Green Valley Foods Recalls Frozen Meat Pizza Products Due to Misbranding and Undeclared Allergens

Green Valley Foods, a Devils Lake, N.D. establishment, is recalling approximately 4,062 pounds of frozen meat pizza products due to misbranding and undeclared allergens, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today. The product contains soy, a known allergen, which is not declared on the product label.

The frozen meat pizza items were produced from September 20, 2022, through September 20, 2023, and may contain the lot codes 2632 through 2633. The following products are subject to recall...

Cup Noodles Introduces a Noodle Bar Experience

Cup Noodles, the original instant ramen in a cup, is unveiling a Noodle Bar experience that pairs its premium Cup Noodles Stir Fry and Cup Noodles Stir Fry Rice with Noodles product lines with craft beer selections just in time for Oktoberfest. Through a partnership with Advanced Cicerone Mandy Naglich, the brand created a Noodles + Brews Pairing Guide that thoughtfully matches each product flavor with a craft brew style based on the vibrant tasting notes and ingredients found in each cup.

"A Perfect...

Taco John’s Launches One-Of-A-Kind Cheddar Crunch Tacos

Taco John’s is out to prove that the possibilities are endless with a Potato Olés®-inspired shell that only the brand known for bigger. bolder. better. flavors would devise.

Beginning Tuesday, Sept. 12, the popular quick-service restaurant will launch the NEW Beefy Loaded Cheddar Crunch Taco and Chicken Club Cheddar Crunch Taco, featuring a one-of-a-kind crunchy flatbread shell coated in aged cheddar cheese and shredded potatoes dusted with the brand’s signature Potato Olés® seasoning blend. As they say, “Never judge a book by...

White Castle celebrates 5th anniversary of Impossible Slider with special offer for Craver Nation

White Castle, America's beloved fast-food restaurant and CPG brand, is celebrating five years since its trendsetting and groundbreaking introduction of the Impossible Slider in Castles. In 2018, White Castle became the first fast-food hamburger chain and largest restaurant group to partner with Impossible™ Foods when it launched the plant-based Slider in all its restaurants.

The Impossible Slider is served with pickles and onions on White Castle's signature bun and can be customized to customers' desires, with or without cheddar cheese. This hot...

July Pork Exports Continue Above Year-Ago; Slow Month for Beef Exports

Building on a robust first-half performance, July exports of U.S. pork continued to outpace year-ago levels, according to data released by USDA and compiled by USMEF. Beef exports took a step back in July, posting the lowest volume since January, but export value per head of fed slaughter again exceeded $400.

July pork exports totaled 219,014 metric tons (mt), up 5% year-over-year, while export value increased 1% to $628.7 million. Through the first seven months of 2023, pork exports were 13% above...

Live Cattle and Feeder Futures Extend Their Midweek Gains, Hit New Highs

The cattle complex extended its midweek gains on the Chicago Mercantile Exchange Thursday, sending feeder futures to fresh contract highs. 

October live cattle surged to a seven-week ceiling and finished 95 cents higher at $183.65 per cwt. October feeders were up $2.40 to $258.875 per cwt, beating out the previous contract high made early last week...

Corn futures were trading flat to fractionally higher at the closing bell for livestock futures and likely had minimal impact on the feeders' futures action...

Chef Gordon Ramsay Launches Delicious New Frozen Entrée Line, By Chef Ramsay

Internationally renowned, multi-Michelin starred chef, Gordon Ramsay, today announced the launch of his first frozen entrée line, By Chef Ramsay. Created by Gordon Ramsay himself, each recipe is crafted with the Chef’s culinary prowess and true quality ingredients. By Chef Ramsay features eight iconic and delicious recipes, like Ramsay Family Lasagna, Chicken Pot Pie, and Fish & Chips, all available now exclusively at Walmart stores nationwide.

A true turning point for frozen food, By Chef Ramsay was created to bridge the gap between the famous dishes...

Hillshire Brands Company Recalls Smoked Sausage Products for Possible Foreign Matter Contamination

Hillshire Brands Company, a St. Joseph, Mo. establishment, is recalling approximately 15,876 pounds of blended meat and poultry smoked sausage products that may be contaminated with extraneous materials, specifically bone fragments, the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today.

The ready-to-eat blended meat and poultry smoked sausage items were produced on June 14, 2023.  

• 14-oz. cryovac package containing one rope of "HILLSHIRE FARM SMOKED SAUSAGE MADE WITH PORK, TURKEY, BEEF" with lot codes in the form of the establishment number...

Stuffed Quesadillas Make Their Delicious Return at El Pollo Loco

El Pollo Loco, Inc. (“El Pollo Loco” or “Company) (Nasdaq: LOCO), the nation's leading fire-grilled chicken restaurant chain, is announcing the return of fan-favorite Stuffed Quesadillas, now available for a limited time. Stuffed with high-quality authentic ingredients including traditional Oaxaca cheese and El Pollo Loco’s famous fire-grilled chicken, these quesadillas are designed for maximum flavor and cheesiness.

“At El Pollo Loco delivering high-quality dishes featuring our flame grilled chicken and fresh, bold Mexican flavors is what we do best,” said Heather Gardea, Vice President of...

Minerva Foods' Acquisition of Marfrig's Plants to Expand its Capacity by About 44%

Minerva Food’s acquisition of most of Marfrig’s cattle slaughtering and deboning plants in South America will expand its capacity by about 44%, according to the company. Prior to the $1.54 billion deal, which was announced Monday, Minerva Foods could process 29,540 head of cattle per day. 

