What Trump Tariffs Mean for Food and Agriculture Trade

US President Donald Trump announced a 25% tariff on imports from Canada and Mexico and an additional 10% tariff on imports from China.

Tariffs for Canada and China are in effect as of February 4, while the tariffs on Mexico have been delayed for one month following negotiations with Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum, who agreed to send 10,000 members of her country’s national guard to the border to address drug trafficking... 

ANALYSIS: Uruguay’s Fresh Beef Exports Saw a 10.5% Monthly Increase in February

Uruguay’s fresh beef exports rose 10.5% in February to 34,815 mt, according to the latest report released by the National Customs Directorate. Compared to the same period last year, this figure represents 9.9% growth.

China remained the top destination with 12,306 MT, representing a 3.3% decline from January and a sharp 20.1% Y-o-Y drop. This decline resulted in a contraction in China's share of Uruguay’s total fresh beef exports from 48.6% in February 2024 to 35.3% in February 2025, reflecting a weaker demand...

HPAI H5N1 Virus in Dairy Cattle – What We Know

In March 2024, Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) A (H5N1), commonly referred to as bird flu, was confirmed in domestic U.S. livestock for the first time in a dairy operation in Texas. Since then, the virus has spread to 985 dairy operations across 17 states, raising widespread uncertainty throughout the dairy and livestock markets. Industry participants have raised concerns about the outbreak's potential impact on consumer perception and demand for dairy and meat products, though government agencies reiterate that the national food supply remains safe. Expana is closely monitoring the situation...

ANALYSIS: Australia’s Beef Sector on Alert Amid US Tariff Uncertainty

As the United States (US) intensifies its "America First" trade policies, Australia’s beef industry is on high alert. Following the imposition of a 25% tariff on imported aluminum and steel, including from Australia, the industry is now bracing for potential inclusion in the next round of tariffs. With the Australian government's request for an exemption rejected, all eyes are on whether beef will be caught in the crossfire.

The US was Australia’s largest beef export destination in 2024, accounting for more than a quarter of total exports at 26.4%... 

ANALYSIS: China's Meat Imports Dip 0.2% YoY in Jan-Feb

China’s combined total meat imports for the month of January and February 2025, including variety meats totaled 1,098,190 metric tons (mt), slipping 0.2% year-on-year (YoY), according to the latest preliminary data from the General Administration of Customs of the People's Republic of China.

The monthly average worked out to be 549,095 mt, edging down 1,363 mt (0.2%) compared to the same period last year. The General Administration of Customs typically releases a combined figure for the first two months of the year...

The Retail Rundown: Grocers Leverage Seasonal Trends; Inflation Update

As temperatures rise across much of the US, grocers are highlighting seasonal offerings for springtime occasions and grilling essentials.

Retailers are refining their marketing strategies to align with shifting demand, appealing to sports fans to boost traffic in the meat department. However, securing lower year-over-year protein prices remains a challenge, as factors like animal disease continue to affect availability across key categories.

The wholesale chicken market is gaining traction with baseball season on the horizon, driving demand for boneless items. Expana reports that buyers are scrambling to secure supply...

ANALYSIS: Brazilian Fresh Beef Exports Saw a 5.5% Monthly Growth in February, Up by 6.7% Y-o-Y

The latest data released by Brazil’s Ministry of Development, Industry, Trade, and Services, showed that February’s fresh beef exports (chilled or frozen) stood at 190,453 mt, up by 5.5% M-o-M and accounting for a 6.7% growth from the same period last year.

China remained the main destination for the Brazilian beef, absorbing 92,569 mt last month, growing slightly by 1.5% from January 2025, but still down by 3.6% Y-o-Y. This figure represented 48.6% of total...

General Mills Enters Growing Ramen Space with Latest Launch

Instant ramen noodles have long been a pantry staple in kitchens across the country. Recently, it has exploded on TikTok, with over 174 million posts showcasing creative recipes and new twists on the classic dish.

The enduring popularity of ramen is no surprise since it's affordable, comforting, and convenient, while still offering plenty of room for culinary creativity.

The internet buzzed in January when news broke that General Mills would be entering the instant ramen market.

Next month, the company will...

Brands Are Adapting to Consumer Shifts with Bold Flavors, Bigger Appeal

As consumers tighten their budgets and shift toward more meals at home, industry leaders are finding innovative ways to attract spenders. Some brands have focused on expanding their ToGo options, while others have embraced the rising popularity of spicy combinations.

