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What the Potential Government Shutdown May Mean for Agricultural Price Reporting
A potential government shutdown is just days away, raising concerns among those who depend on critical data to make timely market assessments and business decisions. A shutdown will begin on October 1 at 12:01 a.m., the start of the federal fiscal year, if Congress does not pass a funding plan that President Biden signs into law.
The Senate is currently preparing its own bipartisan plan for a stopgap measure to keep offices funded after Saturday’s deadline. Failure to reach an agreement on a continuing resolution (CR) to keep the federal...
July Pork Exports Continue Above Year-Ago; Slow Month for Beef Exports
Building on a robust first-half performance, July exports of U.S. pork continued to outpace year-ago levels, according to data released by USDA and compiled by USMEF. Beef exports took a step back in July, posting the lowest volume since January, but export value per head of fed slaughter again exceeded $400.
July pork exports totaled 219,014 metric tons (mt), up 5% year-over-year, while export value increased 1% to $628.7 million. Through the first seven months of 2023, pork exports were 13% above...
Gov. Pritzker Celebrates Groundbreaking of New Saline River Farms Facility
With support from the state's EDGE program and a USDA grant, Saline River Farms is investing $34.5 million to repair and expand its existing 60,000 square foot facility
Governor JB Pritzker and Saline River Farms today joined local leaders and partners to break ground on Saline River Farms' new state-of-the-art USDA meat processing facility. Supported by the Economic Development for a Growing Economy Tax Credit (EDGE) program and a $1.5 million grant through the Meat & Poultry Supply Chain Capital Grant Program along with...
USDA Makes $123 Million in Grants Available for Meat and Poultry Processors
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Development, partnering with the New Hampshire Community Loan Fund, has made $123 million in grants available through the Meat and Poultry Processing Expansion Program (MPPEP) Phase 2.
The first round of the Meat and Poultry Processing Expansion Program began in November 2022, when the Biden-Harris Administration invested $73 million in 21 grant projects.
MPPEP provides grants to help eligible processors expand their processing capacity. USDA Rural Development designed the MPPEP "to encourage competition and sustainable growth in...
USDA, USTR Name New Agricultural Trade Advisors
U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Thomas Vilsack and U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai today announced the appointment of 130 new private-sector representatives to serve on seven agricultural trade advisory committees that represent the diversity of U.S. agriculture. The new group of advisors will join the 70 existing committee members whose terms have not expired.
Complete rosters of the committees, including the 130 new appointees and 70 members already serving, are available at:
- Agricultural Policy Advisory Committee
- Agricultural Technical Advisory Committee for Trade in Animals and Animal Products
- Agricultural Technical...
Outstanding First Half for U.S. Pork Exports; Beef Exports Below Record Pace of 2022
U.S. pork exports concluded an excellent first half with another strong performance in June, according to data released by USDA and compiled by the U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF). While well below the record pace established in 2022, June beef exports topped $900 million in value, pushing first-half export value to nearly $5 billion.
June pork exports totaled 245,964 metric tons (mt), up 12% from a year ago, while export value climbed 6% to $691.4 million. Through the...
Instacart Becomes First Grocery Marketplace to Accept Snap Online in All 50 States
Instacart, the leading grocery technology company in North America, today announced that Electronic Benefits Transfer for Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (EBT SNAP) can now be used to buy groceries online via Instacart in every state, making Instacart the first and only online grocery marketplace to accept SNAP in all 50 states and Washington D.C. The company recently launched online SNAP acceptance in Alaska with Albertsons Companies banner Safeway, completing the commitment Instacart made in 2022 as part of the launch of its Instacart Health initiative and the...
FSIS Issues Public Health Alert for Fresh Salads and Wraps with Meat and Poultry
The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) is issuing a public health alert due to concerns that ready-to-eat (RTE) salads and wraps with meat and poultry may contain contaminated lettuce. The lettuce, which is regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), may be contaminated with deer feces. FSIS is issuing this public health alert to ensure that consumers are aware that this product should not be consumed.
The RTE salad and wrap products were produced on August 1, 2023...