After Brazilian meatpacker Marfrig sold 16 of its slaughtering plants to its rival Minerva, Minerva's cattle slaughtering and deboning capacity swelled to 42,439 head per day. This will result in an excess of Brazilian real (BRL) 50 billion to the company's current...

ANALYSIS: Inflation, Waning Demand Impacting UK Beef Trade This Summer

Inflation, declining cattle prices and lackluster demand are all key themes that continue to influence the UK beef trade this summer. Boxed beef carcass cutouts have struggled for several weeks as offerings for most items were generally fully adequate while demand remained subdued across retail, foodservice and manufacturing sectors.

Despite increased retail beef promotions across the UK, wholesale markets continued their downward trajectory throughout July and August. Several beef items includ

Cold Storage: End July Combined Meat/Poultry -0.9% on Month, -4.3% on Year

USDA monthly cold storage data released Wednesday afternoon showed combined meat and poultry stocks held in the nation's freezer warehouses at the end of July at 0.9% below the previous month and 4.3% under a year ago.

The combined stocks were down 5.7% from the five-year average of 2.314 billion pounds. Chicken and turkey stocks were up from a year ago. Beef and turkey were higher than the month prior. 

POULTRY

Chicken stocks were reported at 847.6 million pounds, down 1.4% from the previous month and...

Three Brazilian Meat Processing Plants Given Approval to Ship to Dominican Republic

Earlier this month, Brazil’s Minister of Agriculture and Livestock announced that the Dominican Republic has allowed imports of pork and beef produced in Brazil. 

Three Brazilian plants in the states of Acre, Santa Catarina, and Rio Grande do Sul were approved to ship to the Dominican Republic. Additional establishments in Rio Grande do Sul, Santa Catarina, and Paraná are also under consideration, announced Brazil's Ministry of Agriculture on August 9. 

"The Dominican Republic is a market with high demand, which has faced severe challenges with the record of ...

First Watch Gets Spicy With Mike's Hot Honey Fall Menu Collaboration

Move over pumpkin spice, First Watch is reigniting its partnership with Mike's Hot Honey to bring sweet heat to its new seasonally inspired menu, available nationwide* now through October 29. Headlining the fall menu is the Million Dollar Harvest Hash, created in collaboration between the two brands to combine the fan-favorite honey with First Watch's signature Million Dollar Bacon and house-roasted sweet potatoes. This is the leading Daytime Dining restaurant's second time bringing Chef Shane Schaibly and Mike's Hot Honey founder Mike Kurtz together for a custom...

Bob Evans Restaurants Introduces Irresistible Rancher BBQ Braised Beef

Bob Evans Restaurants has announced “There’s A New Flavor in Town” with three unique dishes aimed to satisfy featuring craveable flavor combinations. Rancher BBQ Beef Dinner, Rancher BBQ Beef Mac & Cheese and Rancher BBQ Beef Burger, are made with farm fresh, braised and barbecued beef, ranch dressing and a sweet and smoky BBQ sauce. All three dishes are available system-wide at lunch or dinner. Each is mouthwatering and packed with flavor – a surefire way to turn heads at any dinner table.

Details of each dish include...

Leading Nicaraguan Beef Processors Remain Committed to Cattle Traceability, Responsible Ranching

Amidst recent international media attention, leading Nicaraguan beef processors have reiterated commitments to responsible ranching and traceability.

PATROL, a 2023 documentary, explores claims from communities in Nicaragua stemming from environmental conflict, including illegal cattle ranching on the rainforests of the Indio Maíz Biological Reserve.

Actor Leonardo DiCaprio promoted PATROL on Instagram, sparking conversations among many on the social media platform, questioning if cattle produced on illegally converted lands in Nicaragua could be unwittingly consumed by American households. More than 95% of the beef Nicaragua produces is exported primarily to...

Argentina's Secretary of Agriculture Denies Meat Export Ban Shortly After Announcement 

On Tuesday, Argentina announced a 15-day ban on beef exports in an effort to moderate prices amid surging inflation and a steep devaluation of the peso.

Argentina's central bank devalued its exchange rate by 18% on Monday after outsider candidate Javier Milei won a primary election on  August 13. The country's government is attempting to stop the sharp devaluation from impacting everyday prices for local consumers.

However, shortly after the ban was announced, the Secretary of Agriculture Juan José Bahillo denied the suspension, stating that negotiations are underway with the Ministry of Economy of Argentina...

Outstanding First Half for U.S. Pork Exports; Beef Exports Below Record Pace of 2022

U.S. pork exports concluded an excellent first half with another strong performance in June, according to data released by USDA and compiled by the U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF). While well below the record pace established in 2022, June beef exports topped $900 million in value, pushing first-half export value to nearly $5 billion.

June pork exports totaled 245,964 metric tons (mt), up 12% from a year ago, while export value climbed 6% to $691.4 million. Through the...

E.N.A. Meat Packing Inc. Recalls Frozen, Raw Beef and Lamb Products

E.N.A. Meat Packing Inc., a Paterson, N.J. establishment, is recalling approximately 58,721 pounds of frozen, raw halal beef tripe, beef feet, and lamb tripe products that were produced without the benefit of federal inspection, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today.

The frozen, raw beef tripe, beef feet, and lamb tripe items were produced from January 2023 through August 2023. The following products are subject to recall, regardless of the packed-on date...

Nearly 400 Workers to be Impacted by Tyson's Corydon Plant Closure

Earlier this week, Tyson Foods, Inc., one of the world’s largest food companies, announced that it is closing four of its U.S. chicken plants located in Arkansas, Indiana, and Missouri. The closures are expected to take place in early 2024. 

In a Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification Act (WARN) notice filed with the Indiana Department of Workforce Development on Monday, Tyson said that the closure of its Corydon chicken processing plant will impact about 368 team members.

