Church’s Texas Chicken® Announces Changes and New Additions to its C-Suite

Church’s Texas Chicken®, one of the largest quick-service chicken restaurant chains in the world, today announced two important changes to its executive leadership team. The appointments include a new Chief Marketing Officer (CMO) and Chief Legal Officer (CLO) effective immediately.

Church’s current Executive Vice President and CMO, Natalia Franco, has announced her plans to retire at the end of January. Franco joined Church’s in 2023 and helped revitalize and spearhead the company’s branding, marketing, digital and communication efforts over the past two years with...

Foreign-Owned Agricultural Land in the US Increases

From 2022 to 2023, there was a 1.58-million-acre increase in foreign-held agricultural land, according to Farm Bureau. In the US, 45.85 million acres of agricultural land were held by foreign investors in 2023, representing 3.61% of total privately held agricultural land, according to the USDA’s Agricultural Foreign Investment Disclosure Act (AFIDA) report which shows an upward trend of land ownership by foreign entities across the nation. 

Since 2010, reports of foreign-held agricultural land have increased. This expansion is 21 million acres, or an area larger than South Carolina...

Capriotti's Sandwich Shop Debuts First Location in New Jersey

Capriotti's Sandwich Shop (Capriotti's), known for its award-winning, hand-crafted cheese steaks, turkey subs and more, has announced its debut in New Jersey with opening of a new location in Princeton. The shop is slated to open in the Princeton Shopping Center, at 301 N Harrison Street Unit 470 on Jan. 21st, 2025. Capriotti's introduces local communities across the U.S. to the brand's 40-year-old tradition of slow-roasting whole, all-natural turkeys in-house, and other one-of-a-kind sandwiches made using the freshest ingredients...

The Retail Rundown: Weekly Protein Recap; CPI Update

Seafood leads protein advertising for a third consecutive week, accounting for nearly 31% of total ad space. Pork follows with nearly 23% and beef makes up 21%. Chicken represents 19% of the advertising share, while eggs capture less than 1%.

The seafood category shows mixed price trends year-over-year (YOY), with fresh cod fillets discounted to $8.37 per pound last week—down 53 cents from the previous year. Prices for catfish and tilapia remained steady YOY, each averaging about $6.60 discounted...

USDA’s Third New Ruling: Aimed to Help Contract Chicken Farmers

As part of the Packers & Stockyards Act of 1923 which sought to even the agricultural playing field for the meat and animal protein industry, the USDA will now give contract chicken farmers better insight into payment rates for their birds, according to a press release. 

This is the third installment in a series of regulation reforms under the Biden-Harris administration which is intended to level the playing field, bring stability and fairness, and should provide information about capital improvements farmers must make to keep and/or renew...

Panera Bread Announces New Leadership Additions to Marketing and Culinary Teams

Panera Bread, a leader and pioneer in the fast casual restaurant industry, today announced two new leadership appointments in marketing and culinary with the addition of Robin Seward as Senior Vice President, Brand and Integrated Marketing, and Scott Uehlein as Vice President, Culinary. Both leaders joined Panera in early January and report to Chief Marketing Officer Mark Shambura.

Robin Seward joins Panera as Senior Vice President, Brand and Integrated Marketing. A seasoned leader and brand strategist, Seward oversees all strategic marketing planning, including consumer insights, product...

Shake Shack Names Justin Mennen as Chief Information and Technology Officer

Shake Shack Inc. today announced the appointment of Justin Mennen as Chief Information and Technology Officer, effective January 13, 2025. Mennen will report to Rob Lynch, CEO of Shake Shack, and will oversee all aspects of technology.

“Justin brings a wealth of experience as a technology leader to Shake Shack, along with an impressive track record of driving innovation across industries,” said Lynch. “He’s joining us at a pivotal time in our growth, and we’re confident his expertise will play a key role in...

Pat Hafner Elevated to President of Outback Steakhouse

Bloomin' Brands has announced the promotion of Pat Hafner to Executive Vice President, President of Outback Steakhouse, the company’s flagship brand. In this new role, Hafner will oversee all operations and drive the continued growth and development of the Outback brand.

Hafner’s journey with Bloomin’ Brands began in the restaurant as a server at Outback Steakhouse. Over the years, he steadily advanced through a series of roles, including Manager, Managing Partner, Joint Venture Partner, and Regional Vice President.

In 2018, Hafner expanded his resume by joining Carrabba’s...

