Cargill and Nestlé Purina Partner on Regenerative Agriculture Adoption to Reduce Carbon Footprint

Investment in regenerative agriculture is estimated to reduce the carbon footprint of Purina’s U.S. grain supply from Cargill by up to 40 percent over the next three years

Nestlé Purina is investing in farmer adoption of regenerative agriculture practices across the company’s corn and soy supply chains through a new partnership with Cargill, one of the largest ingredient and agricultural solutions companies in the U.S. This work will support soil health and reduce the carbon footprint for Purina dry pet food products across North America...

Dine Brands Releases 2023 Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) Report

Dine Brands Global, Inc. (NYSE: DIN), the parent company of Applebee's Neighborhood Grill + Bar®, IHOP®, and Fuzzy’s Taco Shop® restaurants, released its 2023 ESG report which speaks to priorities and progress within the focus areas of People, Planet, Food, and Governance.

“Dine Better, Together is how we describe our intention to combine business growth and competitive strength with our ESG commitments,” says John Peyton, CEO of Dine Brands. “At Dine we remain motivated to provide more than an exceptional dining experience, and we...

Urner Barry Presents Historic Awards to Industry Professionals at Executive Conference

Plus, Rising Star Award presented to industry up and comer

The 48th annual Executive Conference is underway at The Venetian in Las Vegas. Urner Barry is proud to host industry executives from the poultry, egg, and red meat industries in 2024 for this premier event. Day one kicked off with opening remarks from Urner Barry host, Russ Whitman, followed by Dr. David Kohl as the morning’s keynote speaker.

Following Dr. Kohl’s remarkable session on agricultural economics and the business trends to expect in the coming years, it was time for the annual awards ceremony. Each year, Urner Barry recognizes two exceptional individuals for their work and service to the industry—the Poultry Person of the Year and the Egg Person of the Year...

Executive Conference: Jeff Saturday on Communication and Collaboration on and off the Field

It’s day one at Urner Barry’s 48th Annual Executive Conference at The Venetian in Las Vegas! Russ Whitman, Director of Market reporting, delivered the opening ceremony to a jam-packed room, where hundreds of industry stakeholders and analysts gathered to share their expertise and gain insights from today's speakers. 

Dr. David Kohl, Economist, kicked off the agenda with his panel titled: Agricultural Economics and Business Trends for the Late 2020s: What Is Coming Next? An Academic Hall of Famer in the College of Agriculture at Virginia Tech...

Introducing Domino's® New York Style Pizza

Craving a delicious, new crust that is thin and cut into big, foldable slices? Domino's Pizza Inc. (NYSE: DPZ), the largest pizza company in the world, has you covered. Introducing New York Style Pizza: a pizza that is designed to be even more delicious, whether you hail from New York City or beyond.

Domino's New York Style Pizza is made with fresh, never frozen dough that is stretched thin, by hand. It is topped with a melty blend of cheese made with 100% real mozzarella and provolone, and cut into six big, foldable...

Online Grocery Delivery Services Market size is set to grow by USD 652.45 billion from 2023-2027

Albertsons Companies Inc., Alibaba Group Holding Ltd. and Amazon.com Inc., and more to emerge as Some of the Key Vendors, Technavio

The global online grocery delivery services market size is estimated to grow by USD 652.45 bn from 2023 to 2027, according to Technavio. The market is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 19.43% during the forecast period. APAC held the largest share of the global market in 2022, and the market in the region is estimated to witness an incremental...

Brazil's Chicken Exports Hit Highs Despite YoY Drop and Stagnant Prices

In March 2024, Brazil's chicken meat exports reached a peak, totaling 418,100 tonnes. This volume marks the highest recorded for the year yet reflects an 18.8% decrease from March 2023's unprecedented 514,600 tonnes.

Revenue from chicken exports also declined by 23.4% year-on-year, from $980.5 million to $751.3 million. Domestically, prices paid to chicken producers has remained stubbornly low over the past six months, ranging from approximately R$ 7.20/kg in October 2023 to R$ 7.32/kg as of March 2024, according to...

Good Times Restaurants Reports Second Fiscal Quarter Same Store Sales

Good Times Restaurants Inc., operator of Bad Daddy’s Burger Bar and Good Times Burgers & Frozen Custard, today announced that same store sales1 increased 0.9% for its Good Times brand and decreased 3.2% for its Bad Daddy’s brand compared to the same prior-year fiscal quarter and average weekly sales2 were $27,133 and $50,880 for its Good Times and Bad Daddy’s brands, respectively, for its second fiscal quarter ended March 26, 2024.

Ryan Zink, President and CEO, said “The strength of our Good Times brand is clearly evident from...

CNBC/NRF Retail Monitor Shows Retail Sales Grew in March Amid Wage Gains and Easing Inflation 

Retail sales grew at a steady pace in March, according to the CNBC/NRF Retail Monitor, powered by Affinity Solutions, released today by the National Retail Federation.

“As inflation for goods levels off, March’s data demonstrates steady spending by value-focused consumers who continue to benefit from a strong labor market and real wage gains,” NRF President and CEO Matthew Shay said. “In this highly competitive market, retailers are having to keep prices as low as possible to meet the demand of...

LaBelle Patrimoine Heritage Chicken Approved by USDA as Regeneratively Raised

LaBelle Patrimoine, producer of humanely raised heritage, air-chilled chickens, is proud to announce that it carries the new claim of regeneratively raised as approved by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), acknowledging its commitment to sustainable and environmentally-friendly poultry farming practices.

Regeneratively raised is a farming system where chickens are fed regeneratively grown grain, grown on managed pasture, and farm waste and processing waste are composted and returned to the soil to improve soil health. This meaningful recognition by the USDA, which...

ANALYSIS: "Falling Feathers"- A Retreat in February's Chicken Export Volume...

February’s closing export tally primarily speaks to a contraction in total outward tonnage. Closing the month at 546.8 million pounds, one would have to venture all the way back to 2017 before coming across a lower seasonal figure. When compared with ’23, total volume retreated by 10.2%, or 62.3 million pounds. While the cumulative data almost speaks for itself, it is worth noting that the year-over-year (YoY) retreat in demand for U.S. chicken was not necessarily felt universally across all trade destinations...

ADM Animal Nutrition Expands Recall to Include 17 Additional Lots of Chicken, Swine and Rabbit Feed 

ADM Animal Nutrition, a division of ADM , is expanding the recall announced on March, 30, 2024, to include the following additional products due to elevated levels of magnesium, sodium, calcium and/or phosphorus: Pen Pals® Chicken Starter-Grower (Product Nos. 70009AAA46 and 70009AAA44); Pen Pals Egg Maker Complete (Product No. 70010AAAE4); MaxLean GF Concentrate (Product No. 12354AAA); ShowTec Sow Ration with Thermal Care (Product No. 12343AAA); ShowTec BB 18 BMD (Product No. 18241AGNE4); ShowTec BB 18 BMD/DBZ (Product No. 18241PLM)...