The workers will be permanently terminated beginning on or about...

Country Archer Provisions Launches New Rosemary Turkey Mini Sticks and Beef Jerky Snack Packs 

Country Archer Provisions, the nation’s number one better-for-you meat snack brand has announced the launch of two new mouthwatering items sure to keep the entire family happy: Rosemary Turkey Mini Sticks and Original Beef Jerky Snack Packs. These perfectly portioned protein snacks offer clean-label ingredients for health-conscious consumers seeking irresistibly flavorful, better-for-you snacking options for themselves and their families.

Just in time for back-to-school, when schedules become crazy again and finding healthy and delicious food for your family...

The Retail Rundown: Most Protein Indices Are Below Last Year

A breakdown of this week's retail buying opportunities shows that seafood features make up about 30% of total protein ad volume this week, while beef claims about 25%. Pork follows with 18.2%, down about two points from the week prior. Chicken features account for 16.1% of total protein ads, compared to 17.5% last year. Boosted by back-to-school buying, egg feature volume more than doubled from the week prior to 7.2%.

For this week's retail rundown, we'll take a look at how the various protein indices are performing in...

Urner Barry’s Market Briefing Provides Key Insights Across the Protein Trade

Urner Barry is the leading provider of protein market news and information in the food industry. Through daily canvasses of the trade and an unrivaled historical database, our analysts are uniquely positioned to report on the underlying conditions and significant disruptors to the market. In this Market Briefing, Urner Barry reporters outline the latest action in the commodity protein markets, highlighting seasonal factors, disruptors, and current supply and demand fundamentals.

Nathan's Famous, Inc. Reports First Quarter Results

Nathan's Famous, Inc. today reported results for its first fiscal quarter ended June 25, 2023.

For the thirteen-week period ended June 25, 2023 (“first quarter fiscal 2024”):

• Revenues were $41,985,000 as compared to $39,720,000 during the thirteen weeks ended June 26, 2022;
• Income from operations was $11,463,000 as compared to $11,780,000 during the thirteen weeks ended June 26, 2022;
• Adjusted EBITDA1, a non-GAAP financial measure, was $12,036,000 as compared to $12,065,000 during the thirteen weeks ended June 26, 2022;
• Income before provision for income...

Livestock Futures Swept Up in Broad Losses Following Fitch Downgrade

Earlier this week, Fitch Ratings downgraded the United States’ Long-Term Foreign-Currency Issuer Default Rating (IDR) to AA+ from AAA. This was the first time the U.S. received a downgrade from one of the three main rating agencies since 2011.

Fitch cited several drivers behind its decision, including “a steady deterioration in standards of governance over the last 20 years, including on fiscal and debt matters, notwithstanding the June bipartisan agreement to suspend the debt limit until January 2025.” The full report can be found here... 

Taco Bell Introduces Grilled Cheese Dipping Taco Featuring New Slow-Braised Shredded Beef

Ready for a new take on Taco Bell tacos? Inspired by the hearty, rich flavors of birria, the new Grilled Cheese Dipping Taco feature slow-braised shredded beef – a brand new protein offering from Taco Bell – with a three-cheese blend melted on the inside and grilled on the outside of a freshly fried daily white corn shell. The taco comes with warm nacho cheese sauce and a savory red sauce for dipping into before every glorious bite. The Grilled Cheese Dipping Taco is the latest addition...

E B Express Provisions Recalls Canned Pork and Beef Bean Stew Products From Brazil

E B Express Provisions, a distributor and importer of record located in Newark, N.J. is recalling approximately 622 pounds of the pork and beef bean stew products that were imported from an establishment in Brazil that is not eligible to export meat products to the United States, U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today.

The following products are subject to recall, regardless of the product date :

More labels here.

• 430g cans containing “Anglo Feijoada Pronta para servir”.
• 430g cans containing “Bordon... 

Cold Storage: End June Combined Meat/Poultry +1.2% on Month, -1.8% on Year

USDA monthly cold storage data released Tuesday showed combined meat and poultry stocks held in the nation's freezer warehouses at the end of June at 2.201 billion pounds, up about 1.2% from the previous month but 1.8% less than a year ago.

Pork and beef were below the previous month while chicken and turkey stocks were larger. Chicken and turkey were above their year-ago figures while pork and beef were smaller. The combined stocks were 2.8% below the five-year average of 2.264 billion pounds...

Cater Your Summertime Gathering with Dickey’s Barbecue Pit

Dickey’s Barbecue Pit is offering barbecue lovers across the country multiple pack options to help beat the heat this summer.

Summertime is the season for picnics, pool parties and family reunions. Therefore, Dickey’s Packs are a great option for your gathering of any size. With a variety of pit-smoked meats and fan favorite sides to choose from, Texas-style barbecue fans can now order the following pack options:

• Family Pack (starting at $61.60) – two choices of meats, three large sides and six slices of Texas toast. Feeds four to six...

U.S. Beef Herd Declines for Fifth Straight Year

The semiannual USDA Cattle Inventory report, released Friday afternoon, indicated that all cattle and calves in the United States as of July 1 totaled 95.9 million head, down 2.7% from a year ago.

The average pre-report estimate in the Urner Barry survey was expecting a 2.3% decline to 96.3 million head.

The 2023 calf crop was estimated at a record low of 33.8 million head, down 2% from 2022. Total cows and heifers that have calved were reported at 38.8 million head, down 2% from 2022 and nearly on target with analysts' expectations... 

Live Cattle Futures Make Fresh Highs Ahead of Key USDA Data

Live cattle futures visited uncharted waters once more on Thursday, hitting fresh highs ahead of key USDA data due out this afternoon. The August contract topped at $182.975 per cwt, $1.80 per cwt above its previous record high achieved last week. 