USDA Accepting Applications for Agribusiness Trade Mission to Southeast Asia
The U.S. Department of Agriculture Under Secretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs Alexis Taylor will lead an agribusiness trade mission to Malaysia and Singapore on Oct. 30-Nov. 3. USDA's Foreign Agricultural Service is now accepting applications from U.S. exporters who wish to participate in the trade mission.
“Malaysia and Singapore are important markets in our efforts to diversify prospects for U.S. food and agricultural exports in Southeast Asia. These markets provide both a source of stability for American...
USDA FNS Certifies Wynshop for SNAP/EBT Payments Online
Wynshop, the leading provider of digital commerce and fulfillment solutions for local store-based retailers, announced today that it is now a USDA Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) approved SNAP/EBT payments processing partner, through Aurus. Wynshop can now facilitate expedited processing of FNS procedures for any retailers who wish to offer EBT benefits through Wynshop.
The USDA's Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) provides more than 42 million economically disadvantaged Americans with food subsidies that they can redeem at grocery stores. FNS's electronic benefits transfer system (EBT)...
Mulan Dumpling, LLC, Recalls Frozen Meat and Poultry Dumpling Products
Mulan Dumpling, LLC, a Hyattsville, Md. establishment, is recalling approximately 1,560 pounds of frozen meat and poultry dumpling products that were produced without the benefit of federal inspection, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today.
Suya Slice LLC, Recalls Ready-to-Eat Beef Products Produced Without Benefit of Inspection
Suya Slice, LLC, a Memphis, Tenn. establishment, is recalling approximately 445 pounds of ready-to-eat beef products that were produced without the benefit of federal inspection, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today.
The products subject to recall do not bear the USDA...
New Investments to Improve Monitoring and Reporting of Greenhouse Gas Emissions
Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack today announced the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) will invest $300 million through President Biden’s Investing in America agenda to improve measurement, monitoring, reporting and verification of greenhouse gas emissions and carbon sequestration in climate-smart agriculture and forestry. The new investments, made possible by the Inflation Reduction Act, will advance priorities set by the broader Federal Strategy to Advance Greenhouse Gas Measurement and Monitoring for the Agriculture and Forest Sectors (PDF, 813 KB), which was...
Perdue Premium Meat Company, Inc. Recalls Brookside Brand Fully Cooked Beef Wiener Products
Perdue Premium Meat Company, Inc., doing business as Alexander & Hornung, a Saint Clair Shores, Mich., establishment, is recalling approximately 3,204 pounds of fully cooked beef wiener products due to misbranding and undeclared allergens, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today. The product may actually contain smoked sausage, which contains milk, a known allergen, which is not declared on the wiener product label.
Panamerican Foods, LLC Recalls Ineligible Pork and Beef Bean Stew Products Imported from Brazil
Panamerican Foods, LLC, a distributor and importer of record located in Kearny, N.J., is recalling approximately 4,978 pounds of the pork and beef bean stew products that were imported from an establishment in Brazil that is not eligible to export meat products to the United States, U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today.
The products subject to recall bear establishment number “76 S.I.F.” on the...
House of Raeford Recalls Foster Farms Brand Mini Chicken Corn Dog Products Due to Possible Spoilage
House of Raeford, a Nesmith, S.C., establishment, is recalling approximately 76,961 pounds of corn dog products due to possible spoilage, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today.
The product subject to recall bears the establishment number “P- 9136” printed on the package. These items were shipped to retail locations nationwide.
The problem was discovered after the firm notified FSIS that it received consumer complaints that the product had an odor, off appearance, and...
USDA Efforts Lift Ban on U.S. Poultry Exports to Colombia
Quick action by FAS, USDA’s Animal & Plant Health Inspection Service, and the Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR) has resolved an issue that temporarily stopped U.S. poultry product exports to Colombia, our 10th largest market for these products.
Colombia’s Ministry of Agriculture instructed all Colombian ports to deny import permits to any poultry products beginning June 1 on concerns of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI). Roughly $1.1 million in U.S. exports were impacted by the ban between June 3 and June 8...
