limited time only, now with a tangy new flavor twist. Beginning December 27, guests may choose between new Buttermilk Ranch or Original Chicken MegaBites when creating their own $3, $5 or $10 meals.

Buttermilk Ranch MegaBites are all white meat chicken bites, hand battered and breaded in Church's signature coating and cooked to a golden crisp. Before serving, MegaBites are then tossed in Church's tangy, herbed buttermilk ranch seasoning. The innovative preparation technique creates a burst of zesty ranch flavor that comes from the chicken itself ...

Sanderson Farms, Inc. Reports Results for Fourth Quarter and Fiscal 2018

Sanderson Farms, Inc. (NASDAQ: SAFM) today reported results for the fourth quarter and fiscal year ended October 31, 2018.

Net sales for the fourth quarter of fiscal 2018 were $798.1 million compared with $919.9 million for the same period a year ago. For the quarter, the Company reported a net loss of $43.2 million, or $1.95 per share, compared with net income of $72.9 million, or $3.20 per share, for the fourth quarter of fiscal 2017.

Net sales for fiscal 2018 were $3.236 billion compared with $3.342 billion for fiscal 2017. Net income for the fiscal year totaled $61.4 million, or $2.70 per share, compared with ...

McDonald’s Refocuses Value Efforts as Customers Seek Savings this Holiday Season and in the New Year

Company brings back 2 for $5 Mix & Match Deal including 100% fresh beef* Quarter Pounder® with Cheese, announces enhancements to $1 $2 $3 Dollar Menu

As part of McDonald’s ongoing efforts to serve up more of the delicious food our customers crave at a great value, we’re pleased to bring back the 2 for $5 Mix & Match Deal on December 21 for a limited time at participating restaurants nationwide.

With the return of the 2 for $5 Mix & Match Deal, customers can choose two craveable and delicious menu items at a great value. Burger fans will rejoice thanks to the introduction of a new headliner: the hot and deliciously juicy 100% fresh beef Quarter Pounder with Cheese. The fresh beef Quarter Pounder with Cheese is an exciting addition to the lineup, which also includes iconic menu options that we know our customers love like ...

Giant Deal Alert: Wendy's Giant Jr. Bacon Cheeseburger $5 Meal Deal Returns

Double doesn't always have to mean trouble. Especially when it means getting double the fresh, never-frozen beef* and double the Applewood smoked bacon. Introducing, the Giant JBC, a giant way to enjoy twice the fresh, never frozen beef you love from Wendy's.

This beefed-up cheeseburger is made even bigger with the giant-junior $5 meal deal that comes with it. Fans can get the Giant JBC, made with two fresh, never frozen beef patties, Applewood smoked bacon and a slice of melty American cheese, plus 4-piece chicken nuggets, small fries and a small drink for only ...

Russ Davis Wholesale, Inc. Recalls Chicken Wrap Products Due to Misbranding and Undeclared Allergens

Class I Recall 
Health Risk: High

Russ Davis Wholesale, Inc., a Pueblo, Colo. establishment, is recalling approximately 956 pounds of ready-to-eat poultry products due to misbranding and undeclared allergens, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today. The product contains eggs, a known allergen, which is not declared on the product label.

The ready-to-eat chicken Caesar wrap items were produced on various dates from Nov. 12, 2018 through Dec. 16, 2018. The following product is subject to recall ...

USDA Confirms Virulent Newcastle Disease in a Commercial Chicken Flock in California

The United States Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) confirmed the presence of virulent Newcastle disease in a commercial chicken flock in Riverside County, California. This finding is part of an outbreak in southern California that began in May 2018 in backyard birds. This is the first case in commercial poultry since 2003.

Virulent Newcastle disease is not a food safety concern. No human cases of Newcastle disease have ever occurred from eating poultry products. Properly cooked poultry products are safe to eat. In very rare instances people working directly with sick birds can become infected. Symptoms are usually very mild, and limited to conjunctivitis and/or influenza-like symptoms. Infection is easily prevented by using standard personal protective equipment.

APHIS is working closely with the California Department of Food and Agriculture to respond to the finding, limiting the disease’s spread in commercial poultry ...

This Week in Retail: Latest Consumer Price Data; Weekly Features Worth Noticing

Looking at the breakdown of retail buying opportunities this week, beef and seafood are tied for the top spot, each claiming 24.6 percent of protein ad volume. Pork accounts for 22.5 percent of feature activity, while chicken makes up 19.1 percent.

Latest CPI Data

The latest Consumer Price Index (CPI) for November was released by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, showing the CPI unchanged during the month, following a 0.3 percent rise in October. The food index, however, rose 0.2 percent.

