Hormel Foods Welcome Jason Levine to Newly Created CMO Role

Hormel Foods has announced the appointment of seasoned industry leader, Jason Levine, to a newly created, enterprise-wide Chief Marketing Officer (CMO) role.

"We're excited to have Jason join us and take on this new role—an important step in advancing our marketing capabilities and driving growth across all segments of our business," said John Ghingo, president of Hormel Foods. "Jason brings deep expertise in global brand building, innovation, and digital strategy across well-known brands, and his leadership will help us...

Rollins, Chavez-DeRemer Pledge New Strategies to Reduce Welfare and Expand Work Opportunities

Today, U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins and U.S. Secretary of Labor Lori Chavez-DeRemer signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) (PDF, 258 KB) to fulfill common goals of helping low-income workers find sustainable employment.

“President Trump’s entire cabinet is working everyday to ensure hardworking Americans can enter the workforce – and have the skills necessary to succeed in our booming economy,” said Secretary Brooke Rollins. “Connecting low-income Americans, including Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) recipients, to education and employment opportunities is so important. This MOU signifies how our two agencies can further collaborate and use one...

USMEF Statement on Dr. Julie Callahan's Confirmation as USTR's Chief Ag Negotiator

The U.S. Senate has confirmed Dr. Julie Callahan to serve as chief agricultural negotiator at the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR).

U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF) President and CEO Dan Halstrom issued the following statement:

Julie Callahan brings an unparalleled level of knowledge, experience and dedication to this position and USMEF congratulates Dr. Callahan on her confirmation by the U.S. Senate. This is an especially critical time for agricultural trade, with ongoing negotiations between the U.S. and many key trading partners. USMEF thanks the U.S. Senate for its timely confirmation of a proven leader who is a tireless advocate for U.S. agriculture...

FMI Responds to November CPI Showing Continued Grocery Price Strain

The Food Industry Association (FMI) released a statement regarding the November Consumer Price Index (CPI) numbers issued by the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). The report, released earlier today, shows a 1.9% increase in food-at-home prices over the past 12 months.

FMI Vice President of Tax, Trade, Sustainability and Policy Development Andy Harig said the CPI numbers underscore the continued challenges grocery shoppers must navigate to get the most out of their grocery dollar. "Nevertheless, they remain resilient and savvy in the...

Chipotle Bets on the Protein Boom With Its First-Ever High-Protein Menu

Chipotle Mexican Grill is leaning into America’s protein obsession with the launch of its first-ever High Protein Menu, set to roll out across the United States and Canada next week on Tuesday, December 23.

The new lineup targets growing demand for convenient, protein-focused meals and snacks, highlighted by a High Protein Cup that packs 32 grams of protein from Adobo Chicken into a snackable portion.

In the US, prices start at $3.50 for a Single Chicken Taco at select locations, while the national weighted average price of a High Protein Cup of Adobo Chicken is $3.82...

Advancing US Leadership in Protein Innovation with the PROTEIN Act

Congresswoman Julia Brownley (CA-26) has introduced the PROTEIN Act to bolster US leadership in protein innovation amid rising global meat demand expected to double by 2050. The act addresses the US's lag in investment compared to other nations and aims to diversify protein sources to strengthen food security, stimulate economic growth, and tackle climate challenges.

The PROTEIN Act will support US farmers and expand domestic capacity via research centers, grant programs, and workforce development initiatives.

California, leading with over 150 companies, holds substantial...

A Record 159 Million Consumers Expected to Shop on Super Saturday

An estimated 158.9 million consumers plan to shop on the last Saturday before Christmas, according to the annual survey released today by the National Retail Federation and Prosper Insights & Analytics. The figure is up from 157.2 million shoppers last year and surpasses the previous record of 158.5 million in 2022.

“As the final Saturday before Dec. 25, Super Saturday is a significant shopping event for both consumers and retailers,” NRF Vice President of Industry and Consumer Insights Katherine Cullen said. “This year’s event falls only five days before the Christmas holiday, and...

ANALYSIS: Japan Reopens Market for German Agricultural Exports Following FMD Clearance

On November 12, 2025, Japan lifted its temporary ban on German beef exports, marking a significant win for Germany's food industry after the country regained its foot-and-mouth disease (FMD)-free status. The market reopening provides German beef exporters renewed access to Japan's lucrative market, particularly for premium beef offal products that command strong demand. German dairy producers also benefit from the restored access, with exports of untreated dairy products like raw milk cheese now authorized again...

ANALYSIS: Korea’s Nov 2025 Beef Imports Mark a Third Monthly Drop as Safeguard Caps Tighten

Korea’s beef imports in November 2025 fell for the third consecutive month at 26,211 metric tons (mt), according to data from the Korea Customs Service.

Falling 15.6% month-on-month (MOM), the 4,857 mt drop followed the activation of Special Agricultural Safeguards on Australian beef on September 12 which curbed inflows. Compared with a year earlier, shipments were down 20.9% or 6,906 mt.

Until 31 December 2025, beef imports from Australia face an ad-valorem Most Favored Nations (MFN) rate of 24.0%...

Foodservice Finds Momentum This Holiday Season Amid Shifting Consumer Spending

As the holidays approach and the year winds down, the foodservice industry competes with retail on how consumers stretch their dollars during "the most wonderful time of the year."

CNBC recently reported that, based on restaurant purchasing data, consumers continue to dine out, but many are opting for appetizer items instead of entrée menu options.

Despite the challenges of disease, supply issues, and rising costs, the American foodservice industry remains resilient and continues to find ways to tap into consumer spending this December, even as some consumers scale back.

The Retail Rundown: Holiday Demand Builds, Pork Steps Into the Spotlight

With just over a week remaining until Christmas, supermarket circulars are serving as the hub for holiday party planning. Most seasonal food shopping is expected to be concentrated this week, with fresh meat and deli items leading the charge.

Store traffic is poised to increase as retailers vie aggressively for holiday dollars in an increasingly competitive retail environment heading into 2026.

Pork took the top spot in this week’s protein features, fueled by a spike in holiday ham promotions. Pork accounted for 30% of total...

ANALYSIS: November Cattle on Feed Down 2% and Placements Down 10% in October from Year Ago Levels

Cattle on feed numbers for November were the lowest experienced for that month over the past 5 years although it did come close to surpassing 2022 levels. When comparing over the last 10 years, current levels are below every year except for 2015-2018, which was a period of cattle retention. On a state-by-state basis, the states that experienced a lower cattle inventory compared to 2024 for November were Arizona, California, Colorado, Oklahoma, and Texas. Of those, Colorado experienced the largest...