ANALYSIS: A 2024 Review of Broiler Headcounts, Hatchability, and Consumer Preference

2024 rounded out the year with a cumulative broiler headcount that was 1.2% below that of 2023. While this lower percentage doesn’t seem to fit the narrative of the past three months, it actually helps illustrate the adaptability of the industry in the wake of the lowest yearly hatchability average of the past five years.

In Q1, the headcount for 2024 was 2.7% lower than 2023. This shifted to 1.7% lower in Q2, 0.7% lower in Q3, and finally the numbers for Q4 of 2024...

Firehouse Subs® Sets Sights on Brazil with Ambitious Expansion Plans

Today, the Firehouse Subs® brand announces its entry to Brazil building on its international expansion. The brand plans to open more than 500 restaurants in 10 years across the country. The first restaurant is expected to launch in 2025 and will mark Firehouse Subs debut in South America.

Founded in Jacksonville, Florida, in 1994 by two former firefighter brothers, Firehouse Subs is celebrated for its premium sandwiches, made using a unique cooking method unlocking juicier flavors by steaming the meats and cheeses...

Rajbhog Foods Empanada Mislabeling Triggers FSIS Alert

The FSIS has issued a public health alert regarding frozen items labeled as Chicken Curry Empanadas from Rajbhog Foods.

These products may actually contain Apple Cinnamon Empanadas, which include milk, a known allergen. A recall was not initiated because the affected items are no longer available for purchase.

The frozen empanadas were produced on November 14, 2024, and packaged on November 20-21, 2024.

The 9.6 oz packages are in cardboard boxes labeled as "bettergoods TRADITIONALLY CRAFTED Chicken Curry Empanadas," with best-by...

The Retail Rundown: Post-Holiday Slowdown Influences January Spending 

January typically marks a slowdown in consumer spending as households transition from the holiday season to their regular routines.

Early in the month, retailers experience a short-lived boost in sales, driven by replenishment efforts after the holiday food rush. As schools reopen and guests leave, families restock essentials for breakfast, lunch, and weeknight meals.

This restocking coincides with New Year’s resolutions, especially those focused on healthier eating. Consequently, shoppers gravitate toward the perimeter of the stores where fresh items, including produce, proteins, and dairy, are featured. Although retail...

Panera Brands Announces Leadership Change, Appoints Paul Carbone as Interim CEO

Panera Brands, one of the world’s largest fast-casual restaurant platforms and the parent company to Panera Bread and Caribou Coffee, has announced a change in leadership.

José Alberto Dueñas, who served as CEO of Panera Bread for just over a year and a half, is stepping down from his role.

During his tenure, Dueñas earned praise from Board Chair Patrick Grismer for his efforts in revitalizing the company’s menu, improving business margins, and strengthening organizational structure. Grismer noted that Dueñas successfully positioned the...

Vertical Cold Storage Opens 10th Facility in Kansas City

Vertical Cold Storage, in collaboration with Platform Ventures, a real estate investment firm, has officially launched its 10th facility, a state-of-the-art multi-distribution center in Kansas City.

The facility is strategically located at 14820 Cleveland Ave, Kansas City, MO, next to the Canadian Pacific Kansas City (CPKC) intermodal terminal and within 30 miles of key BNSF, Union Pacific, and Norfolk Southern rail terminals.

Spanning over 311,000 square feet, the new center is expected to create more than 100 full-time jobs. Equipped with...

Bojangles Kicks Off New Year With the Return of Chicken Rice Bowls and All-New, Bo-Berry Cobbler

Bojangles – the iconic, Carolina-born fast-food chain known for its bold flavors and crave-worthy recipes – today announced two limited-time products hitting menus this month, including the highly anticipated return of Chicken Rice Bowls and a new iteration of its legendary biscuit-inspired cobbler with a Bo-Berry Cobbler.

The hearty, satisfying Chicken Rice Bowls are back by popular demand, perfect for warming up during the chilly winter months and featuring a...

Jack in the Box Adds Two New Flavors to the Jack Wrap Lineup

Jack in the Box, Inc. is starting 2025 with a wrap-tastic bang by bringing new flavors to its wildly popular Jack Wraps nationwide. After a successful test drive of new flavors in select markets, the wraps are making a bold entrance to menus everywhere, proving once again that Jack in the Box knows exactly how to keep fans coming back for more.