The index for food away from home rose 0.3 percent, which was the largest increase since... 

KFC is Now Selling a Firelog that Smells like its Fried Chicken, but Supplies are Limited

A warm, cozy, crackling fireplace - that smells like fried chicken? KFC is selling a limited-edition firelog that will fill your home with the scent of the Colonel’s Original Recipe fried chicken.

Just in time for winter, KFC is bringing the heat.

Kentucky Fried Chicken doesn't have a new spicy sandwich but rather a firelog that smells like its fried chicken.

The limited edition 11 Herbs & Spices Firelog costs $18.99 and is available while supplies last at www.kfcfirelogs.com. The price includes tax, shipping and handling.

"The smell of the Colonel’s Original Recipe fried chicken is unmistakable," the fast-food chain said in a statement, noting it worked with Enviro-Log to create "the ultimate winter necessity ...

Taco Bell Unveils New Cravings Value Menu Offerings that are Beyond Belief

Taco Bell Continues to Redefine Value with Unbelievable New $1 Grande Burritos and Cravings Meals for $5

In a time when value menus are either shrinking portion sizes, walking away from creating innovative $1 products, or forcing fans to buy food they don't want, Taco Bell is doing something, well, beyond belief. From new $1 Grande Burritos to popular $5 Cravings Box, it's wrapping up fan favorites into a revamped, unified menu called the Cravings Value Menu, continuing its unwavering commitment to give fans food they crave starting December 27.

The Cravings Value Menu is packed with a vast array of flavorful, filling and innovative decadence ranging from $1 and $5. Taco Bell kicks off this new menu with the limited time offering of the $1 Grande Burrito in two varieties ...

Grubhub Releases Annual "Year In Food" Report Detailing Most Popular Dining Trends Of 2018

While vegan-friendly bean burritos top the chart, chicken rules the roost when it comes to food preferences

Grubhub, the nation's leading online and mobile food-ordering and delivery marketplace, today released findings from its annual "Year in Food" report. To find out what food trends shaped the year (or didn't), Grubhub analyzed millions of orders placed by more than 16 million diners on its platform and surveyed consumers across the country on their ordering tastes and eating habits.

Key takeaways include

Amboy Group, LLC Recalls Poultry Products Due to Misbranding and Undeclared Allergens

Class I Recall 
Health Risk: High

Amboy Group, LLC, a Woodbridge, N.J. establishment, is recalling an undetermined amount of raw boneless and skinless poultry products because the products are misbranded and may contain milk, egg, and soy, known allergens, which are not declared on the finished product label, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today. 

The raw boneless and skinless poultry products were produced on various dates from Dec. 5, 2016 through Dec. 5, 2018. The following products are subject to recall ...

Stampede Meat Newly Renovated Facility Opens

Stampede Meat celebrates the grand opening of its New Mexico plant after a $36 million investment 

The newly renovated facility will drive immediate growth for Stampede and create 1,295 new jobs

Stampede Meat, Inc., announced its grand opening today at a ribbon cutting ceremony, just five short months after announcing the company's expansion outisde of Illinois for the first time in its 24-year history. Stampede will invest more than $36 million to renovate and reopen the former Tyson Foods facility in Sunland Park, New Mexico. Over the next year, the facility will increase Stampede's existing 285,000 square footage and 190 million-pound capacity by more than half. Once fully utilized, the facility will support $300 to 400 million in incremental top line growth.

Stampede Meat CEO and President Brock Furlong was joined by New Mexico Economic Development Department Cabinet Secretary Matt Geisel at the ceremony. "We are poised to have our single largest sales growth in our 24-year history, due in no small part to this critical investment ...

Shake Shack's First Store in Mainland China will be Settled in Shanghai Xintiandi in Early 2019

The burger shop Shake Shack from New York will be settled in the north of Shanghai Xintiandi in early 2019. As the first store in the Mainland, Shake Shack will bring a variety of signature dishes to give guests a taste of authenticity.

Shake Shack has teamed up with Hong Kong Maxim Group to bring together Shanghai's local contractors, producers and artists to bring a refreshing cultural experience to everyone before opening.

Innovative visual artist Bruce Cui has been exploring and trying to create a new inspiration for various trend symbols and modern art. This cross-border cooperation combines the representative elements of Shanghai urban culture with Shake Shack's iconic menu ...

FAO Food Price Index Registered Another Decline in November

The FAO Food Price Index* (FFPI) averaged 160.8 points in November 2018, down 2.1 points (1.3 percent) from October, the lowest since May 2016, and nearly 15 points (8.5 percent) below its level in the corresponding period last year. The decline in November was led by much weaker vegetable oil, dairy and cereal prices. Meat values also fell, though slightly, while sugar prices firmed.