Applebee’s® Enhances ToGo Offerings

Applebee’s is stepping up its ToGo game with a limited-time offer: 50-cent Boneless Wings, available when ordered between March 18–21 via the Applebee’s mobile app or online at Applebees.com.

Voted America’s favorite in a nationwide double-blind taste test...

PRE® Expands Ground Beef Offering to New Kroger Banner Stores in March

Pre® Brands, one of the nation's leading grass-fed and grass-finished premium lean beef proteins have announced the expanded availability of its ground beef products at select Kroger stores in several divisions across the US.

"At Pre, we have dual goals of growing the retailer partner category sales and an unconditional commitment to delighting consumers. With consumers increasingly focused on their health and wellness, they're seeking versatile and delicious grocery options to support their lifestyles," said Nicole Schumacher, Chief Marketing Officer...

ANALYSIS: Australia’s Feb 2025 Beef Exports Soar 45% MoM to 117,502 mt

Australia’s beef exports in February 2025 soared by 45.0% month-on-month (MoM) to reach 117,502 metric tons (mt), according to data from the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Forestry (DAFF).

This 36,453 mt jump aligned with historical trends, as shipments typically rise following the shorter January working month. The growth was supported by strong demand from key markets including the United States (US), China, Japan, and Korea. Despite this, shipments headed to Southeast Asia saw a decline, limiting further growth.

On an annual basis...

Impact of Pork and Beef Exports on Corn and Soybean Industries a Bright Spot for Producers

In the wake of a challenging year for U.S. corn and soybean producers, an updated study shows how exports of pork and beef provide support to their bottom lines. In 2024, U.S. pork and beef exports of $19.1 billion – an increase of $1 billion over 2023 and down just 2% from the 2022 record – had a significant impact on the corn and soybean industries, according to an independent study conducted by the Juday Group and released by...

ANALYSIS: Mexico - Brazil Beef Trading Patterns

Mexico's beef import patterns have changed significantly since the implementation of the Package Against Inflation and High Costs (PACIC). The program, renewed in November 2024 under President Claudia Sheinbaum's administration, continues to influence trade flows in Mexico's meat sector.

Brazilian beef shipments to Mexico have grown steadily, moving from a small market share to becoming the second-largest supplier in 2024. What started as modest volumes in late 2023 has developed into a substantial trade flow, reflecting Brazil's rapid emergence in the Mexican market...

ADM Recalls Some Pelleted Cattle Feed

ADM Animal Nutrition is recalling certain pelleted animal feed products due to harmful levels of copper or zinc, which could lead to various health issues in cattle.

These products were distributed between January 16 and February 27, 2025, and were available for purchase in Illinois, Missouri, Tennessee, Iowa, Georgia, and Ohio.

All products included in this recall, except for GROFAST32 (which contained inaccurately labeled levels of zinc), had elevated levels of copper.

The recall was initiated after the issue was identified and confirmed during routine production...

The Retail Rundown: Key Buying Occasions on the Horizon 

March presents key retail buying opportunities as spring holidays approach and Lent influences shopping and dining habits.

With Lent beginning today, meat sales typically decline as participants shift toward seafood. This week, seafood promotions rose to 28% of total retail features, up from 26% last week. Currently, 31% of seafood ads highlight fresh or frozen fillets, with options like salmon, cod, and catfish averaging $9.30 per pound on discount—nearly 9% higher than a year ago.

Elsewhere in the retail landscape, beef and pork each account for nearly 25% of featured promotions...

Armanino Foods Reports Strong Q4 and Fiscal Year Growth

Armanino Foods of Distinction is celebrating its third consecutive quarter of record financial results.

The company is known for making frozen Italian specialty foods like sauces, pestos, and filled pastas that are manufactured for the foodservice, retail, and industrial markets.

For the quarter, net sales increased by 15%, reaching $18.5 million, compared to $16.1 million in the same period of 2023. For the fiscal year 2024, net sales grew by 9%, totaling $69.4 million, up from $63.6 million in 2023...

Subway Brings Back a Tasty Offer: Get Any Footlong For $6.99

Subway® continues to serve up serious value with the return of the $6.99 any footlong promotion, perfect for fans hungry for affordability, quality and convenience. Starting February 28, guests can order any footlong sub on Subway’s menu for just $6.99* by using promo code 699FL on the Subway app or Subway.com.