Jack’s expertise and commitment to offering the best in portable, delicious snacks is clear. Unlike other restaurant chains that take years...

Fall in Love with Applebee’s in 2025 with The Really Big Meal Deal and Valentine’s Day Drink Specials

Applebee’s is the place to be in 2025 with its unbeatable Really Big Meal Deal for only $9.99, in addition to the return of its Smoocho Sips cocktails and mocktails! But that’s not all – things are heating up with Applebee’s NEW Sizzlin’ Caramel Apple Pie for $5.99 and NEW Hot Honey Chicken & Bacon Skillet.

Big in size, flavor, and value, Applebee’s is extending its Really Big Meal Deal for only $9.99, which includes...

$5 Bowls with Five Choices: KFC® Debuts Hot New Lineup of Flavorful Bowls

KFC is introducing a hot new lineup of five flavor-packed bowls for a limited time, including KFC icons like the Famous Bowl and saucy twists like the new Nashville Hot Loaded Fries Bowl. For a limited time, the fan-favorite Nashville Hot Sauce is back on KFC menus nationwide, while supplies last. Indulge your cravings with a hearty, warm, comforting bowl this winter for just $5 each, making your post-holiday wallet happy. The five flavor-packed $5 options...

Poultry Farmers Must Pass Biosecurity Audit to Qualify for Indemnity Payments Under New USDA Rule

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA)’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) announced an interim final rule that updates the conditions for poultry facilities to receive indemnity and compensation after testing positive for Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI). 

APHIS said that it will now require farmers to undergo a biosecurity audit before restocking their poultry following an HPAI detection and before receiving any indemnity payments. The decision was based on evidence that strong biosecurity measures remain the most effective strategy for combating HPAI...

ANALYSIS: Jumbo Boneless Chicken Breast Prices Unseasonably Robust as Popularity Grows

Quotations for jumbo boneless breast meat started this year closely following the 5-year average quotations...

EU Chicken Production to Grow in 2025

According to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), European Union (EU) chicken production is forecast to reach 11.5 million metric tonnes in 2025, marking a 1.3% year-on-year increase. Post-COVID market conditions in the EU have been favorable for more affordable animal proteins such as chicken and eggs. Despite challenges like food inflation and rising energy costs, EU chicken consumption is expected to remain strong in 2025, which will likely sustain overall chicken demand and support production.

Poland is expected to remain the EU's top chicken producer, accounting... 

Progress in Poultry Welfare: Examining the European Chicken Commitment

The European Union (EU) has taken significant steps toward improving animal welfare in poultry farming through landmark initiative: the European Chicken Commitment (ECC). The initiative reflects a growing recognition of ethical, environmental, and consumer concerns tied to modern farming practices.

The European Chicken Commitment (ECC) is a comprehensive, science-based welfare policy with six key points aimed at improving the lives of chickens raised for meat. It addresses critical issues, including the consequences of breeding for fast growth and high yield, housing conditions, stocking density, and the process...

Potential Impact of a Government Shutdown on USDA Reports

With a potential government shutdown looming, U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) data on livestock and meat markets, along with numerous other reports and statistics, may become unavailable until further notice.

As Congress races to reach an agreement before the midnight deadline to avoid a shutdown, industry stakeholders are increasingly aware of the importance of maintaining access to unbiased market intelligence to operate effectively. 

In the event of a shutdown, USDA food inspectors and federal animal care workers will remain on duty, but most other federal employees will not be at work...

ANALYSIS: U.S. Chicken Exports in October Trail at Five-Year Lows

The total volume of chicken exported in October was up from September, but just barely. This was especially evident in comparison to the 5-year average month-over-month (MoM) change. This October there was a 0.1% MoM increase in the total volume of chicken sold to international buyers in the U.S., a far cry from the 12.6% 5-year average.

Interestingly, the top three destinations pulled much larger volumes than they typically do in October, while the amount of production going to many of the...

The Retail Rundown: Robust Retail Spending This Holiday Season

Retail spending has been robust this year, with recent data released by the U.S. Census Bureau indicating strong retail sales as the holiday season kicked off in November.

According to the Census Bureau, overall retail sales in November rose 0.7 percent month-over-month (MOM) and increased 3.8 percent year-over-year (YOY) In comparison, October saw gains of 0.5 percent MOM and 2.9 percent YOY.

“Job and wage gains, modest inflation and a heathy balance sheet have led to solid holiday spending," said National Retail Federation Chief Economist Jack Kleinhenz...