Ultimately, cattle futures formed outside bearish reversals and closed lower across the board, pressured by profit-taking and overbought signals. Feeder cattle futures also visited higher territory yesterday before finishing weaker, with gains capped by the relentless rise in corn prices amid rising tension between Russia...

Cargill and Partners Announce First Gold Standard-Approved Methane Emissions Reduction Methodology 

Beef producers are leading the way toward the future of sustainable agriculture and hold the ability to mitigate methane emissions that address climate change. To recognize these efforts and enable reduction value to be quantified, Cargill partnered with TREES Consulting to develop a Gold Standard-approved beef methodology that offers the global beef industry a framework for measuring methane emissions reduction using feed supplements that have been incorporated into beef cattle diets, such as SilvAir™*. Gold Standard’s certification process allows climate and sustainable development...

New Retail Opportunities for U.S. Beef in the Philippines

The expansion of membership-based retailing in Southeast Asia has reached the Philippines, creating new opportunities to introduce high-quality U.S. beef to consumers. USMEF partnered with S&R Membership Shopping to promote U.S. beef during the grand opening of its newest outlet in Kawit, 15 miles south of Manila. S&R is the leading membership shopping retailer in the Philippines with 23 outlets nationwide.

Fourteen cuts of U.S. beef were featured, including middle meats and several cuts and items from the chuck and round. In addition to...

Suya Slice LLC, Recalls Ready-to-Eat Beef Products Produced Without Benefit of Inspection

Suya Slice, LLC, a Memphis, Tenn. establishment, is recalling approximately 445 pounds of ready-to-eat beef products that were produced without the benefit of federal inspection, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today.

• 1.5-oz. plastic resealable bag packages of beef jerky containing “Suya Slice Kilishi Beef Jerky” on the label.
• 5-oz. plastic resealable bag packages of marinated skewered beef containing “Suya Slice Suya” on the label.

The products subject to recall do not bear the USDA...

FoodStory Brands and Paramount Consumer Products Bring Paramount's "Yellowstone" to Supermarkets

FoodStory Brands and Paramount Consumer Products today announced a new Yellowstone line of elevated Western cuisine, which brings the hit television series to life in American kitchens. The line embodies the rustic, authentic experience of the Yellowstone universe and includes premium coffee, seasonings and rubs, meat snacks, and Angus beef chili. Breakfast meats, proteins, and beyond are planned for this line's ongoing expansion. Products are now available at Walmart, Kroger, Amazon, H.E.B., and in select Safeway and Albertsons stores with many more retailers to come. Yellowstone cuisine is perfect...

Kevin McAdams Succeeds Randy Day as CEO of Perdue Farms

Perdue Farms announced today that Kevin McAdams, COO and President, will transition to the role of Chief Executive Officer, as part of a planned succession announced in April 2023. McAdams brings 30 years of successful leadership in the food and beverage industry to the vertically integrated food and agriculture company and fourth-largest producer of chicken products in the United States.

Randy Day, who held the CEO position since April 2017, will be staying on as an advisor to Perdue through 2024. “After 43 years with Perdue...

Firehouse Subs Brings Back its Pepperoni Pizza Meatball Sub for $6 When You Order on the App

It's back! Firehouse Subs® is celebrating the return of its guest favorite Pepperoni Pizza Meatball Sub, an epic mashup of pizza flavors all in one, hot and hearty sub. First launched in 2021, the popular limited time menu item features Italian meatballs, marinara, extra provolone, crispy pepperoni, and Italian seasoning on a toasted garlic bread roll.

Firehouse Subs Rewards Members can get a medium Pepperoni Pizza Meatball Sub for just $6* for a limited time when they purchase on...

Summer Savings Alert: Wendy's Announces New BOGO For $1 Deal

WHAT: Calling all cravers & savers! Starting today for a limited time, Wendy's® is squaring up to the summer heat with one of the hottest deals of the season – BOGO for $1. That's right – when fans buy one iconic Dave's Single®, Spicy Chicken sandwich, 10 PC Nuggets or Medium Frosty,® they'll get another one for just $1. * A dollar never tasted so good.

Take a bite out of the BOGO for $1 lineup:

• Dave's Single: A classic burger that doesn't cut corners – a quarter...

May Pork Exports Highest in Two Years; Beef Exports Below Record-Large, Year-Ago Totals

Led by another outstanding month in Mexico and robust demand for variety meat, exports of U.S. pork continued to gain momentum in May, according to data released by USDA and compiled by USMEF. While well below the record-large volume and value posted in May 2022, beef exports improved from April and were the second largest (behind March) of 2023.

May pork exports reached 261,361 metric tons (mt), up 16% from a year ago, the ninth largest on record and the largest since May 2021...

Japanese Buyers Visit Wisconsin to Learn about U.S. Dairy Cattle and Beef Quality

As sales recover slowly from the pandemic in Japan’s foodservice sector, buyers are seeking new ideas to cap rising input costs. A key strategy for USMEF this year is to present economical options to buyers, such as underutilized cuts of beef and in some cases, beef from dairy cattle. Japan abolished the cattle age limit for imported beef in 2019, which opened the door to importing beef from dairy cattle.

USMEF’s Tokyo office led a team of foodservice buyers to Wisconsin last...

The Retail Rundown: Navigating the Summer Doldrums

With July 4th behind us, the summer doldrums are beginning to settle in and major retail buying opportunities remain scarce until Labor Day. During this period, grocers will attempt to encourage protein sales with attractive promotions as summer grilling and other activities remain in play. 