US Pork Exports Steady in September with Value Record for Mexico; Beef Exports Lowest Since Mid-2020

USDA has released red meat export data for September, which was delayed due to the recent government shutdown. As compiled by USMEF, September data showed a fairly steady performance for U.S. pork exports, matching year-ago value while down slightly in volume. But September beef exports were the lowest in more than five years, with shipments to China effectively halted and exports to other Asian markets also trending lower year-over-year.

“We are encouraged by the robust and resilient global demand for U.S. pork – especially in Mexico, but also in a broad range of international...

USDA Confirms Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza in a Dairy Herd in Wisconsin

Today, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) National Veterinary Services Laboratories (NVSL) confirmed via PCR (polymerase chain reaction) and ELISA (Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay) assay a detection of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5 clade 2.3.4.4b in a dairy cattle herd in Wisconsin. APHIS will complete genetic sequencing and announce final results as soon as they are available. This confirmation was a result of routine National Milk Testing Strategy testing, not pre-movement surveillance.

This marks the first known case of HPAI... 

Yum China Announces $460 Million Share Buyback in US and Hong Kong

Yum China Holdings entered into share repurchase agreements in the US and Hong Kong for a total repurchase amount of approximately $460 million for the first half of 2026, commencing on January 12, 2026. The agreement includes approximately US$350 million under Rule 10b5-1 of the United States Securities Exchange Act of 1934 in the US and approximately HK$880 million for a similar program in Hong Kong.

The share repurchase program agreements serve as a key element in...

ANALYSIS: US 2025 Vanishing 600K-Head Slaughter Weeks Signal Supply Crunch and Price Spike

In 2025, weekly cattle slaughter has surpassed the 600,000-head mark only four times year-to-date a sharp departure from 2024, when such volumes were reached 32 times by this point in the year, translating to an 88% reduction in 600,000 head or more weeks. This trend mirrors 2015, when the market sat at a similar stage in the cattle cycle and never hit that threshold. Year-to-date slaughter is currently running 6.6% below 2024 levels... 

Major EU Project to Investigate the Rise of Commercial Cattle Farming

A major project has received significant European Union (EU) funding to investigate how commercial cattle farming first emerged in Europe, setting in motion economic, social and environmental shifts that shaped the continent from the medieval period to the modern era.

Led by University College Cork (UCC) researcher Dr Eugene Costello, the groundbreaking project aims to uncover the pre-industrial roots of commercial cattle farming, an industry that reshaped Europe’s landscapes and evolved into a major force in the global food economy...

ANALYSIS: China’s Nov 2025 Meat Imports Nosedive 20.2% MOM as Customs Scrutiny Intensifies

China’s November 2025 meat imports, variety meats included slumped a hefty 20.2% from a month before at 392,641 metric tons (mt), according to preliminary data from the General Administration of Customs of China (GACC).

Inbound tonnage plunged by nearly 100,000 mt for the second consecutive month as tightened customs inspection checks delayed operations, especially during what is normally the peak season for red meat consumption.

ANALYSIS: Brazil’s Beef Exports to Mexico Ease in November

November data shows that Brazil’s beef exports to Mexico held at higher year-over-year (YOY) levels, even as volumes moved lower for a third consecutive month. Shipments peaked in September and then eased through October and November, reflecting a gradual adjustment from the mid-year highs. Despite this downward trend, the Mexican import market continued to rely on Brazilian product to supplement domestic availability. Participants reported that cattle movements inside Mexico remain limited, particularly for finished cattle moving from southern regions, as New World Screwworm inspections and controls...

MEATZY Launches Subscription Service for Premium Meat and Seafood Delivery

MEATZY, an innovative subscription service delivering high-quality meat directly to customers' doors, has officially launched.

Developed by industry veterans with experience in supplying proteins to over 100 luxury resorts and leading chefs, MEATZY promises an exceptional culinary experience with premium beef, chicken, pork, and seafood at consistent prices.

"Protein prices keep climbing, and families are paying more for meat that's often lower quality than they realize," said the co-founder, Jorge Arevalo. "We built MEATZY to give people access to chef-grade protein...

USTR Sets Phased Tariffs on Non-Compliant Imports from Nicaragua; Beef and Seafood Affected?

The office of the US Trade Representative (USTR) will impose phased tariffs on Nicaraguan goods that do not meet the standards for the Dominican Republic–Central America–United States Free Trade Agreement (CAFTA-DR), following a Section 301 determination that Nicaragua’s acts and policies on labor rights, human rights, and the rule of law are unreasonable and burden or restrict US commerce, according to a press release...

Acosta Group Unveils 2026 Top Consumer Predictions  

Acosta Group has unveiled its four consumer predictions for 2026, highlighting the increasing importance of personalization and innovation for achieving success and relevance.

Colin Stewart, EVP of Business Intelligence at Acosta Group, noted, "Technology and evolving consumer lifestyles continue to reshape the shopping experience, as do the expectations, priorities, and values driving purchases. This creates fresh opportunities for brands, retailers, and foodservice operators to predict consumer needs and drive excitement and trust," based on comprehensive research conducted with the company's 40,000-member shopper community.

The predictions include:

• Shoppers turning to...

Farmers, Producers, and Ag Leaders Praise President Trump’s Farmer Bridge Assistance Program

U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins today highlighted the outpouring of support from governors, commodity groups, farm bureaus, and agriculture industry leaders across the country following President Trump’s announcement of $12 billion in Farmer Bridge Assistance Program payments. As producers battle historic market disruptions, rising input costs, and the lingering effects of foreign trade manipulation, agriculture leaders are praising the administration’s swift action to deliver relief and strengthen the farm safety net. Below is a compilation of what they are saying about this critical support for...

Farm Bureau Welcomes USDA Approach to Regenerative Agriculture

American Farm Bureau President Zippy Duvall today commented on the announcement by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) about a new Regenerative Agriculture Initiative that leverages existing programs, the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) and the Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP), to advance regenerative practices.

“We value USDA’s acknowledgement that farmers have long practiced regenerative agriculture on their farms, both through federal conservation programs and on their own. Building on these efforts by leveraging existing voluntary and incentive-based programs to advance additional regenerative goals sounds like smart...

ANALYSIS: Australia Sets New High for Beef Exports at 1.39M mt in Nov 2025 Despite Tariff Odds

Australia’s beef exports reached an unprecedented 1,398,224 metric tons (mt) in cumulative volume through November 2025, according to the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF).