Taco Bell Reimagines Chicken Nugget Experience with Tortilla Chip-Breaded Crispy Nuggets

In a world where chicken nugget loyalty runs deep, Taco Bell is daring to push the boundaries of innovation yet again with the introduction of Crispy Chicken Nuggets and a lineup of irresistible dipping sauces that's sure to challenge people's devotion to their typical favorites, available starting December 19, for a limited time and while supplies last. Entirely distinct, yet universally familiar, the tender all-white meat chicken bites are marinated in zesty jalapeño buttermilk flavor and breaded with a blend of breadcrumbs and crunchy tortilla chips to...

ANALYSIS: Is HPAI Impacting the U.S. Chicken Market?

In the past couple of years, different sectors of the poultry industry in the U.S. have had to deal with an ongoing outbreak of HPAI. The current surge began on February 8, 2022, when a commercial turkey flock in Indiana was confirmed to have contracted the virus. Since then, losses of commercial birds have been reported in thirty-four states and approximately 8.97 million commercial broiler breeders and broilers have been affected. While this is certainly a large number, it is only 0.03% of chicks placed.

Turkeys and layers have...

ANALYSIS: China’s Nov 2024 Meat Imports Break 15-Month Y-o-Y Decline Streak to 580,619 mt

China’s total meat imports, including variety meats rebounded to 580,619 metric tonnes (mt) in November 2024, ending a 15-month year-over-year decline streak, according to the latest preliminary data from the General Administration of Customs of the People's Republic of China. 

Imports were higher by 8.6% or 23,619 mt month-on-month (m-o-m) ahead of the winter peak season.  

Meat consumption typically increases ahead of the cooler season, with a notable rise in demand for...

The Retail Rundown: Seasonal Trends for Ribs vs. Hams

With Christmas just two weeks away, this week’s retail rundown takes a closer look at two traditional holiday centerpieces: rib roasts and hams. These festive favorites have followed differing paths in the wholesale markets this year, potentially influencing their retail performance in the lead-up to the year-end celebrations.

The wholesale rib market began its seasonal ascent in the third quarter, gaining traction in early August. From August 1 through December 10, prices surged by 42 percent, far surpassing the 5-year average increase of 17 percent for the same period...

Brazil’s Chicken Meat Export Quantities and Revenues Increase in November

Chicken meat exports from Brazil, including both fresh and processed products, totaled 465,100 tonnes in November, according to the Brazilian Animal Protein Association (ABPA). This represents a year-on-year increase of 23.2%. Export revenues also increased, reaching USD 893.4 million, up 32.1% compared to November 2023.

From January to November 2024, cumulative chicken meat exports rose by 3.7%, with a total of 4.845 million tonnes exported. Revenue for the same period reached USD 9.071 billion, marking a 1% improvement over the same timeframe in...

FSIS Issues Public Health Alert for Ready-To-Eat Frozen Chicken Products 

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) is issuing a public health alert for ready-to-eat (RTE) frozen chicken products that did not receive the benefit of import reinspection. A recall was not requested because the products are no longer available for purchase.

The following products subject to the public health alert are :

5-lb. cardboard box packages containing “yummy Dino Buddies Holiday NUGGETS Breaded nugget shaped white meat chicken patties” with a...

ANALYSIS: October Cold Storage Report, Chicken Inventories Continue to Deplete YoY

While more chicken was put up for several lines than was seasonally anticipated, cold storage inventories of nearly all lines with the exceptions of drumsticks and paws continued to be lower year-over-year (YoY). Additionally, total frozen holdings of chicken in the month of October were approximately 70.8 million pounds lower than the 5-year average. Considering that the year-to-date (YTD) total live weight is at the highest value ever recorded and October's live weights were at record-breaking levels...

CHI-CHI’S Restaurants Set for Comeback After Two Decades

Nearly 20 years after closing the last CHI-CHI’S™ restaurant location, the popular Mexican restaurant chain is set to make a comeback thanks to a new agreement with Hormel Foods, owner of CHI-CHI’S™ trademarks. The deal grants Michael McDermott, son of CHI-CHI’S™ founder, use of the CHI-CHI’S™ name on physical restaurant locations which are expected to open in 2025.

Michael McDermott is determined to honor his family’s legacy by combining the classic CHI-CHI’S™ restaurant experience with modern influence...