Beef saw robust protein feature volume throughout June and remains at the forefront of ad space with 27.3% of retail buying opportunities this week. Steaks currently take up about 65.4% of beef's feature volume, followed by ground beef with 18.2%. London Broil and roasts follow, each with about... 

U.S. Red Meat Industry Makes Presence Known at SIAL China

An eye-catching location and expanded pavilion with spacious public reception areas, private meeting spaces, meat sample displays and a separate cooking area for product tastings were among the pieces in place to ensure a prominent presence for the U.S. red meat industry at SIAL China in Shanghai. Twelve members joined the USMEF Pavilion at the show, which hosted 175,527 attendees from 67 countries during the three-day event.

These elements were part of a blueprint designed to tout grain-fed U.S. beef and pork as top quality and show...

Perdue Premium Meat Company, Inc. Recalls Brookside Brand Fully Cooked Beef Wiener Products

Perdue Premium Meat Company, Inc., doing business as Alexander & Hornung, a Saint Clair Shores, Mich., establishment, is recalling approximately 3,204 pounds of fully cooked beef wiener products due to misbranding and undeclared allergens, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today. The product may actually contain smoked sausage, which contains milk, a known allergen, which is not declared on the wiener product label.

• 2-lbs. vacuum-sealed packages labeled “BROOKSIDE BRAND FULLY COOKED NATURAL CASING BEEF WIENERS” with the...

Panamerican Foods, LLC Recalls Ineligible Pork and Beef Bean Stew Products Imported from Brazil

Panamerican Foods, LLC, a distributor and importer of record located in Kearny, N.J., is recalling approximately 4,978 pounds of the pork and beef bean stew products that were imported from an establishment in Brazil that is not eligible to export meat products to the United States, U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today.

• 430g cans containing “Anglo Feijoada Pronta para servir”.
• 430g cans containing “Bordon Feijoada PRONTO PARA SERVIR”.

The products subject to recall bear establishment number “76 S.I.F.” on the...

Denny's Unlocks Unprecedented Value with Launch of Gamified Rewards Program

Denny's , America's Diner, has launched its revamped Denny's Rewards program, providing guests valuable monthly offers and introducing personalized challenges that unlock never-before-seen rewards. Once members join at Dennys.com or with the Denny's App, their digital wallet will hold offers, fun challenges, and keep track of rewards so they can easily redeem them for the Denny's flavors they crave.

"Denny's provides an incredible bang for your buck, and now our rewards challenges take value to a whole new level," said John Dillon, Denny's President. "At a time when...

NCBA Files Legal Motion to Strike Down Biden WOTUS Rule

Last night, the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) and litigation partners filed a motion in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Texas asking the court to strike down the Biden administration’s Waters of the U.S. (WOTUS) rule in light of the Supreme Court’s decision in Sackett v. EPA.

“In Sackett v. EPA, the Supreme Court unanimously ruled that the EPA had overstepped its authority under the Clean Water Act,” said NCBA Chief Counsel Mary-Thomas Hart. “A full rewrite of the Biden administration’s WOTUS definition is the...

The Retail Rundown: Which Proteins Dominate Holiday Features?

Leading up to the Fourth of July holiday, seafood and pork feature volume dominate retail buying opportunities. Seafood features account for 28.5% of total protein features while pork comes in with 26.7%. Beef falls to third with 25.3%, followed by chicken with 17.1%.

According to the National Retail Federation's annual Independence Day survey, 87% of consumers plan to celebrate the Fourth of July this year and spend an average of $93.34 on food items. Total spending is expected to reach a record $9.5 billion, up from $7.7 billion in 2022. Of those celebrating, 65%...

The Habit Burger Grill Partners with HMSHost On New Restaurant Opening 

The Habit Burger Grill, the California, USA-based restaurant company renowned for its award-winning Charburgers grilled over an open flame, signature sandwiches, fresh salads, and more, announced the grand opening of their newest international restaurant in Chongqing, the fourth largest city in China, on Sunday, June 25, 2023. The restaurant is located at Terminal 3 in Chongqing Jiangbei International Airport.

“It is an honor to partner with HMSHost, a global leader in dining with an impressive track record in China. We are excited to open this flagship location...

Taco Bell Turns up the Heat with Paris Hilton and the Fan Favorite Return of the Volcano Menu

Taco Bell is coming in HOT with nostalgia for the return of the 2000s fan favorite Volcano Menu. To spice things up, Taco Bell is partnering with the queen of heat, Paris Hilton for a themed advice line: that's hot. As promised, the fan-favorite Volcano Menu returns nationwide on June 29 and even earlier for Taco Bell Rewards members with exclusive early access on June 27.

To bring back a trio of options so hot and so Y2K...

U.S. Beef Sustainability, Alternative Cuts Highlighted at Consumer Festival in Taiwan

U.S. beef held a featured role at the 2023 Vogue Picnic in Taipei, one of Taiwan’s largest outdoor events. The festival attracted an estimated 30,000, mostly young consumers. Sustainability, an issue of increasing importance among younger demographics in Taiwan, was a central message for the U.S. beef industry. Sustainability facts and information about U.S. production practices were shared with consumers and media at both industry booths and during presentations, cooking demonstrations, product samplings and interactive games.

Erich Kuss, chief of the Agricultural Section at the American Institute in Taiwan...

Smashburger Introduces Slow Smoked Pork Burnt Ends Burger to Menu

To celebrate the official start of summer, Smashburger®, the better-burger fast casual restaurant, has introduced a new limited-time dish, the Carolina BBQ Burnt Ends Burger. Authentically inspired by the regional flavors of South Carolina's gold mustard-based BBQ sauce and Kansas City style burnt ends, the Carolina BBQ Burnt Ends Burger is a delicious take on the classic summer dish BBQ fans know and love, burnt ends, and is available starting today until August 29th at Smashburger locations nationwide.