Despite global trade pressures, multi‑decade herd lows in the United States (US) worked in Australia's favor, allowing it to increase supplies to the world's largest beef consumer. Reduced United States (US)) supply led Japan and Korea to rely more heavily on Australian beef.

Beyond supply constraints, the US‑Sino trade war cleared the...

ANALYSIS: Texas 2025 Beef Quality Surges as Select Supplies Collapse to Record Lows

Texas has reached record-low Select grading percentages, falling roughly 26% below 2024 levels and settling near 20% of cattle grading Select in Texas. At the same time, the state is posting a 52-week high for Choice grade, with nearly 69% of cattle grading in that category. This shift reflects a notable quality improvement in the cattle being harvested and marks one of the most pronounced grade spreads the region has seen in recent years. 

A number of factors are contributing to the...

ANALYSIS: Loads Traded and Consumer Buying Trends for Ribs and 0x1 Strips in November

With bone-in heavy and boneless heavy ribs both at higher price levels this year, buyers were looking for a more economical option for the holidays. Bone-in heavy ribs were roughly 11% higher compared to 2024 and about 17% more than the three-year average. Boneless heavy ribs were 9.39% higher compared to 2024 and about 18% more than the three-year average. Strips were no exception, with them being 20% more than 2024 and 29% higher than the three-year...

ANALYSIS: Uruguayan Beef Exports Rebounded 18.1% MOM to 35,492 mt in November 2025, Up 5.1% YOY

According to the latest data from Uruguay’s National Customs Directorate, fresh beef (chilled and frozen) exports rebounded in November following three consecutive monthly declines, rising 18.1% from October to 35,492 mt. On a year-over-year (YOY) basis, volumes were also higher, marking a 5.1% increase compared to the same period last year...

The Retail Rundown: A Preview of Christmas Favorites

Few protein items embody the year-end holiday spirit quite like the classic Christmas ham and the standing rib roast. These iconic centerpiece proteins often dominate holiday tables, shaping both wholesale market trends and retail advertising strategies.

This year, the wholesale beef rib market kicked off its seasonal rise in late July, climbing 32% between July 28 and Thanksgiving week. Since then, the market has shifted into typical year-end procurement mode with a generally steady undertone, and holiday buying is expected to wrap soon...

Farm Bureau: Farmers Grateful for Help Through Economic Storm

American Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall commented today on USDA’s announcement to provide financial relief and an economic bridge for America’s farmers and ranchers until benefits from the One Big Beautiful Bill Act reach the farm.

“Farmers are grateful to President Trump and Secretary Brooke Rollins for providing resources that, for many, could make the difference between staying in business to plant another crop, or shuttering a family farm.

“America’s farmers have been hit from every direction during this economic storm. They face the same high prices as all of...

Trump Admin Roundtable Discussion: Bridge Payments to Farmers, Soybean Purchases, Fair Trade, EUDR

On December 8, US President Trump held a roundtable meeting with members of the US farming community, Agriculture Secretary Rollins, Treasury Secretary Bessent, and others at the White House to announce monetary support to farmers impacted by the US trade policy. 

The administration announced plans to provide $12 billion in tariff income-fueled support for farmers, to address the high costs of farm equipment, and to examine anti-competitive behavior in the food supply chain...

Instacart App Launches in OpenAI ChatGPT 

Instacart (NASDAQ: CART), the leading grocery technology company in North America, today announced that it is the first grocery partner to launch an app on ChatGPT and the first to offer an embedded, end-to-end shopping and Instant Checkout -- all within the context of a ChatGPT conversation. This new integration makes it easier than ever for people to go from meal inspiration to doorstep delivery, using Instacart's real-time grocery network and fulfillment capabilities with the help of OpenAI frontier model capabilities.

"Instacart and ChatGPT are redefining what's possible in AI-powered shopping," said Anirban...

FDA’s 30-Month Traceability Rule Extension Draws Spotlight as January Deadline Nears

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) first proposed in August 2025 to extend the compliance deadline for its Food Traceability Rule (FTR) by 30 months—a move that, if finalized, would push the date from January 20, 2026, to July 20, 2028.

As of now, companies are still required to comply by January 2026, which is just over a month away. This looming deadline, coupled with the proposal’s uncertainty, has sharply heightened industry anxiety, with some warning of possible operational shutdowns or severe disruptions for those unable...

Secretary Rollins Announces Major Investment for Rural Communities Across Georgia

Today in Georgia, U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins announced $501 million in investments for 59 rural development projects and an additional $405 million in affordable housing in communities across the state of Georgia. These unprecedented investments, coordinated by U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Development (RD), will help boost Georgia’s economy, develop rural infrastructure, and encourage private investment in America’s heartland.

“President Trump understands how important it is to have a safe, secure, and resilient farm economy. These USDA investments are a direct result of the promise President Trump made to make rural....

Global Appetite Drives Australian Beef and Goatmeat Exports to New Highs

Australia has officially broken the record for the highest volume of beef exported in a calendar year, with year-to-date exports reaching 1.398 million tonnes, up 15% year-on-year.

This milestone reflects broad-based global demand for high-quality Australian red meat and the strength of the industry’s domestic productive capacity. 

The United States remains Australia’s largest beef export destination, with 412,068 tonnes shipped so far this year, up 17% YoY. 

This growth is particularly significant given the implementation of a 10% tariff on Australian exports including...

ANALYSIS: US Cattle Live Weights Reach New Record Highs in Oct 2025

After starting the year with all-time-high average monthly live cattle weights of 1,439 lbs, average weights eased slightly through the spring and summer before moving higher again. October has now posted a fresh record at 1,448 lbs. Seasonally, weights tend to trend upward into late fall, with the possibility of a brief pullback in December depending on weather and marketing pace. The weekly estimated numbers from the USDA’s production report shows that figures will continue to increase for November, expected to be at...

ANALYSIS: US Government Shutdown Effects at the Retail Level for Coarse Grinds

Coarse grinds are an item that people in the SNAP program tend to favor due to their affordability within the beef complex. During the government shutdown, when SNAP went unfunded and then eventually received partial funding, market participants began to wonder what effect this would have on coarse grinds at the retail level.

When comparing the shutdown period to the same time last year, distribution for 70-77% lean and 78-84% lean both experienced decreases. Many in the market anticipated this because the lower lean percentages are the more popular blends within the grinds...

The Retail Rundown: Holiday Shopping Lifts Foodservice and Grocery Demand 

December is when most consumers fully embrace the holiday spirit—and start spending accordingly.

This year's holiday spending is off to a strong start, with record shopper turnout and a surge in online activity. Adobe Analytics reports that total online sales from Thanksgiving through Cyber Monday amounted to $44.2 billion, up nearly 8% from last year.