Shoppers Believe Government Policies and Actions Most Responsible for Higher Prices in Supermarkets 

The Feedback Group, a leader in providing actionable stakeholder feedback, today released new findings from national research conducted with 1,150 consumers about their experience shopping in supermarkets for food and groceries.

Government Policies and Actions Top List of Factors Responsible for Higher Prices at Supermarkets
Supermarket shoppers rated a variety of entities and factors, on a five-point scale where five is "highly responsible" and one "not at all responsible", as to their degree of responsibility for higher prices in supermarkets. Viewed as most responsible, government policies and actions received the highest mean score (3.86). Product manufacturers and suppliers scored second most responsible (3.75), followed more distantly by wars and worldwide political conflicts (3.42), supermarket retailers (3.40), and labor supply shor

NRF Announces Promotion of Chief Lobbyist

The National Retail Federation today announced the promotion of David French from senior vice president to executive vice president of government relations and executive director of the National Council of Chain Restaurants. Since joining NRF in 2011, French has led the organization’s advocacy strategy to advance the retail industry’s legislative priorities.

“As NRF’s chief lobbyist, David is a great partner of many years who has done an incredible job with public policy efforts that support retailers and the millions of people they employ and the communities they serve,” NRF President and...

ANALYSIS: Turkey Exports Tonnage: Greater Than What Meets the Eye

The turkey export figures were quite a sight to behold throughout the month of February. At 36.4 million pounds, total outward tonnage rose on a year-over-year (YoY) basis for the ninth consecutive month in a row. The most recent data gave way to a notable 46% advance from 2023. This was enough to position February’s closing figure at the highest seasonal level observed since 2021.

Total export value also realized a 20% uptick from the previous year. Although month-over-month (MoM) volume retreated by 0.07%...

ANALYSIS: Raw Material Costs in the QSR Sector - Beef Versus Chicken

Fast food restaurants have garnered a lot of attention in recent months due to increasing menu prices.  We thought it would be worthwhile to examine the costs for different ingredients used by the sector, particularly focusing on raw protein materials required for staple menu items. 

For this analysis, we concentrate on hamburger formulations using a 75% lean point. Cost ratio values below one indicate that a hamburger made exclusively from domestic boneless beef provides greater economic value, while values above one suggest that alternative options...

KFC Global to Welcome New CFO

KFC Global today announced that Alex Barsk (she/her) will be joining KFC Global as our new Chief Financial Officer (CFO), reporting directly to Sabir Sami, KFC Global Chief Executive Officer (CEO), effective June 1, 2024.

In this role, Alex will be responsible for leading KFC’s global Finance function, ensuring continued growth and profitability for the KFC business. She will also oversee KFC’s Financial Planning Analysis and Strategy functions.

Alex joins us from our sister brand, Pizza Hut, where she most recently served as Global Chief Financial Officer...

Dickey’s Barbecue to Expand Partnership with Sam’s Club

Dickey’s Barbecue Pit is thrilled to continue growing their retail presence with Sam’s Club.

Starting in April 2024, the Texas-style barbecue brand is expanding their partnership into an additional 30+ Sam’s Club stores throughout Montana, Louisiana, New Mexico, Central and South Texas Regions. Sam’s Club shoppers can purchase Dickey’s world famous, original polish smoked sausage ropes in the popular 36oz Club Pack and show off their backyard pit master skills from the comfort of their own homes.

“We are pleased to now be offering the Dickey’s...

Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza Confirmed in North Carolina Dairy Herd

Highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) was detected in a dairy herd in North Carolina on April 10, bringing the number of states with confirmed cases of HPAI in livestock to seven. 

HPAI has previously been detected in nine dairy herds in Texas, three in Kansas, two in New Mexico, and one each in Michigan, Idaho, and Ohio. The movement of cattle from affected herds in these states to North Carolina has been suspended. 

“This is an evolving situation, and we are waiting for more diagnostics from NVSL and will work collaboratively with our federal partners and dairy farmers in North Carolina,” said Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler...

Kroger Kicks Off a Latin Flavor Take Over Four-Week Event

The Kroger Co. today announced it is kicking-off Cinco de Mayo with a four-week Latin flavors event. Customers are invited to experience savory Latin cuisine and explore the vibrant world of Latin flavors waiting for them at Kroger.

"This event is a celebration of a culture and flavors that inspires togetherness and a passion for food," said Dan De La Rosa, Kroger's group vice president of Fresh Merchandising. "We hope to curate an experience that promises to spark a new culinary adventure...

Rerouting Trucks and Ships Away from Baltimore: What Early Data Shows

As the days add up after the March 26 collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge, companies that gather data from trucks and supply chains are beginning to get an idea of where trucks are rerouting in the catastrophe’s wake. Data on ship rerouting is less conclusive.

While some of that data is clear, a lot remains murky as shippers and carriers figure out how to loosen the logistical choke points the collapse created.

One of the clearest data series in the market, because it is fed...

The Retail Rundown: Competitive Prices Drive Traffic; CPI Update

The coming weeks and months present favorable weather conditions for grilling and travel, considered supportive of protein sales from both a retail and foodservice standpoint. And with a few notable items displaying comparatively attractive prices, the retail sector is well positioned to capitalize on pent-up grilling demand.

Below, we’ll explore a few notable items featured near or below year-ago levels last week, when some households celebrated Easter.

First up is beef ribeye, which averaged $10.79 discounted, down $2.24, or 17.2% from a year ago. Beef...

Import Cargo To Hit 2 Million Containers For First Time Since Last Fall

Next month’s inbound cargo volume at the nation’s major container ports is expected to top 2 million units for the first time since last fall as imports grow despite new supply chain challenges, according to the Global Port Tracker report released today by the National Retail Federation and Hackett Associates.

“U.S. imports are continuing to increase despite another disruption impacting U.S. ports,” NRF Vice President for Supply Chain and Customs Policy Jonathan Gold said. “As retailers have adjusted to limits...

Kim Lewis Appointed CMO of Capriotti's Sandwich Shop

Capriotti's Sandwich Shop (Capriotti's) announced this morning the latest addition to its executive leadership team: Kim Lewis, the first-ever Chief Marketing Officer (CMO) for the brand. This appointment comes as Capriotti's continues to plant roots in new markets, introduce menu and tech innovations to its operations, and further establish itself as a category leader in the restaurant space across the country.

Kim's experience in marketing spans well over two decades, including more than 15 years in the retail industry and most recently, 6+ years...

