ANALYSIS: Chicken Production Continues to Set New Watermark

2025 is shaping up as a landmark year for US chicken production. Cumulative ready-to-cook (RTC) tonnage has reached 34.4 billion pounds, surpassing any prior record and outpacing 2024 by 1.19 billion pounds. The weekly data also remains strong. For the week ending October 11, RTC tonnage hit 888 million pounds, which is 40 million pounds above the 5-year average. This theoretically equates to roughly 1,000 additional truckloads of production.

Far from a short-term spike, this production surge has created a dual reality: buyers enjoy abundant supply, while some sellers grapple with the challenges of managing exceptionally high...

The Retail Rundown: Poultry Promotions Pick Up Steam

Retailers are leaning into autumn demand with meat and poultry features this week, as consumers favor home-cooked meals and prepare for the holiday season.

With Thanksgiving a little more than five weeks away, early holiday promotions are starting to surface. Turkey features are gaining momentum, now accounting for 5% of total ad space, up two points from the previous week.

Retail buying opportunities for seafood and beef held steady week-over-week at 27.5% and 22.2%, respectively. Pork promotions dipped to 21.4% as National Pork Month wraps up, while chicken features rose to 19.4%.

ANALYSIS: Avian Influenza Outbreaks in EU Accelerate in 2025, Surpassing Previous Year's Pace

The European poultry sector faces mounting pressure from a resurgent wave of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI), with outbreak frequency significantly exceeding 2024 levels and raising critical supply chain concerns across member states.

On October 7, 2025, Dutch authorities ordered the culling of 71,000 chickens at a northern Netherlands facility following confirmed H5N1 detection, marking the country's first outbreak since March. The Dutch government has refrained from implementing nationwide indoor confinement measures. However, an expert animal disease panel is convening for a comprehensive risk assessment...

ANALYSIS: Jumbo Boneless Breast Market Ends Q3 on a Rollercoaster of Prices

Jumbo boneless breast meat has had a rollercoaster of a year so far in the chicken market. Quotations started off the year only ten cents higher than the 5-year average, but by mid-April were more than $1.00 over the 5-year average and were only $0.28 or 9.3% under the seasonal high.

This was largely attributed to many participants in the fast-food industry building up large inventories of chicken in order to run chicken promotions later in the year as opposed to beef. At the same time, the industry was struggling with disease-related bird losses due to HPAI and avian metapneumovirus...

The Retail Rundown: Retail Promotions Pivot Toward Baking and Comfort Foods

By mid-October, grocery retailers are shifting their marketing focus toward fall comfort meals, baking, and holiday preparation.

Typically, retail egg sales see a seasonal lift as more consumers cook hot breakfasts at home. The onset of baking season further boosts demand, with more eggs being used in breads, pies, pastries, and other seasonal favorites.

In the shell egg market, Expana reports a mixed retail landscape—some retailers are seeing stronger demand as cooler weather sets in, while others note slower movement following lackluster promotional outcomes...

Inside QDOBA's Growth Strategy with New CMO Jon Burke

Expana recently had the chance to catch up with Jon Burke, the newly promoted Chief Marketing Officer (CMO) of QDOBA.  He offered a behind-the-scenes look at what’s next for the rapidly expanding restaurant chain. With over 825 stores across the United States and Puerto Rico and a pipeline of 600 more, QDOBA is gearing up for its first national marketing campaign. 

In the announcement about this promotion, CEO John Cywinkski said, "Jon is a trusted and respected leader who has earned this opportunity...

Wendy’s Unveils “Project Fresh” to Drive Growth and Elevate Brand Value

Looking to enhance its brand after a disappointing valuation, The Wendy's Company has unveiled Project Fresh. According to the Board of Directors, this strategic plan is designed to accelerate profitability and enhance shareholder value.

"Wendy's Board of Directors and management team are dissatisfied with the current valuation of the Company and have been working to put the Company on the right path to create value for our franchisees, employees and shareholders," said Chairman of the Board, Art Winkleblack. "Execution is underway and we are confident that Project F

Tariff Talks 2025: Expana’s Weekly Rundown #30

Expana’s global team of specialist reporters has been tracking every twist and turn in the fluid tariff situation.