Meanwhile, the National Retail Federation reports that a record 202.9 million people shopped over the Thanksgiving weekend, up from 197 million last year. Supermarkets were the most popular destination at 47%, followed closely by online shopping at 45%...

UNFI Reports Solid Start to Fiscal 2026

United Natural Foods (UNFI) has reported the results of its financial performance for the first quarter of its 2026 fiscal year.

"We started fiscal 2026 with another quarter of solid execution and continued progress in delivering more value to our customers and suppliers as we strengthen effectiveness and efficiency. Our network optimization is proceeding ahead of schedule, and the benefits of recent supply chain investments, coupled with process improvements, is enabling us to strengthen service levels and increase throughput. This helped us deliver Adjusted EBITDA growth of nearly 25%...

ANALYSIS: Argentina’s Fresh Beef Exports Fall 7.9% MOM to 66,571 mt in October 2025

The latest data released by Argentina’s National Institute of Statistics and Census indicated that fresh beef exports (chilled and frozen) fell for the second consecutive month in October, further offsetting the gains accumulated during the steady upward trend observed from April to August. Shipments totaled 66,571 mt in October, down 7.9% compared to the previous month and 4.5% lower than...

ANALYSIS: Winter Buying Spurs Japan’s Oct 2025 Beef Imports to Six-Month Highs

Japan’s beef imports in October 2025 rebounded sharply to a six-month high at 49,185 metric tons (mt), according to the latest data released by Japan’s Trade Statistics.

Driven by seasonal winter restocking, inbound volumes vaulted 28.3% MOM (+10,841 mt) from September’s six-month low, climbing across major suppliers to a level not seen since April 2025. Japan also received its first shipment of beef from Sweden in over three decades, totaling just 2.25 mt...

ANALYSIS: EU Pork Exports Ticked Up During September 2025

EU pork exports increased marginally during September, as decreased EU price levels supported EU exporters' competitiveness on the global market. In September, exports of fresh and frozen pork meat, along with total pork exports, including by-products and processed pork, increased compared to August. 

Exports of fresh and frozen pork meat grew strongly by 6.6% month-over-month (MOM) to 152,539 mt, while the overall volume of pork exports increased by 1.0% m-o-m in September to a total of 334,338 mt. Additionally, elevated price levels for alternative proteins such as beef and poultry supported the demand for pork meat on the global markets...

Expana Publication Schedule for the Thanksgiving Day Holiday

Expana will be observing the Thanksgiving Day holiday on Thursday and Friday, November 27 and 28, which will impact the publication of some Expana Benchmark Prices. All US offices will be closed on those days; daily reports (red meat, poultry, eggs) will not be published, and the following weekly, biweekly, and monthly reports will be impacted:

• Pork, US Pork Export Market to Mexico and Latin America, will be published on Wednesday, November 26
• Beef, APAC, will be published on Wednesday, November 26
• Beef, Certified Angus Beef, will...

ANALYSIS: Mexican Beef Imports Strengthen on Year-End Demand 

The US market registered a notable increase in beef imports from Mexico during October and the first weeks of November, as buyers moved to secure year-end coverage. Fresh beef cuts reached 4,216 metric tons in the second week of November, the highest weekly volume in the past 52 weeks. Trimmings also posted a 52-week high at 462 metric tons, reflecting a similar uptick in activity. This recent strength contrasts with the softer tone seen in the spring, when limited availability in Mexico kept import volumes...

ANALYSIS: New Zealand’s Oct 2025 Beef Exports Hit Five-Year Trough as Output Cuts Back

New Zealand’s beef exports in October 2025 fell to the lowest level in five years, shedding for the fifth straight month at 25,581 metric tons (mt), according to the latest data from Stats NZ.

Sinking to the lowest level since October 2020, outbound shipments fell another 4.9% month-on-month (MOM) or 1,314 mt lower.

The decline was driven by lower shipments to the United States (US), China, Japan, and Korea, while shipments to Canada and the United Kingdom (UK) recorded strong gains...

ANALYSIS: The Evolving US Tariff Landscape and Implications for Brazilian Beef

Recent tariff policy changes in the US reshaped market conditions for Brazilian beef suppliers. Earlier in the year, Brazil had faced a sharp slowdown in beef exports to the US after reciprocal tariffs were introduced. In the latest policy changes last week, the US announced new reciprocal trade frameworks across Central and South America and selected Asian markets. Initially, Brazil remained subject to the separate 40% additional tariff, which was also lifted later in the week, fully aligning Brazil with the new tariff-free conditions. 

Brazilian fresh beef exports...

ANALYSIS: US Clod Tender Chaos, 2025 Blows the Roof Off Beef Pricing Records

The Choice clod tender has maintained record highs in 2025 compared with previous years, reaching a seasonal peak above $11.00/lb. Even after softening from mid‑October into late November, the current value near $9.32/lb remains well above the same period in 2022–2024, underscoring a firm pricing environment. This year’s price trajectory is a clear outlier, driven by active demand and notably constrained supplies. 

Seasonal trends remain intact across the years shown: prices typically build through late spring and summer before easing into fall. In 2025, that familiar pattern is...

ANALYSIS: Fall Pork Supply Review - Slaughter Strength and Cutout Reduction

The weekly carcass cutout shows a clear and uninterrupted decline beginning in early September and extending through Friday’s close on 11/21/25, with values retracing steadily from a late-summer rally, which saw the cutout at 3-year highs, marking the seasonal decline for 2025 commencing much later than in previous years. Since the first week of September, the downturn has been gradual but persistent, shaped by fully adequate product availability, softer domestic demand, and a measured export pull that has not generated the counter-seasonal lift typically observed during this timeframe...

USDA Welcomes Nevada into State Meat and Poultry Inspection Program

U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins today announced that Nevada has met USDA’s rigorous "at least equal to" food safety standard and will be joining the State Meat and Poultry Inspection (MPI) Program. Nevada’s participation expands local inspection capacity, food safety oversight, and boosts market access for small and very small processors. This vital partnership builds on USDA’s recently released suite of actions to strengthen the American beef industry.

“We are strengthening the backbone of America’s food system by forging true partnerships with states and empowering local producers,” said Secretary Rollins. “Today’s action builds on our commitment to deliver clear, accountable food safety standards and support small...