The FAO Cereal Price Index averaged almost 164 points in November, some 1.7 points (1.1 percent) below October and 11 points (7.1 percent) down from November 2016 average. Large nearby export supplies weighed on wheat prices while intensified export competition put downward pressure on maize quotations. New crop arrivals continued to weigh on rice export quotations despite some support provided by demand from the Philippines and expectations of lower fragrant rice production in some key exporting countries.

The FAO Vegetable Oil Price Index averaged 125.3 points in November, down 7.6 points (5.7 percent) month-on-month, marking the tenth consecutive monthly fall and a twelve-year low. The decline reflects... 

NCC Launches New Website with Information on How Broiler Chickens Are Raised and Produced in the US

Platform Debuts Amidst New Survey Data Revealing Chicken Consumption Out of Home Is Growing and Consumers’ Desire More Information About the Chicken They Buy and Eat

Recognizing consumers’ desire for more information when they’re dining out, the National Chicken Council (NCC) recently launched a new website designed exclusively for foodservice and culinary professionals to learn more about how the chicken served to their patrons is raised and processed. The new Chicken Check In Foodservice website provides information on how broiler chickens (chickens raised for meat) are raised and produced in the U.S., including frequently asked questions, a glossary of chicken labeling terms, and additional resources.

According to the 2018 US Chicken Consumption Report:

Chicken consumption out of home is growing and consumers want to learn more …

This Week in Retail: YOY Feature Price Comparison

It’s hard to believe there are only three weekends left to shop and prepare for Christmas. In the coming weeks, grocers will be pulling out all the stops to capitalize on consumer holiday spending.

Looking at buying opportunities in the current week, beef feature volume leads the protein pack with 25.2 percent. Seafood is a very close second with 24.7 percent, while pork claims 23.2 percent. Chicken accounts for 18.7 percent of feature volume.

In the beef complex, steak feature volume saw a larger week over week increase, with top sirloin taking the top spot with 19.1 percent. The average feature price for top sirloin this week is $6.02 per pound, which is up about 50 cents per pound from a year ago, and up from last week’s average of $5.24 per pound. However, more comparatively attractive year-over-year steak features can be found in... 

Chicken Fight: Are Chicken Strips Cannibalizing Chicken Nugget Servings At Foodservice?

Product innovation and new fast casual chicken concepts reinvent chicken strips

Not since the classic why did the chicken cross the road? question has there been such a puzzling chicken question as this: Are chicken strips cannibalizing chicken nugget servings at foodservice? Chicken strip servings at restaurants and foodservice outlets increased by 16 percent in the quarter ending September 2018 compared to same period last year whereas chicken nugget servings declined by 3 percent, reports The NPD Group. The logical answer is that fans of breaded chicken are swapping out nuggets for strips. The correct answer: No they’re not.

Chicken nuggets lost buyers but these buyers were not...

Taziki’s Mediterranean Café Launches New Innovative App

Customers to Receive Offers And Better Ordering Experience

Taziki's Mediterranean Café Launches New Innovative AppBirmingham, AL (Restaurant News Release) Taziki’s Mediterranean Café, recently named one of Inc. 5000’s fastest growing companies, has seen an impressive rise in online ordering and to-go sales in 2018.

During the past three years, the company has experienced an over 200% increase in the amount of online and to-go orders.

As a result, Taziki’s is focusing on efficiency and improving the customer experience with the ordering process. The restaurant is working to create more convenient ways to order ahead, both with a mobile app and online ordering options ...

Sanderson Farms, Inc. Announces Change in Antibiotic Use Program

Sanderson Farms, Inc. (NASDAQ: SAFM) announced that it will discontinue by March 1, 2019, using antibiotics considered medically important for humans for disease prevention in its live poultry operations.

The change follows the completion of an independent study the Company commissioned earlier this year on its antibiotics program for its live operations. As part of its ongoing animal welfare and antibiotic stewardship efforts, the Company commissioned an advisory board of scientific experts in poultry production, livestock management, and antibiotic use in veterinary and human medicine to study and report on the Company’s use of antibiotics in its live poultry production operations...

Tyson Foods Completes Acquisition of Keystone Foods

Purchase supports Tyson Foods’ valued-added and international growth strategies

Tyson Foods, Inc. (NYSE: TSN) has successfully completed the acquisition of Keystone Foods from Marfrig Global Foods. The purchase of Keystone, a leading supplier of chicken, beef, fish and pork to the growing global foodservice industry, aligns with Tyson Foods’ domestic and international growth strategy.