"At Smashburger, we're proud of our unwavering commitment...

Stryve Foods, Inc. Announces Strategic Partnership with 829 Studios

Stryve Foods, Inc., an emerging healthy snack and eating platform disrupting traditional consumer packaged goods (CPG) categories, and a leader in the air-dried meat snack industry in the United States, announces its strategic partnership with 829 Studios, a renowned creative agency based in Boston, MA. This collaboration represents an exciting opportunity for Stryve Foods to elevate its brand presence and engage more deeply with consumers.

“We are thrilled to embark on this partnership with 829 Studios as we take our brand to new heights,” said Chris Boever, Chief Executive...

Pre-Report Estimates for May Cold Storage Show Total Stocks 1.7% Below Year Ago

USDA will release its monthly cold storage report at 3 p.m. Eastern time Friday. Bob Brown, a private analyst from Edmond, Oklahoma, provided his insight on what the upcoming report might show.

Frozen total meat and poultry stocks as of May 31^st are projected to be down 2.2% from the previous month. Overall supplies remain below year-ago levels. Brown predicts total meat and poultry stocks to be about 2.163 billion pounds.

Beef, pork, and chicken stocks are expected to be down versus the previous month...

Price Relief Coming at the Drive-Through

It takes a lot to get between Americans and fattening food, but everyone has their limits.

Quick serve has been the most successful restaurant category since the pandemic hit, initially because of its ability to provide socially distanced meals and then because of a lower price point as inflation squeezed household budgets. Some upper-middle-class diners have even defected from sit-down to fast-casual eateries like Chipotle or all the way to traditional fast food. But keeping profitability high has required a delicate dance of efficiency gains and...

Freddy's Launches New Pretzel Bacon BBQ Steakburger

Fast-casual restaurant concept, Freddy's Frozen Custard & Steakburgers®, announced today the launch of its new Pretzel Bacon BBQ Steakburger, Key Lime Pie Concrete and Very Berry Strawberry Shake. The limited-time offers are available to order starting June 21 through August 29 at participating Freddy's locations nationwide via drive-thru, in-restaurant dining, and pickup or delivery through the Freddy's mobile app and at https://freddys.com.

The cooked-to-order Pretzel Bacon BBQ Steakburger is made with two steakburger patties with melted American cheese, crispy bacon, sliced... 

Cattle Complex Slips at Midweek While Hogs Rally on Firmer Cash

The cattle complex on the Chicago Mercantile Exchange tumbled at midweek, sending August live cattle sliding to a nearly two-week floor. Feeder futures led the declines, with losses for the August through November contracts ranging from $4.05 to $4.55 per cwt despite weaker corn prices at the closing bell for livestock futures.

Grain futures are up sharply so far Thursday as traders monitor dry conditions in the nation's major crop-producing regions. Corn futures are up by about 9 to 10 cents and soybeans are showing...

USDA Launches Effort to Strengthen Substantiation of Animal-Raising Claims

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced today that it is implementing a multi-step effort aimed at strengthening the substantiation of animal-raising claims. This action builds on the significant work USDA has already undertaken to protect consumers from false and misleading labels and to implement President Biden’s Executive Order on Promoting Competition in the American economy.

“Consumers should be able to trust that the label claims they see on products bearing the USDA mark of inspection are truthful and accurate,” said Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack. “USDA is taking... 

Darden Restaurants Completes Acquisition of Ruth's Hospitality Group

Darden Restaurants, Inc., announced today that it has completed its acquisition of Ruth's Hospitality Group, Inc. ("Ruth's"). The Ruth's Chris Steak House brand now joins and complements Darden's portfolio of differentiated brands that include Olive Garden, LongHorn Steakhouse, Yard House, Cheddar's Scratch Kitchen, The Capital Grille, Seasons 52, Eddie V's and Bahama Breeze.

Ruth's Chris features signature USDA Prime steaks served sizzling on 500-degree plates, New Orleans-inspired sides and an award-winning wine list. Ruth's Chris has 155 locations around the globe, including 81 company-owned or company-operated restaurants...

Walmart to Invest $257 Million in Beef-Packing Plant in Kansas

Walmart said on Tuesday it would invest $257 million to open a beef-packing plant in Olathe, Kansas in 2025, which would create more than 600 jobs.

The facility will package and distribute cuts of the higher grade Angus beef from Sustainable Beef LLC. Walmart had acquired a minority stake in the ranch-based beef processing plant last year, which is expected to be functional in late-2024.

The company's investment plans come at a time when...

Smashburger Accelerates Expansion in Utah with Multi-Unit Development Agreement

Smashburger, the leading fast-casual restaurant chain renowned for its hand-smashed to order burgers, announced today the signing of a multi-unit development agreement to further expand its footprint in Utah, bringing five new locations to Salt Lake City. Leading the brand's expansion in the market is multi-unit franchisee Michael Walker of Zuvachs, LLC., who acquired two existing Smashburger locations in Salt Lake City through the deal. The announcement builds on the growth momentum that Smashburger has achieved since the beginning of the year, adding 26 locations to...

BurgerFi International Inc. Announces Chris Jones as CFO

BurgerFi International Inc., owner of leading fast-casual brand BurgerFi and the casual dining pizza brand Anthony’s Coal Fired Pizza & Wings, is announcing a change in senior leadership as Christopher Jones will be joining as Chief Financial Officer on July 10, 2023. Mr. Jones is replacing the current Chief Financial Officer Mike Rabinovitch, who is transitioning to Lionheart Capital as a Senior Advisor. Lionheart Capital along with its founder and the Company’s Executive Chairman Ophir Sternberg, is the Company’s largest shareholder. Mr. Rabinovitch will remain in his role as company Chief Financial... 