ANALYSIS: New US Imported Beef Tariff Landscape Effects Ahead of 2026 

On Thursday November 20, the White House signed an order to remove the 40% tariff on a variety of Brazilian agricultural products, which included beef. This announcement came after reciprocal tariffs were lifted on November 13, allowing other major beef exporters like Australia, New Zealand, Nicaragua, Argentina, and Uruguay to no longer contend with an extra 10-18% tariff depending on the origin.

US domestic beef prices have reached record highs as cattle supplies in the region are lower given the cyclical nature of cattle supply...

Chipotle Names Josh Weinstein to Its Board of Directors

Chipotle Mexican Grill today announced a new addition to its board of directors, Josh Weinstein, effective immediately.

Josh Weinstein has served as Chief Executive Officer and as a member of the Board of Directors of Carnival Corporation & plc, one of the world's largest leisure travel companies, since 2022. During his over 20-year tenure with Carnival Corporation & plc, he served as its Chief Operations Officer from 2020 to 2022; President of Carnival UK from 2017 to 2020; Treasurer from 2007 to 2017; and as an attorney in the corporate...

PODCAST: Agri-Food for Thought Ep 37 - Thanksgiving Dinner Index Up 28% in 2025 

Expana presents Agri-Food for Thought, the podcast series for agriculture and food professionals.

On today's episode, we dive into Expana's 2025 Thanksgiving Dinner Index. 2025 has been an extraordinary year. When we look back, we’ve seen unprecedented geopolitical events unfold, tariffs, trade agreements, inflation and other economic uncertainties. How has this impacted Thanksgiving staples? Listen now!

Nebraska Cattlemen Disappointed by Tyson Foods' Beef Processing Plant Closure in Lexington

The Nebraska Cattlemen Board of Directors released the following statement in response to Tyson Foods’ announcement it will permanently close the beef processing plant in Lexington: 

“We are disappointed by Tyson’s decision to permanently close the Lexington beef processing facility – especially in light of today’s USDA data indicating that Nebraska cattle-on-feed inventories remain slightly above year-ago levels in spite of the ongoing cyclical tightness in overall U.S. cattle numbers. We firmly believe there isn’t a better place to efficiently and economically raise cattle and produce beef than Nebraska. As this...

China Pushes Back Beef Anti-Dumping Probe to January 26

China’s anti-dumping investigation into imported beef will be extended by another two months until January 26, 2026, according to the China’s Ministry of Commerce (MOFCOM). 

Initially scheduled to conclude in August 2025, the investigation timeline was first extended by three months to November 26 “due to the large workload and complex case,” the ministry stated on August 6. 

MOFCOM began the investigation on December 27, 2024, following a request from China’s Animal Agriculture Association and nine industry associations representing major beef-producing areas...

Navigating the Trump Tariff Turbulence: A Comprehensive Timeline

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

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

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

ANALYSIS: US Choice Chuck Flap at a Record High

Chuck flap is an item that can be cooked in many ways. Most of the time, this cut is slow cooked but can be used in high-heat cooking depending on its intended use. On the East Coast, specifically the New England area, consumer buying interest is driven by dishes that include steak tips, which favor the slow cooking method. 

I bring up these cooking methods because recently the Choice chuck flap reached a record high. This is due to increased demand for the cut, specifically driven right now by buying interest from market...

USDA Update on Coordinated Federal Response To Protect United States From New World Screwworm

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), in close collaboration with our interagency partners and Mexico’s El Servicio Nacional de Sanidad, Inocuidad y Calidad Agroalimentaria (SENASICA), has made considerable progress in reducing the overall threat of New World screwworm (NWS) to U.S. agriculture and mitigating northern movement of the fly within Mexico. As of November 21, NWS has not been detected in any animals or traps in the United States, and the vast majority of cases within Mexico remain concentrated in southern parts of the country. The Trump Administration remains steadfast in its resolve to safeguard America’s rural economy...

Serving Holidays with a Side of Chaos: Dr. Seuss's The Grinch Meal Is Coming to McDonald's

CODE PICKLE: Dr. Seuss's The Grinch has successfully slipped into the Golden Arches and on Dec. 2, he's unleashing The Grinch Meal. The meal, made in partnership with Dr. Seuss Enterprises and McDonald's, will be available at participating restaurants nationwide for a limited time, while supplies last. His diabolical culinary debut features Dill Pickle "Grinch Salt" McShaker Fries, arriving for the first time in the U.S.

Sprinkle the tangy, dill pickle seasoning into the McShaker bag and shake for a bold...

Save A Lot and Forage Launch SNAP EBT Payments on Uber Eats

Forage, the mission-driven payments company, and Save A Lot, one of the nation's largest value-focused grocers, today announced that SNAP EBT is live on Uber Eats at more than 325 participating Save A Lot locations. The launch makes it easier for families in food deserts, seniors, people with disabilities, and households without reliable transportation to get groceries delivered the same day.

"As a hometown grocer, we serve many communities where full-service grocery options are limited," said...

ANALYSIS: China’s Oct 2025 Beef Imports Retreat from Record Highs at 281,292 mt

China’s October 2025 beef imports eased back from September’s record highs at 281,292 metric tons (mt), according to the latest data from the General Administration of Customs of China (GACC).

While inbound tonnage slips, volumes remained the second highest on record this year. Shipments fell 11.0% month-on-month (MOM) or 34,593 mt, driven by declines from most key suppliers like Argentina, Australia, Brazil, New Zealand, and Uruguay. Bolivia was the sole exception, partially offsetting the overall drop...

ANALYSIS: Brazil-Mexico Beef Imports Ease Ahead of PACIC Renewal  

Brazil’s beef exports to Mexico moved lower in October, as participants reported being adequately covered for both short- and medium-term needs, reducing the urgency for additional bookings. Some participants had maintained a more cautious stance while the industry awaited the decision on the PACIC renewal, which was finally confirmed this week. The announcement removed a point of uncertainty, although participants indicated that it is still too early to determine whether the extension will materially influence short-term import activity...

ANALYSIS: China’s October 2025 Meat Imports Halt Four-Month Rally, Slump 10% MOM

China’s October 2025 meat imports, variety meats included, came in at about 490,000 metric tons (mt), slumping 9.9% compared to a month ago, according to preliminary data from the General Administration of Customs of China (GACC).

Inbound tonnage pulled back nearly 55,000 mt, a marked reversal from August’s figures following four straight months of growth.

On an annual basis, imports fell 8.4%. The lingering impact of official alcohol curbs has carried into the second half, with upscale dining and hospitality still struggling to rebound, hindering...

Australia: Beef Production Hits Record Highs as Lamb and Mutton Turnoff Slows

Australia’s cattle industry continues to set new benchmarks, with the latest Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) figures confirming record beef production for the September quarter.