Corn Planting Progress Slightly Outpacing Average Rate

In the USDA’s latest Crop Progress report, corn plantings as of Sunday, April 7 were 3% underway across the 18 primary production states. This is slightly behind the 5-year average rate of 2%. 

Seven states now report planting progress, up from six the previous week. North Carolina and Missouri/Tennessee showed the most week-over-week progress, jumping 8 and 5 percentage points, respectively. 

States failing to get on the board include Iowa, Michigan, Minnesota, North Dakota, Ohio, South Dakota, and Wisconsin.

Corn futures were down 1 to 2 cents...

Papa Johns Deepens Strategic Partnership With the Bajco Group to Expand Presence in North America 

Papa John’s International, Inc. (“Papa Johns” or “Company”) today announced plans to open 50 new restaurants by 2028 in partnership with franchisee Nadeem Bajwa and his company, The Bajco Group, which has grown over the past 20 years to become one of Papa Johns largest domestic franchisees.

Furthering Bajwa’s goal to own 500 Papa Johns restaurants, the new agreement will expand the Papa Johns footprint in The Bajco Group’s existing markets across the Midwest and in Arizona, Pennsylvania...

Cal-Maine Foods, Inc. Announces Retirement of Jeff Hardin

Cal-Maine Foods, Inc. today announced that Jeff Hardin, Senior Vice President of Sales, is retiring from his position with the Company, effective July 23, 2024. Scott Hull, Vice President of Sales, will assume the executive officer role previously held by Hardin, effectively immediately. Hardin will continue to work with Hull through the transition period until his official retirement date.

Hardin joined Cal-Maine Foods in 1988 and was named Vice President of Sales in 2002. He has played a pivotal role in driving the Company’s consistent...

KFC Introduces New "Taste of KFC Deals"- A Value Menu with Real Value- Starting at Just $4.99

KFC is bringing its beloved 11 herbs and spices to an all-new "Taste of KFC Deals" value menu available starting today, with flavor-packed meal deals starting at just $4.99*.

It's been 30 years since food ate up this much of people's incomes, and 56% of consumers are budgeting their finances more now due to inflation.** These deals are tailor-made to fit right into your loud budget – save on delicious fried chicken so you can spend more...

Bojangles Introduces Bo's Bird Dog: A Flavorful Twist on a Classic Favorite

Bojangles is giving chicken lovers a tasty, on-the-go way to enjoy one of its most popular menu items with the all-new Bo’s Bird Dog. A spin on a classic hot dog, the Bo’s Bird Dog features a Bojangles Chicken Supreme tender nestled in a split-top bun, topped with thick-cut pickles and drizzled with Carolina Gold sauce – a sweet and tangy honey mustard-based BBQ sauce.

“Bo’s Bird Dogs offer a delicious and portable way to feed the whole...

Podcast: Agri-Food for Thought Ep 8 - Global Supply Chain Situation

USDA’s APHIS Answers Questions on Detection of HPAI in Dairy Cattle

Following the recent string of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) detections in dairy herds in several states, USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) has answered some of the most frequently asked questions about the rapidly evolving situation.

As of Apil 3, 2024, six states have confirmed cases of HPAI in domestic livestock. The first confirmation was on March 25 in dairy milking cattle in Texas. Since then, Kansas, Michigan, New Mexico, Idaho, and Ohio have also reported HPAI in dairy cattle herds.

Below are some of the questions...

States with HPAI-Infected Dairy Cows Grows to Six

A herd of dairy cattle in Ohio has been infected with highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI), increasing the number of states with dairy operations affected by the virus to six.

The Ohio Department of Agriculture (ODA) on April 3 announced it had received confirmation from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) National Veterinary Services Laboratory (NVSL) of HPAI infection in a dairy cattle herd in Wood County, Ohio.

The USDA previously confirmed the H5N1 strain of HPAI in dairy cattle on seven Texas farms, two in Kansas, and one each...

Albertsons Companies Unveils Simplified “for U” Loyalty Program Enhancing Member Experience 

Albertsons Companies (NYSE: ACI) continues to transform its customer shopping experience and deepen customer relationships announcing today a new, simplified loyalty program providing more value and ease than ever for the retailer’s 38 million* loyalty members. Available now, the award-winning for U™ loyalty program is better than ever with a single points-based system, double the time to earn points and a new automatic cash off option for more convenient savings, among other benefits. The program retains all the benefits customers love with exciting enhancements to celebrate their loyalty and create customers for life.

The for U loyalty program is free and available to all customers who shop at Albertsons Cos. stores including Safeway, Albertsons, Shaw’s, ACME, Jewel-Osco, Randalls and Vons

ANALYSIS: Exploring Factors Influencing the Turkey Market

Although market-swaying spot trade activity is off to a fairly uneventful start in April, there are no shortage of variables that are lingering on the minds of turkey market participants as we proceed into spring. At the top of the "figurative" list is HPAI, which has been slow to relinquish its grasp on the poultry (and egg) industry. Through the first three months of the year, commercial HPAI turkey cases advanced by about 50%, or 70 thousand birds, from the year prior...

ANALYSIS: Don’t Count Your Chickens Before They Hatch

Although April’s initial canvassing efforts are slow to bring with them many market-swaying developments, buyers and sellers of chicken are far from kicking up their feet. In light of the multitude of “unknown” variables which range from consumer demand patterns to disease, industry market participants are opting to focus their attention on what still lies within their control: Supply. With this in mind, the Weekly Broiler Hatch Report is perhaps one of our best forward-facing production indicators and one which has garnered quite a lot of attention in recent weeks...

Get Ready for Some Berry Delicious Spring Sensations at Chick-fil-A

Spring is officially in bloom at Chick-fil-A®! Starting April 8, Guests nationwide can enjoy fruity new flavors with a line of Cherry Berry seasonal beverages, the perfect pairing for picnic season. Chick-fil-A is also serving a delicious springtime twist, testing a new limited time entrée available exclusively at participating restaurants in Raleigh, NC: the Pretzel Cheddar Club Sandwich.

Blue Skies and Cherry Vibes
The Cherry Berry beverage line provides a vibrant pop of mixed berry flavors, perfectly sweet and refreshing...

CKE Restaurants Names Brand Presidents for Carl's Jr. and Hardee's

CKE Restaurants Holdings, Inc. (CKE), parent company of Carl's Jr.® and Hardee's®, is announcing the appointment of brand presidents for Carl's Jr., Hardee's and International.

Following the separation of the Carl's Jr. and Hardee's brand, the business approach includes a leadership structure with three teams, each led by a president driving execution of strategic growth plans. Mike Woida will continue to lead as International President, Chris Bode was named Hardee's USA President last fall, and Blake Devillier has joined CKE Restaurants as Carl's Jr. USA President...