New X9 Forum, Open to All, Will Determine Best Path To Modernize USDA SNAP/Food Stamp Cards
The Accredited Standards Committee X9 Inc. (X9) today announced that it has kicked off a new Industry Forum to investigate how best to modernize the EBT cards for the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), formerly known as food stamps. X9 develops and maintains the ANSI standard that governs the processing of SNAP cards and is seeking participants for the new initiative. Participation in an X9 industry forum does not require a paid X9 membership.The purpose of this...
Senators Coons, Wicker to Introduce Legislation to Increase Reimbursement During HPAI Outbreak
U.S. Senators Chris Coons (D-Del.) and Roger Wicker (R-Miss.) announced the Healthy Poultry Assistance and Indemnification (HPAI) Act alongside 11 of their Senate colleagues. This bipartisan bill would expand the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) compensation program to all poultry growers and layer operations within a highly pathogenic avian influenza control area, rather than only those whose flocks are infected.
“Delaware has the largest per capita chicken industry in the country, and Delaware’s independent family farmers and poultry...
Old Bulls Bring New Genetic Benefits To Light
Animal genetics plays a crucial role in modern agriculture, enhancing food sustainability, and animal adaptation to a changing climate. Over the years, animal breeders have underlined the significance of genetics in enhancing animal productivity. Preserving diverse sources of animal germplasm is crucial to maintaining genetic diversity, which provides economic sustainability and food security in the face of new diseases and climate change, and advances our knowledge of animal genetics and genomics.
USDA's Agricultural Research Service's National Animal Germplasm Program (NAGP) has collected and preserved more than one million samples from over...
USDA Issues Final Rule Regarding Preserving Trust Benefits Under the Packers and Stockyards Act
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) published a notice in the Federal Register on June 23, 2023, implementing revisions to regulations under the Packers and Stockyards Act (Act). These revisions implement the Livestock Dealer Statutory Trust, which provides financial protection for cash sellers of livestock. These updated regulations are part of USDA’s efforts to support transparency throughout the supply chain and ensure fair prices for farmers and livestock producers. The revisions go into effect on July 24, 2023.
Congress amended the Act providing for a statutory...
Hog Report Expected to Show 0.7% Decrease in Total Herd vs Year Prior
The USDA’s quarterly hogs and pigs report, scheduled for release Thursday afternoon, is expected to show a decrease in the U.S. swine herd versus June 2022.
Analysts on average predict the all hogs and pigs number as of June 1 to be down 0.7% from a year ago.
The average of the estimates for all hogs and pigs would project 72.016 million head, compared with 72.524 million a year ago.
The survey showed on average the number of females kept for breeding at 0.7% below a year ago...
Distribuidora El Paisano Import, LLC, Recalls Ineligible Ready-To-Eat Pork Rind Product
Distribuidora El Paisano Import, LLC, a distributor and the importer of record located in Providence, R.I., is recalling approximately 1,715 pounds of imported ready-to-eat pork rind product that was imported from Guatemala, a country ineligible to export meat products to the United States, the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today.
5.3 oz. (150g) foil pouch packages containing "TorTrix Con Chicharrón."The product subject to recall does not bear an establishment number nor a USDA mark of inspection...
BCI Foods Inc. Recalls Chicken Noodle Soup Products Produced without Benefit of Import Reinspection
BCI Foods Inc., the importer of record located in Saint-Hyacinthe, Quebec, Canada, is recalling approximately 13,561 pounds of chicken noodle soup products that were not presented for import reinspection into the United States, the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today.
Conagra Brands, Inc., Recalls Frozen Beef Shepherd’s Pie Products
Conagra Brands, Inc., a Russellville, Ark. establishment, is recalling approximately 2,717 pounds of frozen beef shepherd’s pie products that may be contaminated with extraneous materials, specifically clear, flexible plastic, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today.
4.31 lbs. cases of “MC Beef Shepherd’s Pie” with lot code 5006306020, BEST BY FEB 24 2024 and case code 2113100032, containing six 11.5 oz. carton packages of "Marie Callender’s BEEF SHEPHERD’S PIE”
The products subject to recall bear establishment number “EST 233” next to the USDA mark of...