Click to read: "Tariff Talks 2025: Expana's Weekly Rundown #30."

This report allows the Expana community to see where key commodity markets stand as of this past week... Click the above PDF report, or keep scrolling to read in plain text.

...

On October 7, US President Trump and Canadian Prime Minister Carney met in the White House. The possibility a US-Canadian trade deal was a main topic of discussion...

TGI Fridays Supports TSA and Air Traffic Control Workers with Complimentary Meals During Shutdown

TGI Fridays is dedicated to providing nutritious meals to TSA and air traffic control workers during the temporary government shutdown.

Eligible employees with, valid ID, can enjoy a complimentary meal per day from October 9 to October 23, while supplies last, or until the shutdown is lifted, from a specially curated menu. 

The menu features favorites like the Cheeseburger with fries, Chicken Fingers with fries, Crispy or Grilled Chicken Sandwich with fries, or Chicken Caesar Salad. This offer is valid at all locations...

The Retail Rundown: Strategic Promotions Boost October Protein Opportunities

October offers a strategic window for retailers to tap into increased consumer demand for protein, thanks to the alignment of seasonal supply, promotional campaigns, and competitive pricing.

National Pork Month, observed this month, coincides with a peak in pork production—averaging about 2.5 billion pounds over the past five years, up nearly 9% from September.

This seasonal surplus enables retailers to run targeted promotions that pair attractive pricing with educational content, driving both consumer engagement and sales...

Vertical Cold Storage's Strategic Expansion with First Customs Bonded Warehouse

In today's global trade environment, customs bonded warehousing has become increasingly appealing to businesses seeking financial flexibility.

Tariffs can significantly inflate costs, but by deferring duties until products are sold in the US market or re-exported, companies can optimize cash flow and gain strategic operational advantages.

Vertical Cold Storage, a leader in cold storage and logistics for the food and beverage industry, is marking an achievement with the full licensing of its first customs bonded warehouse.

The company strategically chose to expand at its...

New Report From FMI Reveals a Significant Shift in Consumer Dining Habits

A new report from The Food Industry Association (FMI) uncovers a significant shift in dining habits.

The study shows that consumers are increasingly choosing deli-prepared foods in place of restaurant meals.

The Power of Foodservice at Retail 2025 examines the factors influencing consumer motivation for choosing deli-prepared options, offering insights from the consumer's perspective on foodservice at retail.

Data from the report revealed that 53% of Americans now take a hybrid approach to creating meals; combining deli-prepared options with other items...

Foster Farms Recalls 3.8 Million Pounds of Corn Dogs

According to an announcement by the US Department of Agriculture's (USDA) Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS), approximately 3,843,040 pounds of chicken and turkey on-a-stick corn dog products are being recalled by Foster Poultry Farms, LLC due to possible contamination of extraneous materials, specifically pieces of wood embedded in the batter.

This action was taken after both the establishment and FSIS received multiple customer complaints, including five that involved injuries.

These items were produced between July 30, 2024, and August 4, 2025...

Tariff Talks 2025: Expana's Weekly Rundown #29

Expana’s global team of specialist reporters has been tracking every twist and turn in the fluid tariff situation.

Click to read: "Tariff Talks 2025: Expana's Weekly Rundown #29."

This report allows the Expana community to see where key commodity markets stand as of this past week... Click the above PDF report, or keep scrolling to read in plain text.

...

On September 29, the US placed 50% tariffs on imports of timber, lumber, and their derivative products, according to the US Presidential Action. 

Also starting October 1, the US will be imposing 100%...

ANALYSIS: Seasonality Resumes in August Following a Turbulent Year for Chicken Cold Storage 

While year-over-year (YOY) fluctuations in cold storage inventories for August varied widely between lines, most categories closely aligned with the average month-over-month (MOM) changes. August was a month which brought a semblance of normalcy with it to a market that, throughout much of the year, had been unseasonably robust.

Pricing for WOGs, especially the middle tiers, fell sharply in July, then continued with a much more gradual decline at the beginning of August before flattening out. This is a...

ANALYSIS: Chinese Authorities Arrive in Brazil for Audit with a Plan to Resume Chicken Exports

Brazil’s poultry industry is navigating a critical juncture, marked by the resumption of exports to the European Union (EU) (in late-September 2025) and an ongoing Chinese audit that could determine the future of poultry trade with its largest chicken importer. Approximately 11% of Brazilian chicken meat exports were destined to China in 2024.