Budget-conscious consumers can choose from any chef-crafted sandwich or build their own custom creation using Subway’s pantry of high-quality ingredients, including crisp vegetables, freshly sliced meats...

ANALYSIS: Volume of Boneless Beef Hits 12-Month High in Latest USDA Cold Storage Report

According to the latest Cold Storage report from the United States Department of Agriculture, the total amount of beef in cold storage for the month of January was 463.3M lbs. Boneless beef accounted for 424.4M lbs (92% of total) while beef cuts made up the other 38.9M lbs. Both the figures for the total amount of beef and boneless beef equate to a 12-month high.

Cold storage is an important aspect for the imported boneless beef complex...

ANALYSIS: Sluggish Start to 2025 Japan’s Beef Imports

Japan’s total beef imports in January 2025 slumped 17.0% month-on-month (m-o-m) to 32,576 metric tons (mt), according to the latest data from Japan’s Trade Statistics.

Marking the lowest levels since February 2024, monthly inbound tonnage dropped 6,651 mt on the back of lower volumes from Australia and the United States (US), while increased shipments from New Zealand helped mitigate further declines.

Annually, January 2025’s beef imports into Japan plunged 24.7% (-10,682 mt), reflecting ongoing challenges faced by the world’s third-largest economy...

Raising the Steaks: Burger King® Introduces Bold New Steakhouse Bacon Whopper® Inspired by Guests

Burger King has long been known by fans as the one place to truly “Have It Your Way” - whether that means holding the pickles, adding extra cheese, or inspiring the next great Whopper creation. Last year, for the first time ever, Burger King encouraged Guests to create their own version of the Whopper through the Million Dollar Whopper Contest, which culminated with the launch of three new and delicious Guest-created Whopper sandwiches in restaurants nationwide. And now, BK fans are asking for more. That’s why starting March 6, Burger King is introducing The Steakhouse Bacon Whopper, the latest Whopper innovation inspired by Guests’ requests.

Tyson Foods Strengthens Executive Team with Key Promotions in Poultry and Prepared Foods

Tyson Foods has announced two key executive promotions.

Devin Cole has been appointed Group President of Poultry, succeeding Wes Morris, who will retire next year.

Additionally, Brady Stewart’s responsibilities have been expanded to include oversight of the company’s Prepared Foods segment, in addition to his current roles as Group President of Beef, Pork, and Chief Supply Chain Officer.

Both executives will report directly to Donnie King, President and CEO of Tyson Foods. King stated that these promotions are designed to further the company’s...

ANALYSIS: New Zealand’s Jan 2025 Beef Exports Up 6.3% Y-o-Y on Solid US Demand

New Zealand’s January 2025 beef exports dropped 20.3% month-on-month (m-o-m) to 40,002 metric tons (mt), as shown in the latest Stats NZ data. 

Falling by 10,161 mt, volumes were curtailed primarily due to the shorter working month as the country observed the Christmas and New Year festivities. Outbound shipments declined across all key markets. Annually, exports grew 6.3% (+2,369 mt), fueled by healthy demand from the US and Canada. However, shipme

The Retail Rundown: Seafood Rides the Lenten Wave

With March just around the corner, the first signs of spring and warmer days are emerging—welcome news for both consumers and grocers.

Seafood leads this week's protein advertisements, accounting for 26% of total features, closely followed by beef and chicken at 23% each. Pork ads make up 22%, while turkey holds a 3.5% share. Egg promotions remain scarce, extending a two-week trend.

In the seafood complex, fillet promotions are ramping up ahead of the Lenten season, now making up 33.5% of the category’s volume. Ads for both raw and cooked...

ANALYSIS: Robust Start for Korea’s Jan 2025 Beef Imports, Annual Decline Persists

Korea’s beef imports in January 2025 totaled 62,353 metric tons (mt), jumping a whopping 250.0% month-on-month (m-o-m), according to the latest data from Korea Customs Service. 

Despite the 44,536 mt sharp increase, this gain aligns with historical trends, as importers typically front-load shipments to take advantage of in-quota volumes and lower tariffs at the start of the year. This also marked the third-strongest January on record, as higher volumes from Australia contributed to a strong rebound following the early...