At the same time, sheep and lamb slaughter has eased significantly following last year’s peak turnoff.

Meat & Livestock Australia (MLA)’s Manager for Market Information, Stephen Bignell said that strong seasonal conditions across northern Australia have underpinned the surge in cattle numbers.

Pork Exports Remain Strong in August; Beef Decline Continues; Lamb Exports Trend Higher

USDA has released August red meat export data, which was delayed due to the lengthy government shutdown. As compiled by the U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF), August data showed a relatively strong performance for U.S. pork exports and an uptick in shipments of U.S. lamb cuts. But beef exports were sharply lower than a year ago, impacted heavily by an impasse with China that has effectively locked U.S. beef out of the world’s largest import market.

August pork exports totaled 236,311 metric tons (mt), down 1% from a year ago, valued at $685.9 million (down 2%)....

AHDB - Cautious Global Pork Market Outlook for 2026

Rabobank’s latest pork report presents a cautious global pork market outlook heading into 2026. Despite easing feed costs due to record North American crop harvests and favourable planting conditions in South America, growth remains constrained by the influence of trade tensions, disease risks, and regulatory challenges. Producers are prioritising better productivity, biosecurity, and heavier carcass weights to offset limited herd expansion.

Regional Highlights

Europe (EU-27 + UK)

European pork production increased by 3.5% year-on-year (YOY) in July 2025, led by Spain (+7%) and Poland (+5%). Exports rose 3% YOY, supported by the recent US-China trade tensions. However...

The Retail Rundown: Cheaper Turkeys Hit Shelves Despite Wholesale Price Surge

This Thanksgiving, holiday shoppers might spot some relief: retail turkey prices have eased, even as wholesale values climb toward near-record highs.

Ongoing challenges, such as persistent bird flu outbreaks and relatively low hatch rates, have limited production all year, leaving supplies exceptionally thin ahead of the holiday. 

While retailers secure turkeys well in advance to build cold-storage inventories, frozen whole-bird stocks in 2025 remain near seasonal record lows, leaving little supply cushion...

Americans Plan to Dine Out More in 2026 as OpenTable Reports Strong Industry Growth

OpenTable’s newly released 2026 Dining Trends Report shows that despite mixed views on the economy, Americans continue to prioritize eating out, driving steady growth across the foodservice industry.

According to the analysis, dining out increased 8% year-over-year in 2025, and consumers expect for that to increase in 2026.

"As we head into 2026, there's good news for the restaurant industry: our new research shows that people continue to make room in their lives and budgets for dining out...

ANALYSIS: Australia’s Q3 2025 Beef Production Soar to Record Highs, Cattle Kills Highest Since 1978

Australia’s Q3 2025 beef production surged to a record 759,270 metric tons (mt), as cattle slaughters hit their highest level since 1978, according to the latest data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS).

Rising 5.8% from Q2, the quarterly increment of 41,379 mt was fueled by growth across all beef-producing regions, led by strong gains in Queensland, Australia’s top producer, and New South Wales...

Farm Bureau: Cost of Thanksgiving Dinner Declines

Cooking a Thanksgiving dinner for your friends and family will cost less than last year, marking the third straight year of price declines. The American Farm Bureau Federation’s 40th annual Thanksgiving dinner survey provides a snapshot of the average cost of Thanksgiving staples that make up a classic holiday feast for 10, which is $55.18 or about $5.52 per person.

This is a 5% decrease from 2024. Three years of declines don’t fully erase dramatic increases that led to a record-high cost of $64.05 in 2022.

The centerpiece on most Thanksgiving tables – the turkey...

ANALYSIS: US Dairy Herd Shows Continued Robust Growth

The USDA’s September data showed a pronounced expansion in the US dairy herd in the 24 selected states; an increase of 235,000 cows year-over-year was reported. This marked acceleration from recent months. That gain helped lift national herd counts well above 2024 levels for much of 2025.

Producers are driving growth by retaining higher and mid‑producing cows for additional lactation cycles and keeping back added heifers on the farm. Those retention choices reflect the push for many operations to produce more milk to...

Andrews Meat Industries Acquires Prime Cut Meats to Boost Turnover and Expand Distribution 

Andrews Meat Industries (AMI), part of the JBS Australia food group, has acquired Queensland-based foodservice wholesaler Prime Cut Meats (PCM). This strategic acquisition is expected to increase AMI's turnover to over $650 million in the coming financial year.

Both family-managed businesses, AMI and PCM, share a commitment to quality and service, making this partnership a natural fit. AMI CEO Peter Andrews expressed confidence that the acquisition will augment PCM's reputation and enhance distribution capabilities in Queensland...

Proposed WOTUS Rule Protects Environment, Respects Farmers

American Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall commented today on the EPA and Army Corps of Engineers’ proposed Waters of the United States rule.

“Clean water is a top priority for farmers and ranchers – we depend on it. We are pleased that the new rule protects critical water sources while respecting the efforts of farmers to protect the natural resources they’ve been entrusted with...

NCBA Secures New WOTUS Proposed Rule that Protects Family Farmers and Ranchers

Today, the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) announced support for the new proposed Waters of the United States (WOTUS) rule released by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The revised WOTUS rule comes after decades of advocacy by NCBA and our state affiliate partners to remove confusing and burdensome regulations on cattle farmers and ranchers.

“Waters of the U.S. has been a longstanding and frustrating issue for family farmers and ranchers. Every few years, the definition of a ‘water of the U.S.’ has changed. Often, this meant that small water features like prairie potholes or dry ditches suddenly fell under federal regulation,” said NCBA...

ANALYSIS: US Hog Weights Edge Higher

Average live hog weights continue to firm seasonally, with the latest packer-sold average at 293.72 lb, up 1.4% month-over-month (MOM) and 1.8% higher year-over-year (YOY). Packer-owned weights averaged 285.63 lb, rising 0.6% MOM but sitting 0.3% lower YOY, reflecting a mostly steady to higher tone relative to last...

FMI Praises President Trump’s Actions to Reduce Tariffs on Food Products

Today, FMI – The Food Industry Association resoundingly applauded President Trump for signing a presidential order that reduces tariffs on food and agricultural products not grown at all or in sufficient quantities in the United States to fully meet consumer demand. FMI President and CEO Leslie G. Sarasin offered the following statement.

“FMI is grateful and extremely pleased at President’s Trump’s actions to cut tariffs on a wide swathe of food and agriculture products. Today’s action should help consumers, whose morning cup of coffee will hopefully become more affordable, as well as U.S. manufacturers, which utilize many of these products in their supply chains and production lines. 