A technical team from China has arrived in Brazil to assess the country’s sanitary and phytosanitary control systems in the wake of the Avian Influenza (AI)...

ANALYSIS: Hatchery Figures Reflect Robust Broiler Production Alongside Shifting Market Dynamics

The year-over-year (YOY) change in the number of broiler-type pullets hatched has varied widely each month. However, when we take a step back and look at the data as a total, we find that year-to-date broiler pullets hatched are above that of last year, even though August’s data shows a 5.3% decrease. The lower YoY number of broiler-type pullets hatched this August is likely more a function of last year’s high hatch, along with an additional working day...

Exploring Dynamics in Poultry and Turkey Markets - Agri-Food Americas 2025

Commodity experts showcased in-depth analytical presentations from their respective markets on day two of Agri-Food Americas 2025, held in Chicago, Illinois, from September 23rd to 24th.

Taking center stage in the main ballroom, Russ Whitman, Director of Market Reporting at Expana, captivated the audience with a detailed analysis of the poultry market.

Describing chicken as "the protein that can't do any wrong," Whitman emphasized its competitive edge over beef, thanks to a compelling price advantage. Chicken's popularity continues to surge, with August's retail data...

The Retail Rundown: Fall Promotions Highlight Beef Roasts, Pork Ahead of October

Fall retail trends have been unfolding for several weeks, with grocers promoting cooler-weather favorites and leaning into the early wave of seasonal excitement—embraced by some shoppers and resisted by those reluctant to let go of summer.

With the season officially underway as of Monday, beef roasts are seeing stronger promotion, now accounting for 28% of total beef ads compared with 24% two weeks ago. Even so, steaks remain the top feature item, followed by ground beef...

Dino Nuggets On the Go? Tyson Drops New Chicken Cups

On September 22, Tyson Foods dropped chicken nuggets in a brand-new form: Chicken Cups, as detailed in a company press release. These new nugs are available in grocery freezers throughout the USA.

"Tyson Foods’ Innovation team developed this new cup format after recognizing the consumer need for more convenient ways to eat chicken. Ideal for busy lifestyles, the cups are stored frozen and can be enjoyed straight from the microwave in 90 seconds to 2 minutes," read the release...

ANALYSIS: The Great Sandwich Debate, Beef or Chicken?

In the ongoing competition between chicken sandwiches and hamburgers at quick-service restaurants (QSRs), wholesale pricing plays a critical role in determining which protein gets the promotional spotlight.

QSR chains typically rely on raw material pricing to decide which item to promote, balancing both cost-efficiency and customer demand. In this analysis, we use the wholesale price of imported frozen 90% lean boneless beef (EBP 3555) from Australia and New Zealand, blended with domestic fresh 50s (EBP 1062) to create a 75% lean burger patty to represent the hamburger. For chicken sandwiches...

New USDA Export Plan: Red Meat and Poultry Via Rail to Mexico; Screwworm Case Contained

As of September 18, a new, collaborative plan to export US red meat and poultry to the Mexican market via rail gained support from the USDA FSIS. 

"Through this innovative partnership, inspection personnel from Mexico’s National Service of Agri-Food, Health, Safety and Quality (SENASICA) will be inspecting at participating federally inspected establishments to reinspect and clear for export eligible US meat and poultry shipments at the point of origin. This process will eliminate the need for routine border inspections by Mexican officials..."

ANALYSIS: September Sees Jumbo Boneless Breast Meat Prices Slide Amid Ample Supplies

September brought not only a change in seasons and weather patterns but also a pronounced shift in the chicken market...

The Retail Rundown: Chicken Promotions Fall Short in “National Month”

Beef and seafood ads were nearly even this week, each accounting for about 25% of featured buying opportunities. Pork and turkey held steady, while eggs gained ground, with the South Central region seeing the most feature activity.

Expana notes that the back-to-school lift in retail shell egg demand has largely passed, with September typically a slower period outside of the early-season bump. 

Despite September being “National Chicken Month,” Expana’s weekly survey found chicken ads down from last week and slightly below late August levels...