ANALYSIS: Argentina’s Beef Exports Declined 20.1% M-o-M in January, Driven by Sharp Drop in China’s

Argentina’s beef exports totaled 46,159 MT in January 2025, according to the latest data released by their National Institute of Statistics and Census, marking a 20.1% decline M-o-M and a 25.4% drop Y-o-Y. The decline was primarily driven by weaker demand from China, which remained the top destination but saw shipments fall to 30,181 MT, down 26.7% from December and 38.5% from January 2024. China’s share of Argentina’s total beef exports declined to...

Pizza Hut US Delivers Exceptional Big Game Results

Last week, 127.7 million pro football fans watched the sport’s final matchup, and Pizza Hut U.S. was ready to feed them. In fact, the brand claimed its highest sales per restaurant in its 67-year history during this year’s Big Game, proving that the most iconic Sunday in sports remains Pizza Hut’s busiest day of the year. It took a collective effort from the brand’s Digital & Technology, marketing and operations teams to ensure that football fans received piping hot Pizza Hut® pizzas to fuel their game-watching experience...

Statement from Smithfield Foods

Smithfield is pleased to announce that on October 24, 2024, FACTA, LLC, a third-party animal welfare assurance, certification, and training organization, which is accredited as a certifying agent by the California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) to perform audits under the Farm Animal Confinement Initiative (Prop 12), recertified that farms 42104, 42105, 42106, 42107, and 42108, operated by Smithfield’s subsidiary Murphy-Brown LLC in Cedar City, Utah, were in compliance with CDFA’s Animal Confinement Regulations. And previously, on April 8, 2024, FACTA, LLC certified that farms 42100, 42101...

Firehouse Subs® Blazing a Trail to Australia

Firehouse Subs®, the iconic American sub sandwich restaurant chain renowned for delivering large, flavorful portions and exceptional customer experience, is coming to Australia this year. Retail Food Group (RFG), Australia's largest multi-brand retail food franchisor, intends for Firehouse Subs to become the #1 sandwich choice in the country, with plans to open 165 restaurants in 10 years, and the first restaurant planned to open in Southeast Queensland in late 2025.

Founded in Florida, U.S., in 1994 by two former firefighter brothers, Firehouse Subs is celebrated for...

The Retail Rundown: Cold Weather Influences Demand

As February winds down, grocers are looking ahead to the arrival of spring and warmer weather, which typically sparks renewed retail demand after a slower start to the year.

For now, wintry weather remains in full blast, with record-breaking cold temperatures and heavy snow impacting the Central and Eastern US this week. These conditions could support continued retail demand for items like eggs, which are seeing strong consumer interest despite rising shelf prices. However, the extreme cold may not be as favorable for meat consumption, especially in southern regions accustomed to year...

Applebee’s Brings the Big Easy to Your Table with NEW Bourbon Street Cajun Pasta Dishes

Applebee’s is adding new “Bourbon Street Favorites” to its lineup with its NEW Big Easy Menu, featuring two NEW Bourbon Street Cajun Pasta dishes, available for a limited time! Packed with bold New Orleans-inspired flavors, guests can enjoy the NEW Bourbon Street Chicken & Andouille Sausage Penne for $11.99* or the NEW Blackened Shrimp & Andouille Sausage Penne for $13.99*, in addition to fan-favorites including Applebee’s Bourbon Street Chicken & Shrimp Skillet, Bourbon Street Steak, or the Bourbon Street Mushroom Swiss Burger...

First Dual-Branded Applebee’s® | IHOP® Restaurant in the United States Opens in Texas

Dine Brands Global, Inc., the parent company of Applebee's Neighborhood Grill + Bar®, IHOP®, and Fuzzy’s Taco Shop® restaurants, announced the grand opening of its first dual-brand Applebee’s | IHOP restaurant in the U.S. in partnership with franchisee Ramzi Hakim Group. The new restaurant opened to the public on Tuesday, February 18, 2025, in Seguin, Texas, just outside of San Antonio.

At the dual-branded Applebee’s | IHOP restaurant guests can enjoy all...

US Foods Reports Strong Fourth-Quarter and Fiscal Year 2024 Results

US Foods has announced its fourth-quarter and fiscal year results, showcasing strong growth and solid profit performance.

Fourth Quarter Highlights

US Foods achieved a 3.5% increase in total case volume in Q4. Net sales rose by 6.2%, reaching $9.5 billion. The company also saw a noteable rise in net income, which climbed to $66 million. Gross profit for the quarter increased by 4.8%, totaling $1.7 billion.