Robert Irvine and GRUBBRR Launch "Restaurant Revamp" Campaign Ahead of  Fast Food Wage Hikes

GRUBBRR, a cutting-edge provider of self-ordering technology, today announced its collaboration with company investor, partner and celebrity chef Robert Irvine to launch "Restaurant Revamp," a giveaway campaign aimed at addressing solutions to rising labor and food costs in California and beyond. The move comes as California is set to raise hourly wages for fast food employees to $20 per hour starting April 1, 2024, and more restaurant owners and operators are looking to integrate technology as a forward-looking solution...

Matthew R. Ott Named New President and CEO of FPSA

The Food Production Solutions Association announced that it has hired Matthew R. Ott as its new President and CEO. This announcement was made by Brian Perkins, FPSA Chair and President of Provisur Technologies Inc, during the Association’s Executive Exchange & Conference held in Indian Wells, California.

As part of this announcement, Perkins shared, “The Boards of both FPSA and the FPSA Foundation proudly welcome Matt to lead the Food Production Solutions Association. As we rebrand and refocus our organization, Matt is the right leader at the right time...

ADM Animal Nutrition Recalls Select Chicken, Swine, Cattle and Horse Feed Products

Specific lots may contain elevated levels of calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, sodium and/or chloride and may harm chickens, swine, beef cattle and equine

ADM Animal Nutrition, a division of ADM, is recalling the following products:

• Pen Pals® Chicken Starter-Grower 25-lb bag (Product No 70009ACF46)
• Pen Pals Chicken Starter-Grower 50-lb bag (Product No. 70009AAA44)
• Pen Pals Chicken Starter-Grower 25-lb case (Product No. 70009AAABE)
• MoorMan’s ShowTec Sale Burst w/DF DEN 50-lb. bag (Product No 21256CVWE4)...

The Retail Rundown: The April Outlook

The first inklings of planting season have made an appearance and with it comes the prospect of prolonged warmer weather. April typically launches a period of improved foodservice and retail demand as the shift in seasons encourages consumers to venture outdoors and fire up the grill. Moreover, spring break is underway, giving a boost to foodservice interest.

With spring in full swing, feature volume will begin to shift from roasts, popular with cooler weather cooking, to grilling cuts. Currently, the pork category overtakes seafood for a second consecutive week with the most feature volume...

Delight Restaurant Group Acquires 65 Wendy's Restaurants From Primary Aim, LLC

Delight Restaurant Group announced today the acquisition of 65 Wendy's® restaurants across Pennsylvania, Ohio, and West Virginia from Primary Aim, LLC. This acquisition makes Delight Restaurant Group one of the largest franchisees within the Wendy's System.

Delight Restaurant Group is a high performing and growth-oriented restaurant franchise organization founded by Managing Partners Andrew and Richard Krumholz in 2016. With this acquisition, Delight Restaurant Group will own and operate 226 restaurants, generating $500 million in sales, and employing 7,000 people in eight states. Delight Restaurant Group plans...

Chipotle Hides More than $1 Million in Free Burritos Inside New Burrito Vault Game 

Chipotle Mexican Grill today announced it is launching a new interactive game, Burrito Vault, that will give away 100,000 Buy-One-Get-One free entrée codes* redeemable exclusively on National Burrito Day, April 4.

Starting at 12pm PT today, fans can access the Burrito Vault game by visiting www.unlockburritoday.com. The brand is challenging fans to guess two exact order combinations, ingredient by ingredient, that will unlock the bank. Prizes are available for the first 50,000 fans on April 2...

State Officials Report Human Case of Bird Flu in Texas, Second Ever in U.S. History

State officials Monday reported the first human case of avian influenza A(H5N1) in Texas, marking the second-ever human case of H5N1 flu, or HPAI, in the United States and the first tied to exposure to cattle. 

The individual in Texas had been in direct contact with dairy cattle thought to be infected with avian influenza. The person, who had testing performed by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) over the weekend, exhibited eye inflammation as their only symptom and is being treated with the antiviral drug oseltamivir. The risk to the general public remains low, said the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS)...

HPAI Detection in Idaho Dairy Herd 

The Idaho State Department of Agriculture (ISDA) identified today highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in a Cassia County dairy cattle operation.

These are the first cases of HPAI in a livestock operation in Idaho. The affected facility recently imported cattle from another state that has identified cases of HPAI in cattle, which suggests the virus may be transmitted from cow-to-cow, in addition to previous reports indicating cattle were acquiring the virus from infected birds.

The primary concern with this diagnosis is on-farm production losses, as the disease has been associated with...

Trade and Exports Continue to Strengthen American Agriculture

American agriculture remains strong. Total U.S. agricultural exports reached $174.9 billion in 2023. American farmers, ranchers, and agribusiness owners continue to have success abroad as USDA’s Foreign Agricultural Service works for U.S. agriculture.

Exports are critical to the health of America’s farm sector and the nation’s economy. USDA and the Biden-Harris Administration are committed to ensuring that U.S. agriculture has full and fair access to markets and opportunities across the globe.

In the trade policy arena, USDA successfully opened a new grapefruit market in Vietnam...

ANALYSIS: Chicken Cold Storage: A February Thaw

The latest chicken Cold Storage reading closely coincides with the generally constricted supply state observed across much of the market recently. Total inventories through the end of February retreated on a year-over-year (YoY) basis by 9%. This equates to a 77.7 million-pound reduction, while also marking the seventh consecutive month of yearly decreases. The comparative month-over-month (MoM) data also brought with it a significant 5%, or 41 million pound, downturn in public warehouse holdings. Although this scenario does generally align...

Land O’Frost Announces the Addition of Directors of Research, Development and Innovation

Land Frost, Inc., one of the nation’s best-selling brands of pre-sliced deli meats and a producer of specialty meats, is pleased to announce the appointment of two new directors to its leadership team. Julie Lubash has been named Director of Research, Development and Innovation, while Paula Ford joins as Brand Marketing Director.

“The addition of Julie Lubash and Paula Ford to our leadership team reflects Land O’Frost’s commitment to attracting top talent from across the industry. Their expertise and strategic vision will strengthen our position as...

US Egg Industry Leaders Embark on USDA Trade Mission to South Korea

South Korea a priority target in strategic industry goal to double U.S. egg exports in five years

American Egg Board President and CEO Emily Metz and Greg Hinton, VP of sales at Rose Acre Farms in Seymour, Indiana, this week are accompanying agriculture and food industry leaders and various state secretaries of agriculture on a U.S. Department of Agriculture agribusiness trade mission to Seoul, South Korea, led by Under Secretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs Alexis M. Taylor, March 25-28...