“Our biggest growth opportunities are in value-added foods and international markets. Our acquisition of Keystone helps us achieve both,” said Noel White, president and CEO of Tyson Foods. “The addition of Keystone’s team, industry expertise and international operations strengthens our capabilities. I’m pleased to welcome our newest team members ...

This Week in Retail: December Meat and Poultry Outlook 

Thanksgiving is now behind us, but that doesn’t mean the retail uproar has ceased. As we roll into December, there is still much grocery shopping and planning to be done—giving retailers only a brief moment to restock and switch gears for the holidays.

In December, there are several dynamics that arise and we tend to see some strong seasonal influences playing out in both the wholesale and retail markets.

After a brief runup in prices during the mid to late November period, wholesale beef prices tend to sort of patter out as we close on the year. Once orders for the holidays are filled (standing rib roast, anyone?) the market softens and finishes out flat. Retail, on the other hand, sees some of the highest prices of the year in late December. No surprise there, as top-quality beef cuts are the big-ticket items at the holiday. Looking at Urner Barry’s Weekly Beef Retail Index, the 3-year average price for the third week in December is $6.79 per pound, which compares to the yearly average of $6.03 per pound. After that, retail beef prices historically don’t get another boost until...

Cargill expands its global poultry business in Colombia with acquisition of CAMPOLLO

Acquisition will grow Cargill’s Colombian poultry operations to better serve its Latin American customers, welcoming more than 2,500 new employees

Cargill has acquired Colombian-based CAMPOLLO, one of the country’s leading producers of chicken and protein products.

The acquisition marks the expansion of Cargill’s global protein business in Colombia after acquiring Pollos Bucanero in June 2017. CAMPOLLO has more than 20 years’ experience in the market and its products are a top choice among consumers and retailers across Colombia.

Jorge Ivan Duque, general manager of Cargill’s Pollos Bucanero, will continue leading Cargill’s expanded poultry business in Colombia. He has spent the past 13 years working in the poultry sector in Central America and Colombia...

Cargill Commits to Growth in Malaysia as it Celebrates 40th Anniversary in Country

Growth addresses increasing demand for specialized oils, chocolate, specialty ingredients and animal protein

Cargill is reaffirming its commitment to grow its business in Malaysia as the company celebrates its 40th anniversary in the country. Since it opened its first office here in 1978, Cargill has invested close to $450 million (USD) / RM1.8
billion (MYR) to strengthen its operations here. Today, the company is present at nine locations and employs more than 750 employees locally.

Business growth in Malaysia is coming from strong global demand for specialized oils and fats; regional demand for chocolate and specialty ingredients; and local demand for more chicken and seafood products...

Cargill Grows Business in Philippines with $235 Million (USD) Planned Investment

Company marks 70th anniversary in the country

Cargill has reaffirmed its commitment to the Philippines with plans to invest $235 million (USD) / P12.5 billion (PHP) to grow its business in the country over the next two years. The company is focused on helping meet the increased domestic demand for chicken and pork, as well as delivering solutions in key areas of the global agricultural supply chain. The company has also announced a contribution of $130,000 (USD) / P7 million (PHP) to support the Inclusive Business Capacity Building Fund to help Filipino farmers become more successful.

“We are proud to have been in the Philippines since we started our business here 70 years ago. Working closely with the government, our customers, partners and the community, we are helping farmers thrive and are bringing safe and nutritious food to Filipino tables...

Steak ‘n Shake Introduces New 444 Menu

Steak ‘n Shake, America’s original premium burger and shake restaurant, offers the best deal in the burger industry with its new 444 menu featuring meals with four items – entree, fries, choice of side and a cookie – for just $3.99.

Guests can order their choice of the Original Double ‘n Cheese Steakburger, the Bacon ‘n Cheese Single Steakburger, the Triple Steakburger or Chicken Fingers and...

Wendy's New Bacon Maple Chicken Sandwich, Where Sweet Meets Savory Meets Convenience

It's a sandwich that's three years in the making – because you don't rush greatness…you just don't. Introducing Wendy's newest artisan bread masterpiece: the Bacon Maple Chicken Sandwich. This limited-time sandwich brings completely craveable flavors to the most wonderful time of year.

The Bacon Maple Chicken Sandwich is made with all the sweet and savory flavors you love – complete with a hot, crispy Homestyle chicken fillet, swiss cheese, three strips of sizzling Applewood smoked bacon, and just when you thought it couldn't get any better...