The Retail Rundown: Diving into December Deals

With the year-end holidays soon approaching, shoppers are eagerly diving into December deals. Retailers aim to capitalize on the season's spending surge with enticing offers on everything from festive foods to decadent desserts, decor, and other holiday items. 

Consumer spending on winter holidays is projected to hit a record-breaking $902 per person this year, according to a survey by the National Retail Federation (NRF) and Prosper Insights & Analytics. This figure marks a $25 increase from 2023 and surpasses the previous record set in 2019 by $16...

The Retail Rundown: Holiday Features in Full Display

In the final stretch to Thanksgiving, turkey ads dominate protein advertisements this week with 29 percent, up from 11.8 percent the week prior and surpassing pork's 26.4 percent. Seafood ads come in at 20.2 percent, followed by beef at 16.4 percent. Chicken takes 6 percent, while eggs still have less than one percent of retail buying opportunities.

Fresh whole turkeys account for half of all turkey promotions, with frozen turkeys making up 40.5 percent. While turkeys take center stage, the holiday season also lifts demand for cold-weather comfort foods and convenient...

ANALYSIS: Thanksgiving Bird Choices - Trends, Prices, and Consumer Preferences for Whole Chicken

Chicken isn’t what most people think of when they consider a Thanksgiving dinner. Nevertheless, there are consumers who will swap out a whole chicken for a whole turkey. A bird is a bird, after all. Some potential reasons include taste (some people prefer chicken), ease of handling, and serving size. Since chickens are smaller birds, they take less time to cook. It’s also much easier to find a pre-cooked rotisserie chicken than it is to find a pre-cooked whole turkey...  

PERDUE® Unveils the Chiclucken, the Ultimate Thanksgiving Feast for Chicken Lovers

Step aside turkeys. This Thanksgiving, chicken is the poultry of choice for those looking for something more memorable. PERDUE®, the number-one fresh chicken brand in the U.S., is introducing a new Thanksgiving recipe – the Chiclucken – that tests the limits of how many types of chicken can be enjoyed within a single holiday dish.

The Chiclucken features five layers of tender, juicy PERDUE chicken and pushes the limits of culinary arts. You may not remember the last holiday dish you had... 

The Retail Rundown: Turkey Takes the Spotlight

According to Circana data, fresh whole turkeys were featured at an average discounted price of $1.48 per pound last week, up from $1.27 per pound during the same period last year.

The most popular turkey sizes, 10–15 and 16–24 pounds, averaged $1.34 per pound, compared to $1.00–$1.10 per pound last year. These prices reflect pre-promotion rates and do not account for additional discounts or free turkey offers.

Whole turkeys are often used as loss leaders to increase holiday store...

Wahlburgers Debuts Limited-Time Triple Threat Slider Flight

Wahlburgers invites fans on a flavorful journey with its new Triple Threat Flight — a trio of sliders with a bold mix of tastes that will keep guests on their toes beginning Tuesday, Nov. 19, and through the Big Game.

Priced at $12.95*, the thrilling lineup includes the following sliders prepared for takeoff:

• Classic Meatball: A hearty meatball with provolone and spicy arrabbiata sauce for an unforgettable kick.
• BBQ Bacon: White cheddar, bacon, jalapeño, BBQ sauce and avocado spread to highlight the packed smoky richness guests... 

Kroger Reveals Customer Thanksgiving Favorites and Grocery Shopping Habits in Time for The Holidays

In preparation for Thanksgiving, The Kroger Co. surveyed customers to see how they plan to shop and what they plan to eat during the holidays this year.

"Thanksgiving is such a special time of year and we take pride in knowing exactly what is important to our customers during this holiday season," said Tom Duncan, Vice President, Head of Marketing at Kroger. "No matter how they choose to celebrate, we're happy to provide our customers with value on the items they need...

As Temperatures Drop Wendy's Spices Up Holiday Meal Planning with $3.99 Spicy Chicken Sandwich

WHAT:
The Queen of Spice just dropped a HOT deal. Now through December 29, Wendy's® fans can bring the heat to their tastebuds and not the family gathering with a $3.99 Spicy Chicken Sandwich deal, available every day with the offer exclusively in the Wendy's app.* Wendy's is home to the OG Spicy Chicken Sandwich – launched in 1995 – featuring juicy chicken breast marinated and breaded in a unique, fiery blend of peppers and spices to deliver...