Del Taco Introduces 2 for $3 Crispy Chicken Tacos and Egg & Cheese Breakfast Rollers

Del Taco, the nation’s second-largest Mexican quick service restaurant,* has created one Del of a deal spanning all dayparts. For a limited time, the fan-favorite Crispy Chicken Tacos and Egg & Cheese Breakfast Rollers are 2 for $3.† Del Yeah!™ Rewards members can save even more cash by redeeming a FREE Iced or Hot Coffee with the purchase of any item in the app.‡

“In times of ever-increasing prices, Del continues to provide our guests with high quality, fresh and...

KFC Takes Finger Lickin' Good to a Whole New Level with New Saucy Nuggets in Five Dripping Flavors

KFC is getting saucy and taking its finger lickin' good chicken nuggets to a whole new level with NEW Saucy Nuggets, with five flavors available at KFC restaurants nationwide starting April 1! The news comes one year after KFC introduced its 100% white meat, hand-breaded chicken nuggets, which quickly became a crowd-pleaser.

For just $5.99,* you can get 10 of KFC's new Saucy Nuggets, dripping in one of FIVE delicious sauce flavors, including three brand-new sauces...

ANALYSIS: Turkey Inventories: Frostbite, or Ready to Take Flight?

Although the turkey marketing backdrop has been relatively sedate leading up to Easter, industry players still have quite a lot to mull over as we fast approach Q2. One report which has garnered attention recently is February’s Cold Storage assessment..

As depicted by this week’s chart, month-over-month (MoM) movement of most key lines kept closely with the established seasonal trend. Comparative yearly figures, however, were a mixed bag; ranging as high as 98% above, to as low as 15% below, 2023.

Starting with the cumulative data, total inward movement...

Mintec's 2024 US Easter Index

Mintec’s US Easter Index measures price fluctuations across key food commodities that are typically consumed in the US during the Easter period. The US Easter Index compares the commodities’ prices in March 2024 against March 2023 to determine whether consumers will be hypothetically better or worse off this Easter. The Index is comprised of three sub-indices: the US Easter Protein Index represents a selection of meats, fish and eggs that will typically be eaten as part of a main Easter dinner; the US Easter Chocolate Index compares the main...

Global Entertainment Icon USHER Becomes Newest Dave’s Hot Chicken Franchisee

Dave’s Hot Chicken, the wildly popular Nashville-style hot chicken sensation that started out seven years ago in an East Hollywood parking lot pop-up, today announced that Entertainment Icon USHER is investing in restaurants across Atlanta in the coming years. USHER will be partnering with Lawrence Kourie and Andrew Feghali, whose company is the longest-tenured Dave’s Hot Chicken franchise group, as well as one of the largest.

The eight-time Grammy Award-winning superstar previously experienced the full heat of Dave’s Hot Chicken when he tried the... 

Biofuel and Ag Groups Call on EPA to Issue E15 Emergency Waiver

Today, Growth Energy, Renewable Fuels Association, National Corn Growers Association, American Farm Bureau Federation, National Farmers Union, and National Sorghum Producers sent a letter to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) calling on Administrator Michael Regan to act swiftly on an emergency waiver for E15 sales:

“New and ongoing conflicts across the globe continue to pose risks to the United States’ transportation energy supply. In addition to the conflict in Ukraine, now extending into its third year, the recent unrest and volatility in the Middle East present additional challenges...

Mitsui Investing in Leading Indian Poultry Producer Sneha Farms

Japan’s Mitsui & Co., Ltd. is investing an undisclosed amount in integrated Indian poultry producer Sneha Farms Pvt. Ltd, one of India's leading companies in terms of production volume.

Sneha is based in Hyderabad, Telangana state. Established in 1982, the company employs approximately 5,500 staff. Its business units include feed manufacturing, broiler production, meat processing and packing, transportation, and retail. Its poultry processing plant has a 12,000 birds/hour capacity. The company also has five hatcheries.

Sneha Farms Private Limited operates six feed mills across the states of Telangana... 

Majority of EU Countries Ask Bloc to Scale Back Deforestation Law

Some 20 members of the European Union asked Brussels to scale back and possibly suspend the bloc's anti-deforestation law on Tuesday, saying the policy would harm farmers, in the latest blowback against Europe's environmental agenda.

The EU law aims to root deforestation out of supply chains for beef, soy and other agricultural products sold in Europe, so that European consumers are not contributing to the destruction of global forests from the Amazon to Southeast Asia.

Those rules equally apply to European farmers, who will be banned from exporting...

The Retail Rundown: Easter Features Breakdown 

A March Easter is approaching—an occurrence not seen since 2016. Circulars are flush with holiday and springtime themes as grocers take full advantage of the upcoming weekend. 

Pork feature volume rose through the ranks and earned the top spot of protein feature volume this week with 29% of ad space. Seafood eased to 25%, down from 32% last week. Lent ends tomorrow at sundown, meaning observers can soon indulge in meat on Fridays again. 

Beef has 20% of retail activity while chicken features comprise 11% of protein ad volume. Turkey features more...

Circana Announces Top 50 U.S. Restaurants

Circana™, the leading advisor on the complexity of consumer behavior, today released its 2024 Definitive U.S. Restaurant Ranking Report, offering insights into evolving consumer habits, performance trends, and the top players in the industry.

While restaurant traffic saw a modest growth of 1% in 2023 compared to the previous year, a 5% increase in consumer spending was recorded, surpassing the 4% growth observed in 2022. Notably, the industry now stands as a half-a-trillion-dollar juggernaut, with dollars exceeding 2019 levels by 12%, despite traffic remaining 8% below prepandemic levels...

Pepper Announces Launch of Ferraro Foods App to More than 8,000 customers

Pepper, a leading provider of AI-driven solutions for the food distribution industry, is thrilled to announce its latest partnership with Ferraro Foods, a renowned name in the food service sector known for its commitment to delivering fresh ingredients and unparalleled quality service. This collaboration marks the launch of the highly anticipated Pepper App, designed to revolutionize how Ferraro Foods interacts with its extensive network of over 8,000 customers across 23 states.

"Our alliance with Pepper represents a significant milestone in our journey towards embracing digital transformation in...

Leslee Oden Named President and CEO of National Turkey Federation

The National Turkey Federation (NTF) announced today that Leslee Oden has been named NTF President & CEO and will assume the leadership position in July when current President & CEO Joel Brandenberger retires after 17 years as head of the organization. The announcement was made by NTF Chairman John Zimmerman.

“On behalf of the NTF Executive Committee, Board of Directors and membership, we are excited for a new chapter at NTF with Leslee at the helm,” said Zimmerman. “We conducted a thorough search, and it was abundantly clear that Leslee...

ANALYSIS: The Widening Price Spread Between Boneless Chicken Breasts and Tenders

Given the volatile, and generally bullish-leaning market dynamics within the chicken complex recently, buyers and sellers certainly have a lot to consider as we usher in the springtime months. In addition to widespread supply constrictions, light live weights, and the ongoing threat of multiple diseases, the ever-shifting price relationship between various items on the sheet has introduced some additional room for speculation. Perhaps one of the more obvious examples of the changing market landscape is the relatively narrow, albeit expanding, delta between jumbo boneless breast and tender...