Maple Leaf Foods to Construct World-Class Value-Added Poultry Facility in London, Ontario

Maple Leaf Foods (TSX: MFI) today announced plans to build a $660 million value-added fresh poultry facility in London, Ontario.

The new 640,000 square feet facility is expected to be one of the most technologically advanced poultry-processing plants in the world, with leading-edge food safety, environmental, and animal welfare processes and technologies.

Funding for the project includes a capital investment of approximately $605.5 million from Maple Leaf Foods, an investment of $34.5 million from the Government of Ontario and a $20 million investment from the Government of Canada under the Strategic Innovation Fund. In addition, the Company is receiving a $8 million loan from the AgriInnovate Fund. As part of the federal funding agreement, Maple Leaf will invest a further $5 million over... 

Chunwei, Inc. Recalls Meat and Poultry Products Due to Misbranding and Undeclared Allergens 

Chunwei, Inc., a Huntington Park, Calif. establishment, is recalling approximately 65,023 pounds of various ready-to-eat and raw meat and poultry products because the products are misbranded and may contain soy, wheat, dairy, egg, and sesame, known allergens, as well as monosodium glutamate (MSG), which are not declared on the finished product label, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today.

The products were produced on various dates from Nov. 16, 2017 through Nov. 19, 2018. The products subject to recall...

Quaker Steak & Lube Rolls out New All-Day and Limited-Time Offer Menus

Together with its franchise partners, ** Quaker Steak & Lube, one of the nation’s leading family casual-dining restaurant chains, has announced the launch of its new menu, which includes many fan-favorite classics along with new flavor combinations to provide guests with fresh and on-trend dining options, while staying true to the restaurant’s roots. The brand has also rolled out a new limited-time offer menu that includes a heartier lineup for the fall and winter seasons with options that...

Deleite Foods Enterprises, Inc. Recalls Poultry Products Due to Misbranding and Undeclared Allergens

Class II Recall
Health Risk: Low

Deleite Foods Enterprises, Inc., a Salt Lake City, Utah establishment, is recalling approximately 11,000 pounds of marinated raw poultry products due to misbranding and undeclared allergens, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today. The products contain wheat and soy, known allergens, which are not declared on the product label.

The marinated diced chicken thigh meat was produced and packaged on Oct. 12, 15, and 16, 2018. The following products are subject to recall...

Meat Institute Testifies at Hearing Assessing Economic Impact of New U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement

SVP of International Affairs Bill Westman underscores importance of North American trade for U.S. meat sector

North American Meat Institute (Meat Institute) Senior Vice President of International Affairs Bill Westman today emphasized the critical importance of the Canadian and Mexican export markets to the long-term economic strength of the U.S. meat and livestock sectors in testimony before the U.S. International Trade Commission. During the hearing, which sought input on the economic impact of the new U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), Westman affirmed that...

Rabobank: Global Food Price Stability in 2019 Threatened by Trade Wars, Disease and El Niño

A “melting pot” of risks – including US trade war with China, disease and extreme weather – threaten global food price stability next year, according to research from Rabobank, the specialist food and agribusiness bank.

In its annual Outlook reports, which analyse the prospects for more than 15 agricultural commodities, meat and seafood, Rabobank says that while the global food price environment remains relatively stable, ongoing geopolitical tension, the threat of El Niño weather system and diseases affecting livestock bring great uncertainty to the outlook for 2019.

Stefan Vogel, head of agri commodity markets at Rabobank and report co-author, said: “The agri commodity price environment may be relatively stable currently, but it’s difficult to remember a time there were so many threats to...

Ron's Home Style Foods Recalls RTE Chicken Salad Products on Possible Listeria Contamination

Ron’s Home Style Foods, a Houston, Texas establishment, is recalling approximately 6,912 pounds of ready-to-eat (RTE) chicken salad products that may be adulterated with Listeria monocytogenes, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today.

The RTE chicken salad items were produced and packaged on October 22, 2018. The following products are subject to recall...

Chick-fil-A Announces Nationwide Delivery Service, Partners with DoorDash

Starting today, the restaurant company is officially offering delivery from more than 1,100 of its restaurants nationwide as part of a partnership with DoorDash, the on-demand destination connecting customers to their favorite national and local businesses.

In celebration of the partnership, Chick-fil-A and DoorDash will give away up to 200,000 free Chick-fil-A Chicken Sandwiches (one per customer in participating cities) from now until Tuesday, November 20, 2018, when placing an order through DoorDash. The giveaway is exclusively available through...