ANALYSIS: September Chicken Exports Defy Trend with 1.8% MoM Growth

In the month of September, total chicken exports were up 1.8% month-over-month (MoM). This is interesting as the 5-year average MoM change is a decline of -4.2% from August to September.  The increased volumes resulted in September being the first month since February, when export levels were not at the lowest point since 2019. Part of the relatively large volumes of chicken exported were likely due to the value of chicken compared to other proteins in September...

7-Eleven, Inc. Unwraps Delicious Holiday Hot Food Deals to Satisfy Seasonal Cravings

Tis the season for sweet savings! 7-Eleven, Inc. is ringing in the holidays with irresistible deals that will delight taste buds and make celebrations merry and bright. From savings on pizza that the whole family can enjoy to mini chicken quesadillas and tacos that are perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in, customers can savor 7-Eleven's latest mouthwatering new items and discounts at participating 7-Eleven®, Speedway® and Stripes® stores, including...

The Retail Rundown: This Year's Thanksgiving Dinner May Cost Less 

This week’s protein promotions spotlight seafood, which makes up 33.1 percent of all ads, with pork following at 25.6 percent and beef at 24.3 percent. Chicken features come in at 13 percent, while turkey ads saw a small increase to 3.8 percent, up from 3.3 percent last week but below the 5 percent seen two weeks prior.

Frozen turkeys make up 27 percent of all turkey ads, up 25.7 percent last week, with prices ranging between $2.79 and $5.00 discounted last week.

According to the Expana Thanksgiving Dinner Index 2024...

Applebee’s Introduces NEW Really BIG Meal Deal

Enjoy the NEW Big Cluckin’ Chicken Sandwich or BIG Classic Bacon Cheeseburger, served with Classic Fries and a fountain drink for just $9.99; Available for both dine-in and To Go

Applebee’s is going BIG with the debut of its NEW Really BIG Meal Deal featuring the NEW Big Cluckin’ Chicken Sandwich and BIG Classic Bacon Cheeseburger served with Classic Fries and a fountain drink for only $9.99!* Big Taste, Big Flavor and Big Value, the Applebee’s NEW Really BIG Meal Deal is available now for...

ANALYSIS: Chicken Industry in Unseasonable Standoff Between Demand Patterns and Supplies

The chicken industry is engaged in a standoff between demand patterns and supplies. So far, the call for chicken this year has barely given up any ground, in a rather unseasonable manner.

The chicken index is a weighted average value composed of some of the lines in the chicken market including items like boneless breast meat and leg quarters. Since it is a formulation of several of the main components, it can be used as a rough indicator of market strength or weakness and seasonal trends...

Krispy Krunchy Chicken Announces Matt Testa as New COO

Krispy Krunchy Chicken®, one of the fastest-growing hot food concepts in the convenience store business, has named Matt Testa its Chief Operations Officer. The newest member of executive leadership will focus on strengthening the sales and operations teams for the brand which licenses over 3,000 locations.

“Matt brings us a proven track record of success and growth in c-stores. He has a visionary approach for leading teams to maximize impact, efficiency, and ease for operators,” said Jim Norberg, Chief...

The Retail Rundown: Holiday Countdown Rapidly Winds Down

With Thanksgiving just three weeks away, the holiday rush is fueling retail traffic as shoppers stock up on essentials. This week, turkey promotions account for 3.3 percent of all protein ads, down from 5 percent the previous week. The number of grocery chains featuring turkeys also declined, with 39 chains participating, compared to 49 chains a week earlier.

Despite fewer promotions, fresh whole turkey sales rose week-over-week, reaching $1.3 million last week, up from $909,368 the week prior, according to Circana...

A Tu Gusto, LLC Recalls Frozen Croquette Products Produced Without the Benefit of Inspection 

A Tu Gusto, LLC, a Lehigh Acres, Fla. firm, is recalling approximately 7,630 pounds of frozen meat and poultry croquette products that were produced without the benefit of federal inspection and may contain undeclared allergens, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today. The product contains soy, sesame seed and wheat, known allergens, which are not declared on the product label.

The frozen meat and poultry items were produced between April and October of 2024... 

The Retail Rundown: Late-Season Push for Grilling Cuts

As October ends, beef and seafood promotions are neck and neck, each occupying about 25 percent of total advertising space. During the final week of "Pork-tober, pork features account for 20.8 percent of buying opportunities, closely followed by chicken at 20.6 percent.