MLB Eats: Aramark Sports + Entertainment Unveils New Ballpark Fare for 2024 Season

Aramark Sports + Entertainment, is headed into the 2024 Major League Baseball (MLB) season with an expanded roster of clients and a fresh lineup of ballpark menu options and concessions innovations to enhance the gameday experience for baseball fans.

The award-winning provider of food and beverage programs in premier MLB stadiums across the country, today officially announced the addition of Oracle Park, home of the San Francisco Giants, to its baseball portfolio, with plans for reimagined food and beverage offerings to be announced...

USDA Announces Up to $12 Million in Grant Funding Available to Promote U.S. Agricultural Products

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) today announced up to $12 million in funding available to strengthen and explore new market opportunities for U.S. agricultural products and increase access to locally grown food in communities experiencing food insecurity. The funding is available through three grant programs administered by the Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS): the Acer Access and Development Program, the Federal State Marketing Improvement Program, and the Micro-Grants for Food Security Program...

Perkins Restaurant & Bakery Launches Egg-Ceptional Catering Program Nationwide with Homestyle Faves

Perkins Restaurant and Bakery®, a leading family dining brand, is springing into the Easter season, offering a delectable selection of homestyle favorites at over 180 locations. Perkins is bringing the brand's iconic breakfast, bakery, burgers, and more to help guests stress less with life's special moments. The Perkins catering menu features affordable homestyle favorites with generous portion sizes, all held to the highest freshness and quality standards.

"At Perkins, we're excited to introduce our catering program, bringing our signature dishes to your special moments...

Stevens County Goat Tests Positive for Same Influenza Virus Affecting Poultry

A Stevens County goat kid (juvenile goat) residing on a farm with a Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) positive poultry flock tested positive for the same virus. This is the first U.S. detection of HPAI in a domestic ruminant (cattle, sheep, goats, and their relatives). All poultry on the property were already quarantined from the February HPAI detection. Following the confirmation of HPAI in the goat, the Board quarantined all other species on the premises. The Board is working with the U.S. Department of Agriculture...

Shake Shack Names Rob Lynch as Chief Executive Officer

Shake Shack Inc. today announced that its Board of Directors has appointed Rob Lynch to the role of Chief Executive Officer and board member, effective May 20, 2024. Mr. Lynch currently serves as President and CEO of Papa John’s International, Inc. and under his leadership, the Company has achieved record global system-wide sales. Mr. Lynch will succeed Randy Garutti who will continue as the Company’s CEO through May 20, 2024, which will also be his final day serving on the Board, before transitioning to an advisor...

DoorDash and Wing Announce Drone Delivery Pilot in the US

DoorDash and Wing today announced the launch of their drone delivery partnership in the U.S., starting in Christiansburg, VA. Select local consumers will be able to order eligible menu items from Wendy’s® — the pilot’s first restaurant partner — through the DoorDash marketplace and have them delivered via drone. This follows the drone delivery pilot program that DoorDash and Wing launched in Australia in 2022 and has since expanded to three locations in Queensland with over 60 participating merchants, marking the first time that Wing integrated its drone...

ANALYSIS: Hatching Plans to Combat Future Uncertainty

Anyone intimately involved in the turkey industry has most likely had their eyes on the hatchery data to start the year. Substantial reductions in all three major categories, Eggs In Incubators, Eggs Hatched and Net Poults Placed have taken place over the past few months which leads many to question what exactly is causing the downtrend. The answer though, may not be as simple as it once was. Traditionally speaking, when hatchery statistics move notably higher or lower, it comes as a concerted effort by the industry to better align with current and...

FDA Issues Import Alert for Food Products with Chemical Contaminants Including PFAS

Today, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration issued a new import alert for human food products with detectable levels of chemical contaminants that may present a safety concern to human health. The Import Alert 99-48, Detention without Physical Examination of Foods Due to Chemical Contamination, gives the FDA the ability to help prevent entry of human food products into the U.S. if they are found to be contaminated with a broad range of human-made chemicals including benzene, dioxins and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), and...

Applebee’s® Crowned “America’s Favorite Boneless Wings!”

There’s nothing Applebee’s takes more seriously than Eatin’ Good in the Neighborhood®- especially when it comes to Boneless Wings. Now, it’s official. Following a nationwide, double-blind taste-test, Applebee’s was crowned with the title of “America’s Favorite Boneless Wings.”

Saucy and savory, Applebee’s Boneless Wings can now add award-winning to their plate. Following a national, double-blind taste-test of its Classic Buffalo sauced Boneless Wings among other top national chain restaurants, Applebee’s Boneless Wings has been named “America’s Favorite Boneless Wings.” To celebrate and give America more of what...

Flashfood and The Save Mart Companies Partner to Make Groceries More Affordable on the West Coast

Flashfood, the app for grocery’s best deals, today announced a partnership with The Save Mart Companies, a California-based grocer operating 194 stores under the banners of Save Mart, Lucky, and FoodMaxx in California and Western Nevada. Flashfood’s free app connects shoppers with fresh produce, meat and other high-quality groceries at up to 50% off, diverting food waste from landfills and offering great deals on groceries at the same time.

The Flashfood app is now available at 44 Lucky stores in the greater...

The Retail Rundown: 2024 Annual Power of Meat Study Recap

The 2024 Power of Meat Study was revealed at the Annual Meat Conference in Nashville, Tennessee this week. Anne-Marie Roerink, Principal at 210 Analytics, presented the findings and identified the trends currently shaping the retail meat sector.

This year’s report found that the number of Americans who describe themselves as meat eaters (80%) and the number of households that purchase meat (98%) were unchanged from 2023. Circana data indicates that overall household penetration across all incomes, ethnicities, household sizes, and ages, averages above 97%...

CDFA Announces New Proposition 12 Certifying Agent

The California Department of Food and Agriculture's (CDFA) Animal Care Program has announced NSF Cerficiation LLC as its newest Proposition 12 certifying agent.

NSF Certification LLC is based in Ann Arbor, Michigan and is accredited to certify distributors. It will be extending its certification services nationwide within the United States, added the Animal Care Program. 

A complete list of accredited certifying agents can be found...

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19th Annual Power of Meat Reports Strong Meat Consumption, Evolving Consumer Trends

The number of Americans who describe themselves as meat eaters (80%) and the number of households that purchase meat (98%) remain steady from 2023, while the number seeking to decrease meat consumption has fallen by 20% since 2020, according to the 19th annual Power of Meat report released today by the Meat Institute and FMI—The Food Industry Association.