USMEF Elects New Officers, Examines Reciprocal Trade Opportunities and USMCA Review

The U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF) concluded its Strategic Planning Conference Friday with election of its new officers. Chairing USMEF for the 2025-26 term is Jay Theiler, executive vice president of corporate affairs for Agri Beef Company, based in Boise, Idaho. 

Theiler recalled his early days with Agri Beef, when the company came to realize that it could not maximize the value of each head of livestock processed by selling product only in the Pacific Northwest, or even in the entire United States.

PODCAST: Agri-Food for Thought Ep 36 - Essential Procurement Skills & Advice, Feat. Malcolm Harrison

Expana presents Agri-Food for Thought, the podcast series for agriculture and food professionals.

On today's episode, we welcome Malcolm Harrison, an international board-level executive with expertise in general management, operations, procurement, and sales. He has worked in diverse business environments across Brazil, China, France, Gulf states, the UK, the US, and West Africa. A veteran and engaging leader, Malcolm has always sought to improve business performance through growth and efficiency. He has a track record of quickly identifying gaps and opportunities for continuous improvement

Economic Impact Report Quantifies Instacart's Role as Grocery Industry Growth Engine and Job Creator

An Economic Impact Report released today by Instacart, the leading grocery technology company in North America, features new internal and third-party data revealing how its platform powers growth, earnings, and food access across the grocery economy in the U.S. and Canada. What began more than a decade ago as a same-day grocery delivery app has grown into a vital ecosystem that fuels economic opportunity, strengthens communities, and makes fresh, affordable food more accessible for...

Walmart Announces Leadership Transition as John Furner Succeeds Doug McMillon

The Board of Directors has elected John Furner to succeed Doug McMillon as President and Chief Executive Officer of Walmart Inc., effective February 1, 2026. He was also elected to the company's Board of Directors, effective immediately.

“John Furner is the right leader to guide Walmart into our next chapter of growth and transformation,” said Greg Penner, Chairman of Walmart Inc.

With more than three decades with the brand, Furner brings a dynamic set of skills and experience to his new role. He began his...

Q3 Results Drive Foodservice Headlines in First Half of November

Major industry players across the business captured attention in the first half of the month as foodservice providers released new insights from their quarterly reports.

Many restaurants are facing challenges in the third quarter as US consumers cut back on frequent dining. This compilation provides a thorough overview of key players' performance results and the latest in the most notable company news.

QSR's

McDonald's Q3, FY 2025

McDonald's reported a 3.6% increase in global same-store sales for the third quarter, surpassing analysts' expectations...

ANALYSIS: UK Cattle Supply Expected to Tighten by 2026

UK cattle supplies are expected to decline further in 2026, influenced by the reduced calf registrations observed in 2024 and 2025. Producer confidence remains mixed due to uncertainties about the industry’s future, impacted by policy changes such as farm payment reforms and potential inheritance tax adjustments. These factors might accelerate culling activities if producers decide to downsize or exit production, potentially affecting prime cattle availability at the beginning of 2026.

Expanding the beef herd requires time to cycle through production, suggesting that supply recovery in 2026 may be limited. Market analysts caution...

The Retail Rundown: A Season of Plenty, Except for Turkey

For retailers, this year’s holiday season is shaping up to be one of plenty. The National Retail Federation (NRF) projects November and December sales to surpass $1 trillion for the first time, underscoring consumers’ continued spending power.

“American consumers may be cautious in sentiment, yet remain fundamentally strong and continue to drive U.S. economic activity,” said NRF President and CEO Matthew Shay.

While foodservice outlets are poised to capture consumer traffic on hectic days, retail prepared foods and frozen entrées are well-positioned to compete for at-home dining occasions as shoppers seek convenient, time-saving meal solutions...

Farm Bureau Applauds Progress to End Shutdown

American Farm Bureau President Zippy Duvall today applauded the Senate vote to end the government shutdown and urged the House to act quickly.

"Farm Bureau commends the Senate for voting to end the government shutdown, ensuring that farmers and ranchers can continue to rely on critical USDA services and disaster relief to keep their farms running and also ensure Americans maintain access to food assistance programs...

ANALYSIS: Brazil’s Oct Beef Exports Up 1.9% MOM to 320,558 MT, Setting Second Consecutive Record

The latest data released by Brazil’s Ministry of Development, Industry, Trade, and Services indicated that October’s fresh beef (chilled and frozen) exports totaled 320,558 mt, surpassing September’s previous record of 314,690 mt by 1.9% and setting a new all-time high. On a year-over-year (YOY) basis, this represents an 18.6% growth from October last...

ANALYSIS: US Pork Ham Relative to Thanksgiving Turkey and Beef

US domestic bone-in ham values were above last year’s levels from late July through late October but have recently moved below 2024 levels in early November as more product became available on the spot market.

Bone-in hams continue to present a clear value story heading into Thanksgiving, with 23/27 lb trimmed selected hams at $0.89/lb running about 50% under 16 lb tom turkeys at $1.79/lb and far below beef items such as the 109E rib...

ANALYSIS: Navigation Rising Beef Prices and Evolving Blend Trends

When analyzing the majority of October in 2024 and the same period in 2025, the average grinds distribution was lower in 2025 except for 85-89%, 90-94%, and ground sirloin. Despite these few areas of growth, total average distribution fell 11.5% year-over-year. At the same time, non-discounted prices were about 9% higher, and discounted prices were up roughly 8%.

RBI and CPE Announce $350 Million Joint Venture to Expand Burger King in China

Restaurant Brands International (RBI) and CPE, a leading Chinese alternative asset manager, have announced a joint venture to drive the next phase of Burger King’s growth in China.

The partnership aims to expand Burger King’s presence in the Chinese market to 4,000 restaurants by 2035, up from the 1,250 locations currently operating.

Upon completion of the agreement, CPE will invest $350 million in new primary capital to support restaurant expansion, marketing, menu innovation, and...

Expana Publication Schedule For the Veteran’s Day Holiday

Expana will be observing the Veteran’s Day holiday on Tuesday, November 11, which will impact the publication of some Expana Benchmark Prices. All US offices will be closed on the day; daily reports (red meat, poultry, eggs) will not be published, and the following weekly and biweekly reports will be impacted:

Veal, US, will be published on Monday, November 10

Grains and Oilseeds, US, will be published on Monday, November 10

Seafood, US and EU Markets, will be published on Wednesday, November 12...