USDA Launches Effort to Strengthen Substantiation of Animal-Raising Claims
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced today that it is implementing a multi-step effort aimed at strengthening the substantiation of animal-raising claims. This action builds on the significant work USDA has already undertaken to protect consumers from false and misleading labels and to implement President Biden’s Executive Order on Promoting Competition in the American economy.
“Consumers should be able to trust that the label claims they see on products bearing the USDA mark of inspection are truthful and accurate,” said Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack. “USDA is taking...
U.S. Department of Agriculture Announces Key Staff Appointments
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) today announced the names of individuals who will hold senior staff positions in Washington, D.C.
Rudy Soto has been appointed Acting Director of External and Intergovernmental Affairs
Rudy Soto has served as USDA’s Rural Development State Director for Idaho since January 2021. In this role, Soto has been instrumental in promoting economic development, increasing access to healthcare, and improving infrastructure in Idaho’s rural communities. Before that, Soto served as a legislative staffer in the U.S. House of Representatives, covering energy, environment, agriculture, and tribal affairs...
DEKA Trading Corp. Recalls Ineligible Ready-To-Eat Pork Rind Products Imported from Guatemala
DEKA Trading Corp., the importer of record located in Miami, Fla., is recalling approximately 13,771 pounds of imported ready-to-eat pork rind products. The products were imported from Guatemala, a country ineligible to export meat products to the United States, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today.
The following products are subject to recall, regardless of the product date:
- 5.3 oz. (150g) foil pouch packages containing “TorTrix Con Chicharrón...
J.T.M. Provisions Company Recalls Frozen Beef Chili Products Due To Possible Contamination
J.T.M. Provisions Company, a Harrison, Ohio establishment, is recalling approximately 22,530 pounds of frozen, ready-to-eat beef chili with beans products that may be contaminated with extraneous materials, specifically white plastic, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today.
The frozen, ready-to-eat beef chili with beans items were produced on February 27, 2023. The following products are subject to recall:
- 30-lb. case of “CHILI WITH BEANS” containing six 5-lb. boilable bags of “CP5309 CHILI WITH BEANS” with...
E.N.A. Meat Packing Inc. Recalls Frozen, Raw Lamb Products Imported Without Benefit of Reinspection
E.N.A. Meat Packing Inc, the importer of record located in Paterson, N.J., is recalling approximately 39,947 pounds of frozen, raw lamb products that were imported without the benefit of import reinspection, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today.
The frozen, raw lamb items were produced on Feb. 22 through March 13, 2023. The following products are subject to recall:
- Cartons weighing approximately 40-lb., containing raw frozen pieces of “Simunovic S.A. Frozen Bone in Lamb Leg ABO” produced by...
Great Plains Drought Hits Hay Crops
The market for hay is overshadowed by wheat and other crops hit by a drought in the Great Plains, but it can have a similar impact on food prices.
Texas, Oklahoma and Kansas are typically among the top 10 hay-producing states, according to U.S. Agriculture Department data, and swaths of each state are experiencing extreme drought, according to the National Drought Mitigation Center, a project from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, the USDA and other partners.
This year's average seasonal price for all types of alfalfa and grass hay...
Mitten Gourmet, LLC, Recalls Ready-to-Eat Pork Rind Products Produced without Benefit of Inspection
Mitten Gourmet, LLC, a Freeland, Michigan establishment, is recalling approximately 1,137 pounds of ready-to-eat pork rind products that were produced without the benefit of federal inspection, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today.
The pork rind products of various flavors were produced on various dates from September 9, 2021, through May 5, 2023. The following products are subject to recall [view labels]:
Eastern Meat Solutions, Inc. Recalls Raw, Boneless Pork Products Imported without Benefit of Import
Eastern Meat Solutions, Inc., the importer of record located in Ontario, Canada, is recalling approximately 40,763 pounds of raw, boneless pork products that were not presented for import reinspection into the United States, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today.
The raw, boneless pork products were imported from Canada, and further processed by another company into barbeque pork products. The following products are subject to recall:
Urner Barry Releases May Pulse Protein Report
As of May 10, Ethiopia remains in the top spot of the dried pea export value chart, with a 55% increase in value year-over-year (YoY) noted. Cameroon holds the fifth spot, with a 71% decrease in value. Canada is holding the number one spot for dried lentils with a 1% decrease and Mexico holds the number three position with...