According to data cited from Circana, overall household penetration averages above 97% for all incomes, ethnicities, household sizes and ages...

Subway® Selects PepsiCo as its Beverage Partner in the U.S.

Subway®, one of the world's largest restaurant brands, today announced a 10-year agreement with PepsiCo to supply beverages in U.S. restaurants beginning January 1, 2025. Subway's longstanding partnership with Frito-Lay® will also be extended through 2030, bringing the brand's U.S. snack and beverage portfolio together under one supplier and driving more efficiency across the system.

Under the new agreement, Subway restaurants will offer a consumer-driven assortment of beverages from the diverse PepsiCo beverages portfolio such as Pepsi®, Pepsi®...

Texas Foodservice Industry Surpasses $100 Billion in Sales for the First Time

According to the latest data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the Texas foodservice industry has achieved two major milestones, crossing the $100 billion sales threshold for the first time and graduating to the largest private sector employer in the state, surpassing the healthcare industry. These milestones and new data collected from a diverse group of restaurants across Texas reflect the resiliency of the industry that continues to grapple with the economic shock waves caused by the COVID-19 pandemic...

Marco's Franchising Announces Mexico Expansion with 50-Unit Master Franchise Agreement

Marco's Franchising, one of the nation's fastest-growing pizza brand franchises, announces a 50-unit master franchise agreement marking its debut in Mexico City as international development takes center stage in 2024.

Behind the development is Grupo Pizza Amantes SA de CV, a Mexican company run by four business partners. With the three principals having more than 20 years of experience in the restaurant, hospitality, and retail industry, Grupo Pizza Amantes has been appointed as the master franchisee for Mexico City...

Popeyes® Introduces New Honey Lemon Pepper Wings

Starting Today Available Exclusively on the Popeyes App or Popeyes.com

Starting today, Popeyes® announces the launch of its latest chicken wing innovation: Honey Lemon Pepper, available exclusively through the Popeyes app or on Popeyes.com from March 19 to March 31 before they are available in restaurants nationwide starting April 1.

This new offering features six juicy, marinated, perfectly crispy chicken wings. Each bite packs a sweet and tangy punch with zesty lemon and a bit of peppery heat from black pepper, giving you all the flavors you love about...

Domino's® is Giving Basketball Fans a Slam Dunk of a Deal

Domino's Pizza Inc., the largest pizza company in the world, is celebrating college basketball's biggest month by offering customers 50% off all menu-priced pizzas ordered online today through March 24.

"Domino's is making an assist to customers for a slam dunk of a deal," said Christopher Thomas-Moore, Domino's senior vice president – chief digital officer. "What's better than enjoying delicious pizza while cheering on your favorite team? Enjoying delicious pizza when it's half off!"

The 50% off deal is available on menu-priced pizzas ordered through...

Qdoba Announces Appointment of Jeremy Vitaro as Chief Development Officer 

QDOBA, America's #2 restaurant brand in the Mexican fast-casual category, today announced that Jeremy Vitaro has joined the company as Chief Development Officer and Head of International. Vitaro brings more than 20 years of development experience and is responsible for QDOBA's asset light development strategy, including new restaurant growth, system remodeling, refranchising, acquisition, prototype design, and real estate and construction.

"We are thrilled with Jeremy's decision to join the QDOBA leadership team," said John Cywinski, CEO of QDOBA and Modern Market Eatery. "QDOBA is an...

Randall Foods Announces Completion of Executive Team Buildout

Randall Foods (the "Company"), a value-added provider of ground beef, poultry, beef, and pork protein solutions and a portfolio company of Highview Capital, today announced the completion of its executive team buildout that includes both external appointments and internal promotions.

Randall Foods is the combination of Randall Foods and WilMar Meat from a transformational merger in 2022. Now integrated, Randall Foods serves as a critical partner to grocery retail and foodservice customers. It assists customers by solving their greatest protein needs through...

Hardee’s Franchisee Shows Commitment to Greater Triangle Region with New Menu 

Hardee’s franchise owner operator Boddie-Noell Enterprises has a longtime presence in the greater Triangle area of North Carolina and recently made it even bigger with new menu choices at its 72 restaurants in the region, new Hardee’s openings and multi-million-dollar renovations across all locations.

Local Hardee’s are debuting new menu choices, featuring the Hand-Breaded Chicken TendersTM Platter and crinkle-cut fries. The Platter includes choice of three or five tenders and dipping sauce, combined with new crinkle-cut fries, slaw, toast and a beverage...

Meat Institute, FMI Announce 2024 Leaders of Tomorrow Program Winners

To kick off the 2024 Annual Meat Conference, the Meat Institute and FMI – The Food Industry Association announced 10 winners for the 2024 Leaders of Tomorrow Program.

The winners are: Kaylee Russell, Tyson Foods; Michael Yeater, Albertsons Companies; Tammy Gonzales, Cargill; Mike Van Drie, SpartanNash Co.; Nicole Koch, Seaboard Foods; Liz Holt Welnhofer, Pre Brands; Hillary Niblock, Superior Farms; Marie-Pier Labarre, Cascades; Zachary Stadler, Associated Wholesale Grocers; and Jennifer Hicks, Mitchell Grocery Corp.

“These 10 Leaders of Tomorrow proved themselves to be rising stars in...

Astral Foods Sells Minority Interest in Quantum Foods

South Africa's largest integrated poultry producer, Astral Foods, has sold its 9.8% interest in Quantum Foods to Country Bird Holdings (CBH) for ZAR 141.7 million (approximately $7.6 million), effective from 5 March.

Chris Schutte, CEO of Astral, expressed that the unsolicited offer from CBH was welcome, as it was never intended to be a long-term investment.

He also stated in the same announcement: “At the time Astral acquired the 9.8% equity stake in Quantum during June 2020, there were unmitigated risks the...

Europe Looking Towards Air Freight Solutions Due To Continuing Attacks in Red Sea 

As Houthi terrorists continue to attack in the Red Sea, shipping and logistics companies also continue to provide updates on what the developments mean for cargo.

U.S. Central Command confirmed on March 12 that between 2 a.m. and 4:30 a.m. Sanaa time, Iranian-backed Houthi terrorists “fired one close-range ballistic missile from Houthi-controlled areas of Yemen toward USS Laboon in the Red Sea.” The U.S. government agency revealed that the missile did not impact the vessel, and that there...

Kroger Delivers Convenience and Fresh for Springtime Travelers

The Kroger Co. is sharing quick and easy spring break travel prep ideas, delivering fresh products, friendly service and affordable prices directly to customers' destinations.

"Whether you're planning a road trip to visit family and friends, gearing up for relaxation on the beach or seeking thrills at your favorite theme park, we look forward to connecting more customers to Kroger Delivery," said Rebekah Manis, Senior Director, Kroger Delivery Fulfillment Centers. "Our service enables us to meet our customers' needs during special moments like family vacations, providing exceptional friendly service from...