J.T.M. Provisions Company Recalls Ready-To-Eat Homestyle Chili Topping Product 

J.T.M. Provisions Company, a Harrison, Ohio establishment, is recalling approximately 200 pounds of ready-to-eat (RTE) chili topping product due to misbranding and an undeclared allergen, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today. The product labeled as chili topping may actually contain beef taco filling, which contains soy, a known allergen, that is not declared on the product label.

The frozen, RTE Homestyle Chili Topping packages, which may actually contain beef taco filling, were produced March 14, 2023, and packed inside cases...

Broad-Based Growth for April Pork Exports; Beef Exports Trend Lower

April exports of U.S. pork achieved gains in a wide range of markets, according to data released by USDA and compiled by USMEF, while beef exports were below the very large totals posted a year ago.

Propelled by another month of widespread growth, April pork exports totaled 243,789 metric tons (mt), up 15% from a year ago, while value increased 10% to $660.1 million. For January through April, pork exports climbed 14% to 960,480 mt, valued at $2.62 billion (up 13%)...

Live Cattle and Feeder Futures Snap Streak of Higher Closes

After scoring fresh contract highs again at midweek, live cattle futures finished sharply lower Wednesday, snapping their nine-day streak of firmer closes. 

The June live cattle contract closed 82.5 cents lower at $179.00 per cwt but remains overbought. The deferred contracts formed outside bearish reversals. 

Feeder futures also scored new highs yesterday before nosediving, sending most actively traded August to a nearly one-week floor. The front-month finished $4.15 lower at $239.10 per cwt while September was down $4.25 to $242.275 per cwt...

Aussie Beef Mates Delegation Boosts International Appetite for Australian Beef

The eyes of the world are on Australian beef, as international chefs converged on Sydney and regional NSW as part of the Aussie Beef Mates delegation.

Organised by Meat & Livestock Australia (MLA) in collaboration with Investment NSW, the Aussie Beef Mates delegation ran from May 28 to June 2, with the international visitors being immersed in all things beef from the paddock to the plate.

The program ran for the first time this year. During this visit, 16 chefs and food professionals visited NSW from countries including China...

J.T.M. Provisions Company Recalls Frozen Beef Chili Products Due To Possible Contamination

J.T.M. Provisions Company, a Harrison, Ohio establishment, is recalling approximately 22,530 pounds of frozen, ready-to-eat beef chili with beans products that may be contaminated with extraneous materials, specifically white plastic, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today.

The frozen, ready-to-eat beef chili with beans items were produced on February 27, 2023. The following products are subject to recall:

- 30-lb. case of “CHILI WITH BEANS” containing six 5-lb. boilable bags of “CP5309 CHILI WITH BEANS” with...

ANALYSIS: Cash Cattle Market Kicks Off New Month With Fresh Record Highs

This week’s cash cattle trade started off with a bang on Thursday as prices advanced by as much as $9 per cwt from the week prior. Negotiated prices in the South reached $180 per cwt, a new high for the year as well as a record high level for the Texas/Oklahoma region.  

In the North, live prices achieved $188 per cwt, also a fresh record high. Dressed sales climbed to $292.50 per cwt in Nebraska, approaching the all-time record of $298...

Bubba Burger Introduces the Angus Swiss Burger

Grilling season may never be the same again now that BUBBA burger®, the nation’s most popular frozen burger company, has announced the arrival of its newest delicious mealtime solution, the Angus Swiss BUBBA burger®.

Made from 100% USDA Angus beef chuck and creamy Swiss cheese, the newly launched burger builds on BUBBA burger’s reputation as the country’s most popular go-to solution for families looking for meal options that are customizable, easy, and oh-so convenient. And, just like BUBBA burger’s other signature frozen burger offerings...

USMEF Conference Details Farm Bill Challenges, Examines Importance of U.S.-Mexico Trade Relations

The U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF) Spring Conference concluded Friday in Minneapolis with insights from former House Agriculture Committee Chairman Collin Peterson on how to make international trade a higher priority in the next Farm Bill.

Peterson, who oversaw the development of four Farm Bills during his 30 years in Congress, said trade has too often taken a back seat in Farm Bill debate and messaging.
“For those of you that have members of Congress in your area who are on the Ag Committee, start...

USMEF Conference Examines Industry Challenges, Opportunities for U.S. Market Share Gains

The USMEF Spring Conference got underway May 24 in Minneapolis, with USMEF senior staff updating members on industry efforts to expand the international footprint for U.S. red meat and bolster demand for underutilized pork, beef and lamb cuts.

Minnesota Agriculture Commissioner Thom Petersen welcomed a strong turnout of producers, exporters, packers, processors and traders from across the nation, praising their collaborative efforts to advance U.S. agriculture by building global demand.

“I really wasn’t a ‘feed-the-world’ type of person when I started as commissioner,” Petersen said. “But as...

Red Robin Gourmet Burgers, Inc. Reports Results for the Fiscal First Quarter Ended April 16, 2023

Red Robin Gourmet Burgers, Inc. a full-service restaurant chain serving an innovative selection of high-quality gourmet burgers in a family-friendly atmosphere, today reported financial results for the fiscal first quarter ended April 16, 2023.

Highlights for the First Quarter of Fiscal 2023, Compared to the First Quarter of Fiscal 2022:

• Total revenues are $418.0 million, an increase of $22.4 million compared to 2022.
   -Comparable restaurant revenue(1) increased 8.6%.
   -Ninth consecutive quarter of positive comparable restaurant revenue(1) growth...