Perdue Farms Strengthens Leadership Team with Three Senior Vice President Appointments

Perdue Farms, a fourth-generation, family-owned U.S. food and agricultural products company, today announced the appointments of three accomplished executives to its senior leadership team: Kim Poe as Senior Vice President, Strategy & Corporate Development; Sal Gala as Senior Vice President, Procurement; and Brice Westring as Senior Vice President, Research & Development (R&D).

The appointments underscore Perdue Farms’ commitment to bringing in diverse talent and leadership experience that will guide the company into its second century and advance its vision to be the most...

KFC US Names Melissa Cash as Chief Marketing Officer

Bolstering Powerhouse Leadership Team Poised to Accelerate Brand's Comeback

KFC U.S. today announced Melissa Cash has been named Chief Marketing Officer, effective Sept. 16. Cash will report to Catherine Tan-Gillespie, President of KFC U.S., who previously held the CMO position before her promotion in April 2025.

In her role as CMO of KFC U.S., Cash will be the driving force for the brand's modern marketing strategy, leading brand strategy, calendar, food innovation, integrated marketing, media and communications, consumer insights and analytics and...

Major Restaurant Chains Ramp Up Market Expansion

This week, big players in the foodservice industry, including Chipotle, TGI Fridays, and Qdoba, have unveiled ambitious expansion plans.

By stretching accessibility and strengthening their global presence, these companies are ramping up efforts to reach international markets.

First, Qdoba announced its largest development deal in its brand's history.

The company partnered with Barry Dubin of B Wild Investments in an agreement to develop 50 new QDOBA restaurants across the states of Alaska, Utah, Nevada, Colorado and New Mexico.

It also announced that B Wild Investments has signed...

ANALYSIS: July Broiler Exports, Seasonal Surge Outpaces the Norm

US broiler exports totaled 556.6 million pounds in July 2025, marking a 7.6% month-over-month (MOM) increase and a 3.2% year-over-year (YOY) gain. The expansion was well above the five-year average for July, which typically reflects a 1% decline from June. While overall volumes tracked stronger than expected, trade flows revealed sharp contrasts between key markets.

Mexico remained the leading destination by volume, bringing in 134 million pounds of US chicken in July. This represented a 1.5% MOM gain, which...

Godshall's Quality Meats Launches New Chicken Bacon

AAMP Processor Member Godshall's Quality Meats announces the launch of its newest innovation, Chicken Bacon. Crafted from premium whole muscle chicken and authentically smoked in Godshall's own smokehouse, the product offers a leaner option for consumers who want the indulgent flavor of traditional bacon.

Chicken Bacon debuted in August at Lowes Foods in the Carolinas. Distribution is expanding to over 200 Acme and Safeway locations across the Mid-Atlantic in September, and additional stores later this year.

"Godshall's sales team is proud to introduce their latest innovation...

ANALYSIS: Avian Influenza and Aging Infrastructure Tightens UK Chicken Supply

The UK poultry industry continues to face significant challenges stemming from both disease outbreaks and structural issues within the sector.

Avian Influenza remains a major concern, with multiple cases reported across the country in 2025. Following an outbreak in Somerset earlier in August, a Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) H5N1 strain was confirmed at a poultry facility in Devon on August 31, 2025. Government authorities mandated the humane culling of all birds on the affected premises. These recurring outbreaks, which historically intensify during the autumn months, have been disrupting market...

Retailers Turn to Convenient Meal Solutions for the Busy Back-to-School Season

Back-to-school season is upon us, bringing busy mornings, drop-offs, and after-school activities. Consumers are leaning towards quick and convenient snacks and meals to help them get through the day.

Recently, grocery store circulars have spotlighted new products hitting the shelves, all aiming to capture the on-the-go consumer's dollar.

Buffalo Wild Wings X Slim Jim

Conagra Brands' Slim Jim brand has teamed up with Buffalo Wild Wings to introduce a new addition to its meat stick lineup...

Tyson Foods Expands Custom Nugget Lineup with Three New Football Fan Favorites

Retailers are gearing up with seasonal staples and tailgate essentials, while consumers are buzzing with excitement as the fall and the American football season are ushered in.

One major industry player, Tyson Foods, is aiming to capture consumer dollars through its latest culinary innovation.