Fiscal Year 2024 Overview

For the full fiscal year 2024, the company reported a 4.2%...

Freddy's Introduces National Steakburger Day with $1 Original Doubles

Freddy's Frozen Custard & Steakburgers® is officially declaring February 24 as National Steakburger Day to celebrate the brand's famous steakburgers. Starting Feb. 14, Freddy's Rewards members will enjoy a variety of in-app rewards as part of an ongoing celebration. The promotion culminates on February 24 with an in-app offer for a $1 Freddy's Original Double.

First-time guests often ask, 'What makes a Freddy's steakburger special?' Freddy's starts with premium, lean ground beef pressed thin and seared on a flat-top grill to create deliciously crispy...

ANALYSIS: US Beef Impacts if 25% Tariff on Canada Resumes

On Monday, February 3, President Trump announced the postponement of a 25% tariff on Canadian goods, with the possibility of reinstating it in 30 days. This delay comes amid ongoing discussions and underscores the importance of Canada's longstanding trade relationship with the United States (US). Now, universal tariffs are under consideration for future trade action. Canada remains one of the US's largest trading partners, with trade agreements spanning decades, including the Canada-US Free Trade Agreement and the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA).

Beef and live cattle...

ANALYSIS: US 2025 Coarse Ground 73% Sees Spike & February Pullback

Coarse ground 73% has experienced significant price volatility so far in 2025. The past few weeks have seen sharp fluctuations, with prices starting at $2.35/lb in early January before surging to $3.07/lb in just two weeks, a 31% increase, surpassing year-ago levels by 5%, according to Expana’s Benchmark Pricing. This spike was largely driven by a combination of increased demand ahead of the Super Bowl and tightened supplies of lean material.

Historically, this type of price movement is not uncommon for coarse ground...

ANALYSIS: New Zealand’s 2024 Total Cattle Slaughter Falls to 6-Year Lows at 2.63M Head 

New Zealand’s total livestock slaughter in 2024, covering bulls, cows, heifers, and steers, dropped to the lowest level since 2018, reaching 2.63 million head, according to official Stats NZ data.

With an annual decline of 113,823 head, kill rates slumped 4.2% year-on-year (y-o-y), driven primarily by drought-induced destocking, particularly in the South Island. A reduction in breeding cows, along with fewer calves raised since 2022 due to profitability challenges, further tightened supply...

Recall Issued for 33,899 Pounds of Uninspected Beef Tallow

The USDA’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) has announced a recall of approximately 33,899 pounds of beef tallow produced by Common Sense Soap. The affected products were processed, packaged, and labeled on behalf of Lady May Tallow without the required federal inspection.

The recalled items were produced between October 16, 2024, and February 6, 2025, and do not bear the USDA mark of inspection because Common Sense Soap does not have a federal grant of inspection to produce food products. These products were distributed to retail locations nationwide by...

FSIS Issues Public Health Alert for Undeclared Allergen in Pasty Oven Products

The USDA's Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) has issued a public health alert for misbranding and undeclared allergens related to certain products from The Pasty Oven, Inc. The issue was discovered during a routine label inspection.

The affected products are fully cooked, ready-to-eat meat and poultry pasties that were produced using an egg wash, which is not listed as an ingredient on the label. No recall has been issued, as the items are no longer available for purchase...

The Retail Rundown: Valentine’s Day Brings Foodservice Gains 

The grocery segment received a boost from last weekend’s pro-football championship game, with strong movement at the meat case. According to Circana data, retail chicken wing sales ahead of the game reached about $8.7 million, up from $8.5 million the previous week. Pork ribs brought in nearly $7 million, rising from $6.7 million, while ground beef sales totaled approximately $76 million, compared to $74.7 million the prior week. 

Looking ahead, February is typically a slower month for retail and overall meat demand. However, Valentine’s... 

ANALYSIS: Brazilian Beef Exports Kick Off 2025 with a 10.9% M-o-M Decline, Hold Steady Y-o-Y

According to the latest data released by Brazil’s Ministry of Development, Industry, Trade, and Services, Brazilian beef exports totaled 180,471 MT in January 2025, marking a 10.9% decline compared to December. Despite the monthly drop, volumes remained largely stable Y-o-Y, down just 0.6% from January 2024.

Shipments to China, Brazil's primary market, fell 20.0% M-o-M to 91,181 MT, accounting for 50.5% of total exports. On an annual basis, exports to...