Meat Institute Partners with IT-ISAC to Improve Cybersecurity with New Food & Ag ISAC

The North American Meat Institute today announced a new partnership with the Information Technology-Information Sharing and Analysis Center (IT-ISAC) on the launch of a Food and Agriculture ISAC to enhance cybersecurity for the meat and poultry industry.

“We are grateful for the leadership of several of our members who helped found the Food and Agriculture ISAC to better prepare the industry to fight against the increasing threat of cyber attacks on our nation’s critical food infrastructure,” said... 

ANALYSIS: Beef 50s Maintain Huge Premium Over Pork 42s

Throughout most of this year so far, fresh beef 50s have maintained a huge premium over fresh pork 42s. As of Monday afternoon, Urner Barry's fresh beef 50s quotation was $1.86 per pound, compared to 50 cents per pound for fresh pork 42s. 

In 2023 so far, beef 50s have advanced by nearly 92% and eclipsed $2 per pound earlier this month. Over the same period, pork 42s lost about 13%. From a historical standpoint, beef 50s currently reside at near seasonal all-time highs, second only to 2017...

Protein PACT Academic Advisory Council Launched 

The North American Meat Institute today announced the launch of the Protein PACT Academic Advisory Council, formed to advise on research priorities and the latest evidence related to meat production and consumption.

The seven members of the advisory council are renowned independent researchers from the United States’ top universities, with expertise encompassing environmental sustainability, human nutrition and development, combating hunger, and more.

Advisory Council members are:

• Dr. Adegbola Adesogan, University of Florida . Dr. Adesogan’s research focuses on sustainably increasing animal-source food production and consumption, particularly with a focus on the role of animal...

Kindness Takes the Lead: Sonny's BBQ Appoints Tara Boyle as Chief Kindness Officer

Sonny's BBQ, the industry-leading BBQ restaurant rooted in quality food and spreading kindness, today announced Tara Boyle as Chief Kindness Officer (CKO). Boyle will step into the role as the brand's second CKO, following the three-year tenure of Kennon Adkinson. As CKO, Boyle will support the evolution of initiatives under 'Q The Kindness, oversee the brand's Kindness Crew and develop monthly activities to reach Sonny's communities.

"Today's announcement marks a major milestone in our commitment to kindness and the endless potential of doing more in...

Tyson Foods Completes Acquisition of Williams Sausage Company

Today, Tyson Foods, Inc. completed the previously announced acquisition of Williams Sausage Company, Inc. of Union City, Tenn., furthering the company’s strategy to increase its capacity and product portfolio. To ensure the continuity of business operations, Emily Billingsley, Roger Williams’ daughter, will be responsible for the company’s operations.

“This acquisition aligns with our strategy to win with customers, augments our manufacturing capabilities, and expands our product portfolio,” said Stewart Glendinning, group president, Prepared Foods for Tyson Foods. “Williams Sausage Company brings real strengths in its brand, facilities, and direct store delivery network...

USDA APHIS Confirms Atypical BSE Case in Beef Cow at South Carolina Plant

The USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) confirmed an atypical case of bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE), or mad cow disease, in a beef cow at a slaughter plant in South Carolina.

The beef cow was about five years or older and was tested as part of APHIS’s routine surveillance of cattle that are unsuitable for slaughter. The animal did not enter slaughter channels or present any risk to the food supply chain or to human health, said the USDA.

This is the country’s 7th...

New Opportunities Developing for U.S. Beef in China’s Foodservice Sector

China’s economy is off to a good start in 2023 as consumer spending rallies from extended pandemic restrictions. Foodservice is rebounding and importers are working aggressively with its restaurant customers to meet changing demand from consumers. The pursuit of fresh ideas is creating new opportunities for high-quality, grain-fed U.S. beef in a sector that is accustomed to lean, grass-fed beef from South America.

USMEF partnered with a key importer to conduct training on specific U.S. beef cuts for one of its customers, a hot pot chain with... 

Wendy's Partners with Pipedream to Pilot Industry-First Underground Delivery System for Mobile Orders

The Wendy's Company today announced a new partnership with Pipedream, a hyperlogistics company, to pilot its underground autonomous robot system with the goal of delivering digital food orders from the kitchen to designated parking spots in seconds, for faster and more convenient pick-up experiences. As the first quick service restaurant (QSR) to pilot this cutting-edge technology, the partnership marks another bold step for Wendy's in driving industry innovation as it strives to serve digital-forward customers with greater ease, speed and accuracy.

"We know... 

Hormel Foods to Showcase Brands, Innovation and Showstopping Menu Items at National Restaurant Show

Attending the prestigious National Restaurant Association Show has long been a tradition of Hormel Foods Corporation (NYSE: HRL), an annual opportunity for the Fortune 500 global-branded food company to highlight its extensive product offerings to foodservice operators from around the country. This year's show takes place May 20-23 at McCormick Place in Chicago and will feature more than 2,100 exhibits hosted by hundreds of U.S. manufacturers and suppliers. But none of those exhibits promises to be as eye popping as what Hormel Foods is...

Jack in the Box Inc. Reports Second Quarter 2023 Earnings

Jack in the Box Inc. financial results for the Jack in the Box and Del Taco segments in the second quarter, ended April 16, 2023.

"The momentum in our business continued throughout the second quarter, reflected in outstanding sales, positive net unit growth, improved margin performance and the signing of a development agreement for expansion into Mexico," said Darin Harris, Jack in the Box Chief Executive Officer. "Over the last year we have been focused on the execution of our strategy, and the results are beginning to show. We look...