The company has announced three new chicken nugget offerings, inspired by iconic football franchises: the Denver Broncos, Green Bay Packers, and Philadelphia Eagles. These nuggets are available at stadiums and regional retailers, tapping into the passion of football fans nationwide.

ANALYSIS: Chicken Production Hits New Seasonal Highs in July Amid Shifting Market

July is typically a time of year in which chicken production is hampered by hot, humid weather, as average live weights fall from a peak in May until cooler weather returns at the end of August. However, this July, ready-to-cook (RTC) production reached a new seasonal peak and the highest figure of the year. In a typical fashion, average live weights fell from May to June but then were maintained throughout July. However, more birds were harvested this July than in any...

Tariff Talks 2025: Expana's Weekly Rundown #25

Expana’s global team of specialist reporters has been tracking every twist and turn in the fluid tariff situation.

Click to read "Tariff Talks 2025: Expana's Weekly Rundown #25."

This report allows the Expana community to see where key commodity markets stand as of this past week... Click the above PDF report, or keep scrolling to read in plain text.

...

In the States, a federal appeals court ruled that US President Trump’s use of global tariffs exceeded presidential authority, but they remain active until at least October 14, 2025...

Campaign Spotlight: StarKist Promotes On-the-Go Protein with Tuna, Chicken, and Salmon Pouches

Tuna giant StarKist debuted its ‘Fuel for the Modern Hustle’ campaign that celebrates routines powered by ready-to-eat and lean protein sources.

The campaign coincides with back-to-school season, which means routines, meetings and life in general begin to pick up speed after a relaxing summer season. The company is using its campaign to showcase its snack lines, including its no-prep, portable protein pouches for the on-the-go consumers.

StarKist tapped actress Tiffani Thiessen...

Restaurants Embrace the Autumn Shift

The chill is in the air, and as we welcome a new, crisp month, the industry is gearing up for consumers to embrace autumn flavors and seasonal recipes. With the arrival of the new season, people are swapping their cookout favorites and salads for bonfires, comfort food, and Sunday wings.

Retailers are ahead of the curve, rolling out smoky and savory specials to capitalize on the shift, while some focus on attracting budget-conscious customers amidst rising food and labor costs.

More McValue

Starting September 8, McDonald’s will expand its...

Dave's Hot Chicken Accelerates International Expansion with Exclusive European Agreement

Dave's Hot Chicken, the fastest-growing Nashville-style hot chicken sensation from Los Angeles, has finalized a landmark agreement with UK-based Azzurri Group, granting the hospitality powerhouse exclusive development rights across Europe. Under the new agreement, Azzurri Group will develop 180 Dave's Hot Chicken restaurants across 10 European countries, leveraging a joint venture partnership model to team up with experienced local operators in each market. These countries are France, Portugal, Spain, Germany, Poland, Hungary, the Czech Republic, the Netherlands, Italy, and Turkey...

ANALYSIS: July Cold Storage Report Highlights Divergent Trends Across the Chicken Complex

Overall cold storage of chicken in July rose 2.8% year-over-year (YOY), narrowing the gap with the 5-year average. Much of the increase was tied to thigh meat, breasts and breast meat, and wings, though each for different reasons. In contrast, whole chickens and leg quarters registered YOY declines despite month-over-month (MOM) gains.

Quotations for thigh meat, bone-in breasts, and front halves trended lower through June and July, while jumbo and medium boneless breasts slipped through June and the...

Tariff Talks 2025: Expana's Weekly Rundown #24

Expana’s global team of specialist reporters has been tracking every twist and turn in the fluid tariff situation.

Click to read "Tariff Talks 2025: Expana's Weekly Rundown #24."

This report allows the Expana community to see where key commodity markets stand as of this past week... Click the above PDF report, or keep scrolling to read in plain text.

...

On August 22, Canadian Prime Minister Carney dropped most retaliatory tariffs on US products, beginning September 1, reported Expana in an article that suggested the move may help soothe trade relations...

Hormel Sees Q3 Sales Growth but Falls Short on Earnings

Just before markets opened Thursday, Hormel Foods reported its third-quarter financial results, missing analysts’ estimates for the period. 