KFC Introduces Chicken & Waffles to the Menu

Fried chicken from the experts + one-of-a-kind Belgian Liege-style waffles = Kentucky Fried Chicken & Waffles

Kentucky Fried Chicken(R) -- the original chicken purveyor-- is making a formerly upscale brunch favorite available to everyone with the introduction of its new Kentucky Fried Chicken & Waffles, available for a limited time only. With Kentucky Fried Chicken & Waffles, you can forget the reservations, long lines and expensive checks and get back to what really matters: the food.

"Our famous extra crispy, savory fried chicken atop a Belgian Liege-style waffle, with the finishing touch of classic Mrs. Butterworth's syrup, makes for a scrumptious dish I'd put up against versions at upscale restaurants, but we're offering it at a price just about anyone can afford. And it can be enjoyed at KFCs across the country for brunch, lunch or dinner...

NuVue Foods Recalls Burrito Products Due to Misbranding and an Undeclared Allergen

Class I Recall 
Health Risk: High

NuVue Foods, a Hamtramck, Mich. establishment, is recalling approximately 268 pounds of ready-to-eat (RTE) chicken burrito products due to misbranding and an undeclared allergen, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today. The products contain egg, a known allergen, which was not declared on the product label.

The RTE chicken burrito items were produced on October 31, 2018. The following products are subject to recall...

Jimmy Dean Brand Petitions Merriam-webster to Change the Definition of Sandwich

This National Sandwich Day, Jimmy Dean Brand Calls for Recognition of all Types of Sandwiches – Bread and Breadless Alike – in Honor of Jimmy Dean Delights® Egg’wich

The Jimmy Dean® brand believes the current definition of sandwich is stale. Americans’ culinary preferences are evolving, with more than one in three Americans* vowing to eat less bread in the new year. In fact, a recent study* found that half of Americans have eaten a breadless sandwich. Timed to National Sandwich Day (November 3) and the launch of the Jimmy Dean Delights® Egg’wich sandwich, Jimmy Dean brand is calling on Americans to help get all sandwiches a seat at the dictionary’s proverbial kitchen table – and SIGN A PETITION to update the definition of sandwich to represent both bread and breadless options...

This Week in Retail: Aggressive Features Grab Busy Consumers’ Attention

This week in retail, beef features claim the number one spot with 23 percent, followed closely by seafood and pork, both just shy of 23 percent. Chicken ads account for 19 percent of total protein volume. Turkey features have risen to account for 7 percent of total protein volume, compared to 5 percent the previous week and just 3 percent the week before that. 

Frozen turkeys make up 51 percent of total turkey ads this week—up from 29 percent the previous week.  Feature prices for frozen turkey range from 91 cents per pound to $1.02 on average.

Elsewhere in the meat case, busy shoppers can pick up 80% lean ground beef at cheaper prices than a year ago. Averaging $3.19 per pound this week, ground beef is 12 percent lower YOY. Additionally, more roasts are finding their way into shopping carts as the weather gets increasingly cold. The roast complex averages $4.77 per pound this week, 24 cents per pound over a year ago.

Meanwhile, pork roasts average just... 

Perdue AgriBusiness Chooses Tradepoint Atlantic for New Organic Grain Facility

Perdue AgriBusiness, a division of Perdue Farms, announced today a $30 million investment to open an organic grain receiving and storage facility at Tradepoint Atlantic in eastern Baltimore County to meet the rising demand for organic feed ingredients for Perdue Foods and other companies in the region. The facility will also include grain and oilseed processing/milling and support more than 25 new jobs.

“Tradepoint Atlantic at the Port of Baltimore is ideally located to receive grain and supply organic customers throughout the Mid-Atlantic region,” said Dick Willey, president, Perdue AgriBusiness. “We work directly with local farmers and traders in the United States, Europe, South America, and Asia to source organic grain and soybeans. This new complex will be a key part of an integrated supply chain that enables us to increase business and reduce the cost while maintaining the quality of our organic products.”

“We’re on a mission to make organic chicken more accessible to more consumers, but the limiting factor is... 

Sam's Club to Distribute Naked Truth Premium Chicken

Georgia-based Wayne Farms has announced that Sam’s Club stores in 19 states will begin carrying the NAKED TRUTH® Premium Chicken brand, starting this week. Kicking off the brand with fully cooked, sous vide prepared, Flame Grilled Chicken Breasts, consumers can expect superior texture, moisture, flavor, convenience, as well as Step 2 animal welfare certifications through the Global Animal Partnership (GAP). The new offering leverages Wayne Farms’ extensive track-record of success and performance in the foodservice category by bringing that knowledge to consumers who want to achieve restaurant-like results in their own homes. It’s also an excellent option for interested retail deli and foodservice customers, as well—and the company is poised to deliver a product that meets those needs...