White Castle names Melissa Palmisciano Vice President, General Counsel

White Castle, the pioneer of The Original Slider® and renowned restaurant and consumer packaged goods (CPG) brand, announced that Deputy General Counsel Melissa Palmisciano has been promoted to vice president and general counsel.

Palmisciano, who joined White Castle as corporate counsel in 2018 and has provided key legal leadership in areas including intellectual property, real estate, litigation and employment law, will fill the role formerly held by new White Castle President Anthony Joseph.

"Melissa sets a high standard through the tenacity and diligence she exhibits to model White Castle's...

Jennings Premium Meats Breaks Ground on $2 million Expansion

Jennings Premium Meats announced the groundbreaking of a new addition to its current meat processing facility in New Franklin, Mo. The company is adding 4,800 square feet of manufacturing space to increase its snack stick processing capacity.

The $2 million project — partly funded by a grant through the Show-Me Entrepreneurial Grants for Agriculture program from the Missouri Agricultural and Small Business Development Authority — is expected to be completed by July 1.

“This expansion is the next step to build our capacity and continue to...

US Valentine's Day Index 2025

As Valentine’s Day traditionally provides a boost for restaurants and confectionary retailers, Expana has analyzed the key commodities associated with this holiday.

Expana’s US Valentine's Day Chocolate Index consists of cocoa beans, sugar, and skimmed milk powder (SMP). In addition, consumption of strawberries increases during the Valentine’s Day period, and vanilla is widely used in preparation of cakes and chocolates. As a result, Expana has included the prices of these commodities separately in this report.

Although US consumers and retailers will welcome more affordable meal prices than in 2024, the cost of confectionery this Valentine’s...

Subway® is Setting You Up on The Perfect "Eat Cute" with a BOGO Footlong Deal for Valentine's Day

Subway® celebrates the season of love with a sweet deal for all footlong lovers to share with their Valentines.

Starting February 10 for a limited time, fans can use promo code FLBOGO on Subway.com or the Subway app to order their most beloved footlong and get another footlong free.* Whether planning a Galentine's Day, friendly hangout or a night with a special someone, Subway is making your next meal an "Eat Cute" with freshly made...

Meat Production in Germany Rises for the First Time Since 2016 

Germany's meat production increased by 1.4% y-o-y in 2024, totaling 6.9 million metric tons, according to the Federal Statistical Office (Destatis). This marks the first rise in production since 2016.  

Pork production recorded the greatest proportional increase, rising by 1.9% to 44.6 million tons, although still 24.9% below the 2016 peak. Production was also up in terms of the number of pigs slaughtered, by 1.2%, including a 1.6% rise in domestic origin slaughtered. The number of imported pigs slaughtered in German farms, on the other hand...

Delicious Deal Alert! Domino's® Launches Any Crust, Any Toppings for $9.99 Each

Domino's Pizza Inc. is giving customers more of want they want: the most delicious food at a great price. The largest pizza company in the world is offering customers any crust, with any toppings, for $9.99 each when they order online between Feb. 10-March 2.

Customers can choose from Hand Tossed, Handmade Pan, New York Style, Gluten Free or Crunchy Thin Crust as part of this deal.

"With Valentine's Day right around the corner, what's not to love about this offer?!"...

ALDI Announces Plans to Open a Record-Breaking 225+ New Stores in 2025

ALDI, the fastest-growing grocer in the U.S., today announced its plan to open more than 225 new store locations in 2025 as part of the next phase of its five-year national growth strategy. This is the most stores ALDI will open in one year in its nearly 50-year U.S. history as more shoppers than ever look to save up to 36% on an average shopping trip.*

The new stores will open through a combination of organic growth and converting select...

U.S. Pork Exports Record-Large in 2024; Beef Export Value Trends Higher

Exports of U.S. pork eclipsed previous highs in both volume and value in 2024, according to year-end data released by USDA and compiled by the U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF). Beef export value climbed 5% from 2023 despite a slight decrease in volume as unit export values were record high. Lamb exports trended higher than a year ago in both volume and value.

December pork exports totaled 267,132 metric tons (mt), slightly below last year’s large volume, while value increased...