Though the shift from grilling cuts to roasts has been in motion for a few weeks, a forecast of record warmth in parts of the central and eastern U.S. this week offers a last chance for backyard cooking before winter sets in.

This could spur late-season promotions...

The Retail Rundown: Tuning in to Turkey

Retail promotions for seafood continue to dominate the protein category this week, capturing nearly a third of ad circular space (32 percent). Beef and pork follow, taking up 23 percent and 21.3 percent, respectively. Chicken is up slightly from the previous week at 16 percent. Egg ads held steady at about 3 percent.

Several items were featured at lower prices compared to 2023 last week, with chicken leg quarters averaging $1.55 per pound, 5 cents cheaper than last year. Fresh pork loin prices were down by 2 percent...

The Retail Rundown: Eggs Rule the Roost During Baking Season 

As October reaches its midpoint, many homes are filled with the irresistible aromas of freshly baked goods, marking the onset of the holiday baking season.

This seasonal shift benefits the egg case as eggs find their way into breads, cookies, pastries, pies, and more. Also, more consumers are reaching for hot breakfasts as the weather turns colder, which further boosts egg demand.

Data from Circana shows that the average retail feature price for large, white Grade A eggs averaged $3.72 per dozen last week...

ANALYSIS: Chicken Export Volumes in August

Total chicken exports were up 3.5% from July to August, compared to a 5-year average month-over-month (MoM) change of 4.6%. Of the twenty countries listed in the USDA’s monthly import/export report, thirteen of them had increased MoM export volumes in August, but only seven of them were up year-over-year (YoY). This aligns with the year-long trend of lower export volumes in which the current year-to-date (YTD) value of 4.4 billion lbs. is -8.6% lower YoY and is...

ANALYSIS: Chicken Cold Storage Holdings in August

Despite a slight retreat in demand for several domestic lines during August, frozen inventory remained well below last year’s level, fueled in part by an active call from the export arena. Now, in October, these factors are starting to resurface and play a major role in current market dynamics. Total chicken in frozen inventory was down -9.0% year-over-year (YoY), which positions August’s inventory at the third lowest seasonal level over the past ten years. All individual categories, with the exceptions of drums and paws, were also down on a YoY basis...

The Retail Rundown:  Port Strike Sends Shockwaves Throughout Supply Chain 

The strike at East and Gulf Coast ports officially began once the calendar turned to October, following unsuccessful contract negotiations between the International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA) and the United States Maritime Alliance (USMX).

The strike's impact is being felt throughout the supply chain, causing significant disruptions in the flow of goods ahead of the rapidly approaching holiday season. 

In a statement released on Tuesday, USMX stated that its current offer includes a nearly 50% wage increase. In response, ILA said it has rejected USX's offer "because it fails to address...

Hurricane Helene Intensifies U.S. Agriculture Disruptions As Port Strike Officially Starts

Hurricane Helene, a powerful Category 4 storm, made landfall in Florida's Big Bend region on September 26, 2024. The storm caused widespread destruction across the southeastern U.S., with the death toll approaching 125 as of this writing. 

Its damaging winds, storm surge, and flooding led to power outages and infrastructure damage in Florida, Georgia, Tennessee, and the Carolinas–with the Carolinas seemingly suffering the greatest impacts. Parts of North Carolina are submerged under water, where roads have been washed out and properties have been flattened. As of October 1...

The Retail Rundown: Onwards to October

With October nearing, the shift in retail meat features from grilling cuts to roasts is picking up pace. More households are utilizing their ovens and crockpots, making it prime time for hearty ingredients like chuck roasts and pork shoulders.

Still, warmer weather lingers in some regions. For those with favorable grilling conditions, shoppers may find deals on items like steaks, ribs, and pork chops as retailers work to move any extra inventory. 

This week’s retail buying opportunities show seafood continuing to lead, making up 26.9% of protein advertisements, followed by pork at 24.7%, beef at 21.2%...

ANALYSIS: Chicken Production Outlook for Q4

The USDA is forecasting a year-over-year (YoY) decrease in beef and turkey production for Q4 of this year and a YoY increase in production of pork and chicken. Ready-to-cook (RTC) broiler production is expected to increase by 3.57% YoY. Beginning ten weeks prior to the outset of Q4 to the most current data, egg sets have been up by 2.62% to 5.04%. Increases in broiler chick placements from the middle of August, seven weeks prior to the start of Q4, are slightly less dramatic with values ranging