US Expands Forced-Labor Blacklist on China; Tomato and Salmon Producers Targeted

On July 31, the US Department of Homeland Security issued new barriers for trade with China by expanding the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act (UFLPA) Entity List by adding 43 companies. The list expansion marks the largest single increase since the law took effect. So, starting August 3, trade will be blocked from certain Chinese companies making tomatoes, cotton, nuts, salmon, aluminum foil, battery materials, and pharmaceuticals. 

While the action is tariff-adjacent due to the forced labor aspect, this is more of a company and region-specific trade embargo...

New Guidelines Spark a Protein-Driven Food Revolution in Foodservice

New dietary guidelines have now been out for a week.

In the update, Americans are encouraged to include protein foods at every meal, focusing on high-quality, nutrient-dense sources. The serving goals outlined in this report are 1.2–1.6 grams (approximately 0.042–0.056 ounces) of protein per kilogram of body weight per day.

"Pretty interesting shift toward protein overall. Under the previous 0.8 g/kg guidelines, intake would have been roughly 69 g/day, while the updated guidance implies about a +34 to...

Campbell’s Acquisition of La Regina Announced Alongside Earnings

On December 9, The Campbell’s Company officials announced plans to acquire a majority stake in an Italian tomato processor called La Regina Di San Marzano, according to the company’s latest earnings report. By the second half of 2026, the acquisition will be complete after two payments toward the total $286 million valuation, according to Campbell's leaders. 

The company entered into definitive agreements to acquire a 49% interest in La Regina, the producer of Rao’s tomato-based pasta sauces...

EU Updates Agricultural Import Procedures for Fruits and Vegetables

The European Commission has adopted Regulation (EU) 2025/2185. The measure amends Implementing Regulation (EU) 2017/892. It simplifies procedures for fruit and vegetable imports. It also adjusts the calculation of standard import values. And it updates additional import duties. It was signed by President Ursula von der Leyen on September 10, 2025.

Under the new rules, standard import values are fixed weekly. Every Tuesday the Commission will set values for each product and origin. The figure equals the weighted average price notified by member states....

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

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

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

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