Pilgrim’s Pride Reports Results for Third Quarter 2018

Pilgrim’s Pride Reports Net Sales of $2.70 Billion, Operating Income of $85 Million and GAAP EPS of $0.12 for the Third Quarter of 2018

“During Q3 conditions in the U.S. markets continued to be mixed, with the commodity segment experiencing counter seasonal and weak pricing whereas the less commodity businesses better balanced. Despite challenging market conditions in commodity chicken, the investments we made over the past few years, the recent acquisitions and our capture of operational improvements, are adding diversification and differentiation to the evolution of our portfolio to deliver more resilient performance regardless of specific market conditions,” stated Bill Lovette, Chief Executive Officer of Pilgrim's.

“In Europe, the integration is tracking better than expectations and we are slightly ahead of our $50 million synergy target for the next two years, supporting a margin increase of 130bps over last year. The results, given the adverse scenario of feed inputs, are...

Poultry Producer Zacky Farms to Close Business

California-based Zacky Farms has announced that the company will be shutting down operations early 2019.

In a statement on their website, the company said:

"It comes with great sorrow that Zacky Farms has announced that it will be winding down its operations. Zacky has struggled in the current state of the industry and it has been impossible for it to continue profitably. Zacky has been diligently engaged in seeking business and capital; however, those exhaustive efforts have been unsuccessful and Zacky must now proceed with steps to cease operations. As Zacky winds down, it is presently expected that all operations will completely cease on January 19, 2019...

Suzanna’s Kitchen, Inc., Recalls Poultry Products Due to an Unapproved Substance

Class II Recall
Health Risk: Low

Suzanna’s Kitchen, Inc., a Peachtree Corners, Ga. establishment, is recalling approximately 15,363 pounds of grilled chicken products due to an unapproved substance, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today. The product contains concentrations of thallium.

The ready-to-eat (RTE) grilled chicken strip items were produced on June 20, 2018. The following products are subject to recall:

• 8-oz. boxed packages of “NATURE RAISED Farms organic GLUTEN FREE GRILLED CHICKEN BREAST STRIPS” with a “Use By” date of June 20, 2019 and a lot number of “1718SUZ01”.

The products subject to recall bear establishment number “EST. 1381” on the side panel of the box. These items were shipped to retail locations nationwide.

The problem was discovered when...

This Week in Retail: Which Retail Items Saw the Biggest YOY Drop in Feature Price?

This week in retail, beef ads decidedly claim the top spot among proteins in terms of volume share, grabbing 25.3 percent of circular space. In the number two spot, seafood just barely edges out chicken’s 22 percent share with 22.7 percent. Pork claims 22 percent of ad space. Notably, egg feature volume has been a bit higher the last two weeks, with 4 percent or more.

Looking at the meat case, the biggest year over year retail feature price drops are found in chicken leg quarters, bottom round roasts and—frozen turkeys. That’s right. It’s happening. November kicks off next week and grocers are getting a jump on the month’s key sale items.

For now, premium frozen turkeys are featured in the Northeast region at an average $0.89 per pound, which is down from $1.49 per pound a year ago. Store brand turkeys run as low as $0.57 per pound, compared to the average a year ago of $0.99.

Chicken leg quarters are offered at just $0.64 per pound on average, down 51 percent from last year at this time! This is the largest YOY percent drop for any retail item in our sampling... 

Foster Farms Introduces Bold Bites: On-The-G, High-Protein, Flavor-Rich Chicken Snacks

Leading California all-natural chicken producer Foster Farms introduces Bold Bites, a new on-the-go chicken snack inspired by bold flavors. Bold Bites are fully cooked, ready-to-eat chicken breast pieces delivering 15 grams of protein per serving. Conveniently packaged in grab-and-go, single serve pouches, the new product line includes five varieties – Cajun, Chile Verde, Korean BBQ, Caribbean Jerk, and Parmesan Garlic – and is free of hormones, artificial colors and flavors, and nitrates. Bold Bites provide a quick, stand-alone boost of energy or can be added to salads, wraps, tacos and soup to give a mouthwatering pop of bold flavor.

Foster Farms’ new on-the-go, high-protein chicken snack Bold Bites features fully cooked, ready-to-eat chicken breast pieces in five varieties...

Meat Institute Reiterates Support for USDA Regulation of Cell Based Meat Products

The North American Meat Institute once again argued that the USDA Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) has primary jurisdiction for regulation of new cell-based meat products at a joint USDA/FDA public meeting on the use of animal cell culture technology to develop products derived from livestock and poultry.