ANALYSIS: Mexico-US Cattle Trade Suspension Impact

The US Department of Agriculture suspended Mexican cattle imports in late November 2024 after detecting New World Screwworm in Southern Mexico. This finding triggered immediate trade restrictions, resulting in estimated losses of roughly 270,000 head through January 2025. December-January trade historically represents 15% of annual cattle movement between both nations. After more than two months of suspended operations and extensive protocol reviews, the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) worked with Mexican authorities to establish comprehensive pre-clearance inspection and treatment procedures...

Sonny’s BBQ Names George McAllan as New Chief Growth Officer

Sonny’s BBQ, the industry-leading BBQ restaurant rooted in quality food and spreading kindness, announced today the addition of George McAllan, new Chief Growth Officer, to the Sonny’s leadership team. George brings decades of experience working in both the franchisor and franchisee roles.

“George’s extensive experience leading operations for some of America’s most-loved restaurant brands is an incredible asset to our team as we continue to expand our footprint and serve our famous BBQ to fans across the South and beyond,” said Jamie...

Panera Bread Announces Santhosh Kumar as Chief Information Officer

Panera Bread, a leader and pioneer in the fast casual restaurant industry, today announced that Santhosh Kumar has joined the company as Chief Information Officer, effective February 12, reporting to Interim CEO Paul Carbone. Kumar will lead the company’s technology organization, responsible for the development, integration and deployment of technology across more than 2,200 Panera cafes. In his new role, Kumar will partner with the Panera Bread leadership team and franchisees to drive an exceptional team member and guest experience.

“I’m thrilled to welcome Santhosh to the Panera Bread leadership team...

ANALYSIS: Australia’s January Beef Exports Ease into 2025 at 81,050 mt

Australia’s beef exports in January 2025 fell 36.4% month-on-month (m-o-m) to 81,050 metric tons (mt), according to data from the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Forestry (DAFF).

The 46,343 mt decline aligned with historical trends, as shipments contracted from December 2024’s strong 127,393 mt.

Asian importers’ preference for receiving products before the Lunar New Year led to higher shipments in December rather than January, particularly for Korea and China, which began receiving in-quota products on January 1. Australia’s seasonal shutdown and...

ANALYSIS: US Tariffs could Shift Export Gains Against Rising Costs for Brazil

President Trump’s trade war could reshape trade flows by driving countries like Mexico and China toward Brazil or forcing them to negotiate with the US in an attempt to avoid tariffs. Simultaneously, a strong USD would likely lead to inflation in Brazil by increasing import costs and boosting export volumes, leading to higher domestic prices in Brazil.

Tariffs will either force buyers closer to Brazil or to negotiate with the US. Should a new wave of tariffs lead to a decrease in the competitiveness of...

ANALYSIS: Uruguay’s Beef Exports Kick Off 2025 with 17.4% Monthly Growth, Up 3.9% Y-o-Y

Uruguay’s beef exports surged in January 2025, reaching 31,750 MT, marking a 17.4% increase M-o-M from December 2024’s 27,038 MT and a 3.9% rise Y-o-Y from January 2024’s 30,544 MT. While the overall trend shows resilience, the composition of shipments reveals shifting market dynamics, particularly concerning China’s slowing demand and the US’s growing share.

Shipments to China, the largest buyer, totaled 12,742 MT, capturing 40.1% of Uruguay’s total exports, which represents a 12.1% M-o-M increase. However...

Meat Institute Expands Legislative Affairs and Marketing Teams with New Hires

The Meat Institute today announced the expansion of its legislative affairs and marketing teams with the addition of two new employees. (photos available by email request to slittle@meatinstitute.org.)

Chris Chaffee joins the Meat Institute as Director of Legislative Affairs working with Vice President of Legislative Affairs Nathan Fretz advocating for the meat and poultry industry with members of congress and federal officials. Chaffee will also help manage the Meat Institute’s Political Action Committee, MeatPAC.

“Chris Chaffee has extensive experience in advocacy, as well as serving in various...

Freddy's Promotes Erin Walter to Chief Marketing Officer

Fast-casual restaurant concept Freddy's Frozen Custard & Steakburgers® announced today the promotion of Erin Walter to chief marketing officer (CMO).

As the newly appointed CMO, Erin Walter will oversee all aspects of the company's marketing initiatives, working closely with the executive team to drive brand awareness, guest engagement, and overall business growth. Her innovative leadership style and strategic thinking are expected to bring a fresh perspective to the company's marketing strategies.

"Erin's talent and dedication have greatly benefited our team. Her strategic vision and creativity have been...