NCBA Supports Legislation to Expand Local Beef Sales

Today, the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) announced continued support for the Direct Interstate Retail Exemption for Certain Transactions (DIRECT) Act. This legislation introduced by Sens. Roger Marshall (R-KS), Tommy Tuberville (R-AL), and Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-MS) would increase marketing opportunities for smaller meat processors and give consumers more options to buy local beef.

“The cattle business benefits greatly from expanding marketing opportunities, and the DIRECT Act opens the door to the growing number of cattle producers who seek to grow their market across state lines,” said NCBA President and Nebraska cattleman Buck Wehrbein. “The increased market exposure...

Wendy's Sees Strong International Growth Amid US Market Challenges in Q3

Hot off the grill, Wendy's released financial results from its third quarter of its fiscal year, showcasing a strong international performance despite challenges in the US market.

Interim CEO Ken Cook highlighted an 8.6% growth in systemwide sales internationally, bolstered by the addition of 54 new restaurants globally and improved adjusted EBITDA.

"Third quarter results were in line with our expectations, reflecting continued strength in our international business," Cook stated. In the U.S., operational initiatives led to a 4% outperformance in comparable sales at Company-operated...

ANALYSIS: Uruguay’s October Beef Exports Fall 3.2% MOM to 30,506 MT, Up 8.1% YOY

The latest data released by Uruguay’s National Customs Directorate indicates that fresh beef (chilled and frozen) exports fell for the third consecutive month, down another 3.2% month-over-month (MOM) to 30,506 metric tons (MT) in October 2025. This represents an 8.1% increase from the same period last year.
China remained the main destination, but its share of total shipments shrank MOM from 45.6% last month to 42.2%, now totaling 12,887 mt. This figure is 10.3% lower in comparison to September but still reflects a 15.5% growth year-over-year (YOY)...

ANALYSIS: From Decline to Stabilization; US Pork Cutout and Primal Trends Through Late October

Between September 8, 2025 and October 20, 2025 the Expana US pork carcass cutout fell 11.9% and has flatlined since, moving only around 0.1% over the last several weeks, with very small week‑to‑week swings. 

The belly primal led the earlier weakness, plunging roughly 26.6% into Oct 20 before staging a modest recovery of about 7.8% through the most recent close. Bellies remain 14.3% below the comparable week in 2024 but about 7.2% above the three‑year...

NRF Expects Holiday Sales to Surpass $1 Trillion for the First Time in 2025

The National Retail Federation today released its annual holiday forecast, predicting retail sales in November and December will grow between 3.7% and 4.2% over 2024. That translates to total spending between $1.01 trillion and $1.02 trillion. By comparison, last year’s holiday sales rose 4.3% over 2023 to reach $976.1 billion.

“American consumers may be cautious in sentiment, yet remain fundamentally strong and continue to drive U.S. economic activity,” NRF President and CEO Matthew Shay said. “We remain bullish about the holiday shopping season and expect that consumers will continue...

US Foods Serves Up Strong Financial Results; Sales Soar, Profits Rise

US Foods released its financial results for the third quarter, showcasing continued growth and strong business momentum.

During the quarter, total case volume increased 1.1% year over year (YOY), contributing to a 4.8% rise in net sales to $10.2 billion. This growth underscores the company’s solid market presence and steady demand for its products and services.

Gross profit rose 5.2% to $1.8 billion, representing 17.2% of net sales. Net income increased 3.4% to $153 million, while adjusted...

Ranchers Support Steve Pearce's Nomination to Lead BLM

Today, the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) and Public Lands Council (PLC) announced support for President Trump’s nomination of former Congressman Steve Pearce to serve as Director of the Bureau of Land Management (BLM).

“Having represented New Mexico in Congress and the State House for decades, former Rep. Steve Pearce understands the important role that public lands play across the West. Pearce’s experience makes him thoroughly qualified to lead the BLM and tackle the issues federal lands ranchers are facing,” said NCBA Executive Director of Natural Resources and PLC Executive Director Kaitlynn Glover...

ANALYSIS: Australia’s Oct 2025 Beef Exports Flat MOM as Korea Pulls Back

Australia’s beef exports in October 2025 held largely steady month-on-month (MOM) to 139,0285 metric tons (MT), data from the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) showed.

Edging up just 0.2% or 274 mt from September, monthly growth was curbed mainly by lower outbound shipments to Korea as the impact of its safeguard activation took hold. Shipments to the United States (US), China, and Southeast Asia also eased, while Japan logged a solid monthly rebound underpinned by replenishment demand.

On a yearly basis, exports were ...

Hormel Foods Announces Corporate Restructuring to Support Strategic Priorities and Long-Term Growth

Hormel Foods Corporation, a Fortune 500 global branded food company, today announced a corporate restructuring designed to thoughtfully align resources with the organization's strategic priorities, support future growth and strengthen the overall business.

To ensure the company remains efficient and well-positioned for long-term success, Hormel Foods has implemented a voluntary early retirement program for a portion of its non-plant workforce, is closing many open roles and will reduce certain positions across its office-based workforce. These actions are expected to...

QDOBA Honors Franchisee Excellence at Annual Brand Conference

QDOBA, America's rapidly growing #2 restaurant brand in the Mexican fast-casual category, presented awards in 50 categories and recognized three standout franchise partners at its annual Brand Conference:

• Winters Group — Franchise Partner of the Year
• Carmen Reyes-Ibarra, General Manager of Roaring Fork — General Manager of the Year
• Froccaro Group — Operator of the Year

With more than 825 restaurants across the U.S., Canada and Puerto Rico, and nearly 600 new restaurants in development, these awards underscore how the brand's tremendous growth is underpinned by a franchise-first...

The Retail Rundown: Turkey Promotions Climb as Holiday Demand Takes Hold

Turkey ads now make up nearly 4% of protein features this week and are on pace to capture a larger share next week as seasonal demand gathers momentum. Beef holds 23.8% of ad space, pork accounts for 22.8%, and chicken eased to 19%—down one point from last week. Eggs have 3% of this week’s buying opportunities, up one point compared to the week prior.

Within the turkey category, ads for frozen whole birds and fresh or frozen parts are evenly split, each accounting for 28% of turkey features...

USMEF Statement on Progress in Trade Negotiations with China

The White House provided more details Nov. 1 on the measures agreed to in last week’s meeting between President Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping, including progress on agricultural trade barriers imposed by China and suspension of port service fees that raise costs for U.S. exporters. 

U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF) President and CEO Dan Halstrom issued the following statement: 

USMEF is encouraged by the progress being made in trade negotiations with China, and we appreciate the Trump administration’s emphasis on restoring market access for U.S. agricultural exports. If China follows through on its commitment to...