In his oral comments, North American Meat Institute Senior Vice President of Regulatory and Scientific Affairs Mark Dopp explained the many benefits of USDA regulation for cell based meat producers.

“That the inspection system FSIS administers is more rigorous than the one administered by FDA is undeniable. Administration officials have said as much. But I am baffled why...

Vaccine Shows Promise Against Widespread Chicken Disease

A new vaccine strategy could offer protection to millions of chickens threatened by a serious respiratory disease, research shows.

Infectious bronchitis virus is highly contagious and responsible for major economic losses to the poultry industry worldwide.

Infected chickens experience weight loss, decreased egg production and impaired egg quality. They are also left vulnerable to other diseases.

Current vaccines protect against some strains of the virus, but not others. Experts say these failures are possibly linked to differences in the spike protein – the protein which enables the virus to attach to and enter cells – between strains of the virus...

Maple Leaf Foods Closes Acquisition of Cericola Farms

Builds market leadership in raised without antibiotics and organic value-added chicken

Maple Leaf Foods (TSX: MFI) today announced the closing of its acquisition of two poultry plants and associated supply from Cericola Farms, a privately held company.

Located in Bradford, Ontario and Drummondville, Quebec, the two plants collectively process approximately 32 million kg of chicken annually.

Maple Leaf has also secured 100% of the processed chicken volume from Cericola's primary processing plant located in Schomberg, Ontario, and holds an option to acquire this asset and associated plant supply in three years.

Cericola specializes in air-chilled processing of antibiotic free and...

Muscle Maker Grill Introduces New Healthier Burger Menu

Muscle Maker Grill, the fast-casual restaurant brand, which promotes a healthy lifestyle by offering nutritious alternatives to traditional dishes, today announced the addition of a build it yourself burger bar menu available at participating locations for a limited time.

Muscle Maker Grill’s new healthier burger bar menu is a great option for those looking to indulge in a burger without the guilt. True to its mission of delivering healthier menu items without sacrificing taste, Muscle Maker Grill’s new burger menu has something for everybody. Guests can choose from four nutritionally packed protein options, grass-fed beef, turkey, all natural chicken breast or a veggie burger. The burgers are offered in five styles: Mushroom Supreme, California Club, Classic, Jalapeno and the Recovery burger. All burgers are served on whole wheat buns and come with a side of our baked sweet potato fries. Burger toppings include healthier options such as avocado, reduced fat mayo, turkey bacon and reduced fat cheeses. Burger bar styles are listed below...

Possible Salmonella and Listeria Contamination in Vegetables Causes Recalls in Meat Products

Various meat and poultry products have been recalled in recent days due to vegetable ingredients that may be contaminated with Salmonella and Listeria monocytogenes, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) has announced. Here is a recap of the latest recalls:

GHSW, LLC, a Houston, Texas establishment, is recalling approximately 1,786 pounds of ready-to-eat salad with chicken products that contain a corn ingredient that may be contaminated with Salmonella and Listeria monocytogenes...

Aramark Heats Up Arenas with 25 New Menu Items for the NHL and NBA Seasons

To kick off arena season, Aramark (NYSE: ARMK) -- the food and beverage provider at nine NHL and NBA arenas, who will serve nearly eight million fans attending NHL and NBA games -- is heating up the ice and hardwood with new menus stocked with everything from hometown hot dogs to vegetarian poke bowls.

Some of the new menu items Aramark is introducing at the arenas it serves include...

Church's Chicken and Texas Chicken Roll Out First-Ever Global Brand Positioning

In front of a standing-room-only crowd at a San Antonio conference center, domestic and international franchisees and operational leadership from Church's Chicken and its sister chain, Texas Chicken, came together for only the second time in the history of the brands to learn how the company will strategically reposition itself moving forward. The unveiling of the brand positioning work was a highlight moment during the recent 2018 Global Excellence in Leadership Conference.

"We are one brand serving a very similar menu but we are in distinctly different stages of our life cycles.  Our domestic roots go back 66 years, but our international footprint has really just started to take off in the past few years...

NCC Statement on CDC Investigation of Salmonella Infantis

Attributable to Tom Super, National Chicken Council spokesperson:

“We are aware that the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is investigating illnesses attributed to Salmonella Infantis, reported in multiple states over the last six months.”

The CDC says epidemiological evidence suggests raw chicken products and raw chicken pet food are possible sources. No specific product, brand, facility or company has been linked to the illnesses, nor is the CDC recommending consumers stop eating chicken.

“The chicken industry is cooperating fully with the CDC and USDA in their investigation...