The company posted net sales of $3.03 billion, with organic net sales rising 6%. Operating income totaled $240 million, while adjusted operating income was $254 million.

Earnings before income taxes reached $237 million, with adjusted earnings before income taxes at $251 million. The effective tax rate was 22.3%.

Diluted earnings per share were $0.33, and adjusted diluted earnings per share came...

Viva Raw Recalls Pet Food Over Salmonella and Listeria Concerns

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced a voluntary recall from Viva Raw, LLC on August 25. In the announcement, the company stated two lots of dog and cat food may be contaminated with Salmonella and Listeria monocytogenes.

Items from this recall are sold frozen, in 1 lb. bricks, wrapped in clear vacuum packaging. They include Lot codes 21495 or 21975 printed on the top. Labels include:

• Viva Ground Beef for Dogs
• Viva Beef & Turkey for Puppies  
• Viva Ground Chicken for Dogs
• Viva Chunked Chicken...

The Retail Rundown: Labor Day Protein Promotions at a Glance

Seafood leads Labor Day protein promotions, accounting for 27.1% of total ad volume. Pork follows at 23.2%, with beef and chicken each capturing about 22%. Retail buying opportunities for turkey held steady at 3.5%, while promotional activity for shell eggs remained limited.

Back-to-school demand has provided fair to fairly good retail support for eggs, according to Expana, with shelf prices holding mainly steady across most areas in the past month. Last week, white large Grade A eggs were advertised at $4.49 per dozen discounted, nearly $1...

Chipotle Introduces a Whole New Way to Order for a Small Group: Build-Your-Own Chipotle

Chipotle Mexican Grill today announced it will launch "Build-Your-Own Chipotle," a family meal offering intended to feed groups of four to six people, starting tomorrow, August 26. A digital-exclusive menu option, "Build-Your-Own Chipotle" is a shareable, customizable spread of real ingredients that can be ready for pickup in as little as 15 minutes.

How To Build-Your-Own Chipotle

Whether it's for friends or family gatherings, "Build-Your-Own Chipotle" brings the Chipotle...

Domino's® Best Deal Ever Offer Has Returned!

Domino's Pizza Inc. is turning up the heat as summer winds down with the return of its "Best Deal Ever" promotion. For a limited time, starting on Aug. 25, customers can devour any pizza with any toppings for $9.99 each.

"Summer may be wrapping up, but the fun doesn't have to," said Kate Trumbull, Domino's executive vice president – chief marketing officer. "We're bringing back our hottest deal yet so customers can enjoy all sorts of delicious pizza combinations at a great value. Whether you're preparing...

ShopRite Expands Fresh Prepared Chicken Offerings with Perdue Partnership

ShopRite's private label, Bowl & Basket, is teaming up with Perdue Farms to offer customers No Antibiotics Ever (NAE) prepared chicken in stores. Offerings include ready-to-eat NAE rotisserie chicken, roasted Oven-Stuffer chickens, whole roaster breast, fried chicken, chicken wings, and tenders.

“We know customers are looking for convenient, better-for-you options for mealtime without sacrificing great taste,” said Mark Van Buskirk, Group Vice President of Fresh for Wakefern Food Corp., the supermarket cooperative and merchandising and distribution arm...

ANALYSIS: Protein Production Outlook for Q3

The USDA is forecasting a mixed outlook for protein production in Q3, with significant declines expected in beef and turkey, while pork and broiler output remain steady or edge higher. Beef production is projected to fall sharply year-over-year (YOY), down 5.4% from 6.78 billion pounds in Q3 2024 to 6.42 billion pounds in Q3 2025. This reflects a tightening cattle supply pipeline, a trend that has persisted throughout much of the year and continues to pressure beef availability.

Turkey output is also forecast to contract, slipping 4.5% YOY to...

ANALYSIS: Navigating Growth Amid Constraints in 2025 Broiler Hatchery

The USDA broiler hatchery data for early-to-mid 2025, measured year-over-year against 2024’s record-setting output, shows the industry balancing robust demand with clear production constraints.

Broiler-type pullet chick placements are down in several months, including a notable 4.14% YOY decline in June, following unprecedented pullet highs in 2024. That pullback reflects producers operating at or near processing and hatchery capacity, while intentionally moderating placements to avoid oversupply and...