Podcast: Agri-Food for Thought Ep 7 - Meet Us in Las Vegas for the 48th Executive Conference

Join us at the 48th annual Executive Conference in Las Vegas, April 14-16! Featuring special guests: Russ Whitman and Chris Fastiggi. 

ANALYSIS: January Chicken Exports Off to a Strong Start

Although it may not be immediately evident based solely on the data, chicken export movement kicked off the year with quite a bang. Despite a 3.4%, or 21.6 million pound, year-over-year (YoY) reduction in total outward tonnage, January’s closing tally of 608.7 million pounds, was enough to position seasonal export figures at the third highest level realized in three decades.

Much like the annual comparisons, the month-over-month (MoM) figures also brought with them a modest reduction of 3.4%, or 21.6 million pounds...

Taco Bell Launches New Cantina Chicken Menu Nationally to Shake up the Daytime

Taco Bell, the brand synonymous with late night, is tackling misconceptions that cheesy, crunchy, spicy cravings can only be satisfied late-night. Introducing the all-new, elevated Cantina Chicken Menu; including five new menu items: The Cantina Chicken Soft Taco, Cantina Chicken Crispy Taco, Cantina Chicken Burrito, Cantina Chicken Quesadilla, and Cantina Chicken Bowl. Select items of the Cantina Chicken Menu are now available* to Taco Bell Rewards members and the full menu will be available to all fans on March 21...

TGI Fridays® Cures Busted Bracket Blues with Free Wings for Defeated Game Day Fans

Just in time for college basketball's biggest tournament of the year, TGI Fridays® is ensuring fans finish the season with a win – especially if their team does not. As fans chase after the elusive – and potentially impossible – perfect bracket, TGI Fridays is serving the ultimate rebound for anyone with a losing bracket. Turning L's into W's, the iconic dining chain is offering free wings as a consolation to every fan with a busted bracket.

Available all day, every day from the tournament tip-off...

Bellisio Foods Expands Fast-Growing Boston Market Frozen Retail Portfolio

Bellisio Foods, one of the nation's largest, most trusted frozen food companies, announced expansion of their frozen retail brand, Boston Market At Home, with the introduction of comfort-inspired Boston Market Sides, new entrees and an innovative snacking format.

"Boston Market At Home has been serving favorite comfort tastes in convenient frozen meals to local grocery stores for years," said Nicole Grimmius, Vice President of Marketing and Innovation at Bellisio Foods. "Bellisio is now expanding to offer consumers even more delicious options."...

Taylor Farms Pacific Recalls Kroger Brand Ready-To-Eat Apple Walnut With Chicken Salad Bowl Products

Taylor Farms Pacific, a Tracy, Calif. establishment, is recalling approximately 19,976 pounds of ready-to-eat (RTE) apple walnut with chicken salad bowl products due to misbranding and undeclared wheat allergen, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today. The product may contain wheat, a known allergen, which is not declared on the product label.

The RTE apple walnut with chicken salad bowl products were produced from Feb. 28, 2024, through March 9, 2024. The following products...

Deliveroo Guides For Higher Earnings, Positive Free Cash Flow

Deliveroo guided for further growth in its core earnings this year after its 2023 results were better than expected.

The food-delivery company expects its adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization—a metric that strips out exceptional and other one-off items—to be between 110 million and 130 million pounds ($141 million-$166 million) in 2024, it said Thursday. It guided for positive free cash flow for the year, and expects its gross transaction value to grow between 5% and 9%, with a first quarter...

DoorDash Expands Food Access for SNAP Customers With New Grocery Partners

Every day, millions of consumers look for affordable ways to set the table with their favorite dishes. Today, DoorDash (NASDAQ: DASH), the local commerce platform, is proud to expand its SNAP/EBT payment offering with additional grocers to make fresh food accessible to more people. Since launching support for SNAP/EBT payments in 2023, over 1.1 million consumers have added their SNAP/EBT cards to DoorDash. Consumers can order SNAP-eligible groceries using their SNAP benefits through our platform from over...

Navis Food Partners Announces Partnership with Prime Source Foods

Prime Source Foods, a center-of-the-plate distributor based in Londonderry, NH, announced today that it joined Navis Food Partners, a partnership of independent foodservice distributors in the Northeast. Prime Source Foods is a large independently owned, center-of-the-plate food distributor in New England and eastern New York.

The acquisition of Prime Source Foods strengthens Navis Food Partners’ presence in the protein category as well as its geographic service footprint in New England. Together with City Line Distributors, Navis Food Partners now covers northern...

Krystal Breaks Ground in North Carolina With New Design

Krystal Restaurants LLC, the original quick-service restaurant chain in the South, announces a strategic expansion into North Carolina, marking a pivotal step in the brand’s plans to expand across the United States. The new builds will boast a sleek and contemporary design and cater to consumers’ on-the-go dining desires. The location is projected to open in Fall 2024.

“We are proud to bring our standout business model and our innovative restaurant design to the state of North Carolina,” said Josh Kern, CEO of... 

USDA Identifies 2024 Food for Progress Priority Countries

USDA, through its administration of the Food for Progress Program, helps developing countries and emerging democracies modernize and strengthen their agricultural sectors. U.S. agricultural commodities donated to recipient countries are sold on the local market and the proceeds are used to support agricultural, economic, or infrastructure development programs.

Food for Progress has two principal objectives: to improve agricultural productivity and to expand trade of agricultural products. For Fiscal Year (FY) 2024, Food for Progress (FFPr) anticipates awarding seven new cooperative agreements, for projects of three- to five-years in duration...

Cargill Shares Outcome of the World’s First Wind-Powered Ocean Vessel’s Maiden Voyage

Cargill today revealed exciting results of the six-month test period of the Pyxis Ocean, underscoring the potential for the wind assisted propulsion technology in moving the shipping industry toward renewable energy use. The MC Shipping Kamsarmax vessel retrofitted with two WindWings® -large solid wind sails developed by BAR Technologies - - has achieved performance consistent with what was predicted which is equivalent to an average of 3 tonnes of fuel per day.

“We are encouraged by the results and have learned a great deal about...

Packaging Redesign for the HORMEL® NATURAL CHOICE® Brand Provides New Look, New Feel

The makers of the HORMEL® NATURAL CHOICE® brand have always prioritized the development of 100% natural1, delicious deli products that provide nourishment for consumers. Today, the brand team is unveiling a packaging redesign that delivers a refreshed logo, a TRUETASTE® Commitment and a reduction of packaging materials used.

The HORMEL® NATURAL CHOICE® line of deli products has a new look. In addition to a newly designed logo, the brand's food-forward redesign is also supported by lighter packaging...