Supply-side constraints are compounded by flock health issues. Regional...

Tariff Talks 2025: Expana's Weekly Rundown #23

Expana’s global team of specialist reporters has been tracking every twist and turn in the fluid tariff situation.

Click to read "Tariff Talks 2025: Expana's Weekly Rundown #23."

This report allows the Expana community to see where key commodity markets stand as of this past week... Click the above PDF report, or keep scrolling to read in plain text.

...

This week, tariff news took a bit of a backseat to US President Trump’s dealings with Russian President Putin in Alaska—along with President Trump’s meeting with many European leaders...

222 Poultry Facilities Recognized by Joint Poultry Industry Safety & Health Council

The Joint Poultry Industry Safety & Health Council recognized 222 chicken and turkey facilities with safety awards at the National Safety Conference for the Poultry Industry in Destin, Fla. The facilities were honored in recognition of their outstanding performance through the implementation of innovative and effective employee safety and health programs.

Award consideration was based on injury statistics from the 2022–2024 period and a review of written applications evaluated by academia and other safety experts.

This year, 49 facilities earned the highest level of recognition...

The Retail Rundown: Retailers See Early Back-to-School Spending Amid Price Concerns

While some students are already back in class, others are squeezing in the last stretch of summer before Labor Day. Either way, grocers are bracing for busy aisles as parents juggle back-to-school supplies and grocery lists. This week’s ads highlight plenty of lunchbox staples, including snacks and deli items. 

The National Retail Federation (NRF) reports that two-thirds of shoppers had already begun back-to-school purchases by early July, with more than half starting earlier than last year. Concerns about higher prices linked to tariffs...

HHS Allows FDA Emergency Use of Animal Drugs to Combat New World Screwworm

The US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has issued a declaration allowing the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to grant Emergency Use Authorizations (EUAs) for drugs used to treat or prevent infestations caused by New World Screwworm in animals.

"Today we are taking decisive action to safeguard the nation’s food supply from this emerging threat,” said HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. “This authorization equips FDA to act quickly, limit the spread of New World Screwworm, and protect America’s...

Popeyes Re-introduces its Wings Lineup

Officially in restaurants nationwide today, Popeyes® is re-introducing their wings lineup, now with a new mild marinated base on their bone- mild or spicy!

Popeyes new wings lineup spotlights their three bestselling sauce flavors: Signature Hot, Sweet 'N Spicy and Honey BBQ, as well as four all-new dry rubs: Ghost Pepper, Lemon Pepper, Garlic Parm, and Buffalo all featured on a mild marinated based wing.

• Mild Base on All Bone-In Wings: Now every bone-in wing starts with our mild marinated base – featuring a savory...

Tariff Talks 2025: Expana's Weekly Rundown #22

Expana’s global team of specialist reporters has been tracking every twist and turn in the fluid tariff situation.

Click to read "Tariff Talks 2025: Expana's Weekly Rundown #22."

This report allows the Expana community to see where key commodity markets stand as of this past week... Click the above PDF report, or keep scrolling to read in plain text.

...

The timeline for tariff negotiations between the US and China trade teams has been extended for another 90 days—moving the deadline to November 10, according to a White House fact sheet...

ANALYSIS: China’s Meat Imports Edge Up 0.6% MOM to 533,241 mt in July 2025

China imported 533,241 metric tons (mt) of meat, including variety meats in July 2025, rising just 0.9% (3,241 mt) from a month earlier, according to preliminary data from the General Administration of Customs (GACC).

Despite the low base earlier in the year, the modest July increase also failed to match the usual sharp seasonal gains that follow a softer spring and summer, when importers typically build stocks ahead of winter dishes such as hotpots, soups and stews and other traditional...

The Retail Rundown: Beef Tops Retail Ads as Grocers Prepare for Labor Day

With Labor Day just under three weeks away, grocers are preparing for summer’s last big grilling rush. Most holiday orders have already been locked in, and meat and prepared food departments are expected to see strong traffic as shoppers savor the last days of summer.

Beef has overtaken seafood as the most advertised protein this week, representing 27.0% of retail buying opportunities. Pork is close behind at 26.6%, while seafood has eased to 23.3%. Chicken remains steady at 18%, and turkey ads inched up to 3%...