USDA Announces Finalists for Twelve New USDA Regional Food Business Centers
Today the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced the creation of 12 new USDA Regional Food Business Centers that will provide national coverage coordination, technical assistance, and capacity building to help farmers, ranchers, and other food businesses access new markets and navigate federal, state, and local resources, thereby closing the gaps to success. In addition, USDA also announced a $420 million Resilient Food Systems Infrastructure Program (RFSI) to fund innovative projects designed invest in processing and distribution capacity to build resilience across the middle of the supply chain...
FSIS Issues Public Health Alert for Frozen Meatloaf Entree Products
FSIS Issues Public Health Alert for Frozen Meatloaf Entree Products Due to Misbranding and Undeclared Allergens
The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) is issuing a public health alert due to concerns that frozen ready-to-cook meatloaf entrée products may contain undeclared milk, a known allergen. These entrees are removed from their master carton and delivered to consumers in ready to prepare trays that do not bear an ingredient statement. While egg, soy, and wheat are declared in the ingredient list that appears on the...
USDA Announces $45 Million Funding Opportunity to Support Underserved and Veteran Farmers
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) today announced approximately $45 million available to organizations that help underserved and veteran farmers, ranchers, and foresters own and operate successful farms. Funding is made through USDA’s Outreach and Assistance for Socially Disadvantaged Farmers and Ranchers and Veteran Farmers and Ranchers Program, also known as the 2501 Program. This program is administered by the USDA Office of Partnerships and Public Engagement (OPPE).
“By supporting organizations that work with veterans and underserved groups...
NCC Expresses Grave Concerns with New FSIS Salmonella Regulation
The National Chicken Council today released the following statement in response to FSIS announcing its plans to declare Salmonella an adulterant in frozen, raw, breaded, stuffed, chicken products. Attributable to NCC President Mike Brown.
“NCC is gravely concerned that the precedent set by this abrupt shift in longstanding policy has the potential to shutter processing plants, cost jobs, and take safe food and convenient products off shelves, without moving the needle on public health.
“As these products often appear ready to eat, but contain raw chicken, we recognize their nature raises...
FSIS Issues Public Health Alert for Ready-to-Eat Meat Soup Products Due to Possible Contamination
The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) is issuing a public health alert due to concerns that ready-to-eat meat soup products may have been prepared, packed, or held under insanitary conditions, which may result in the product spoiling prematurely. FSIS is issuing this public health alert to ensure that consumers are aware that these products should not be consumed. A recall was not requested because the products are no longer available for purchase.
The following products are subject...
USDA Announces $2.29 Million in Farm Bill Funding to Protect Animal Health
The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) is awarding $2.29 million through the National Animal Health Laboratory Network (NAHLN) Farm Bill program to advance APHIS’ animal health preparedness. The 2018 Farm Bill provided funding for this program as part of an overall strategy to prevent animal pests and diseases from entering the United States and reduce the spread and impact of potential disease incursions.
“These Farm Bill funding awards will strengthen our ability to carry out...
USDA Proposes Declaring Salmonella an Adulterant in Breaded Stuffed Raw Chicken Products
The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) released today a proposed determination to declare Salmonella an adulterant in breaded stuffed raw chicken products when they exceed a very low level of Salmonella contamination. This announcement is a significant first step that builds on FSIS’ proposed regulatory framework to reduce Salmonella infections linked to poultry products, released in October 2022.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that Salmonella bacteria cause approximately 1.35 million human infections and 26,500 hospitalizations...
USDA Announces New National Institute of Food and Agriculture Director
Today, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced the appointment of Manjit K. Misra as the new Director of the National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA). The NIFA Director leads the agency’s work in advancing agricultural research, education, and extension to solve societal challenges. Dr. Misra will start his new role on Monday, May 8, 2023.
“Dr. Misra is an esteemed scientist and educator whose devotion to studying and sharing his knowledge of seeds with the world will benefit society and inspire...
USDA Announces Funding Availability to Expand Meat and Poultry Processing
Today, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced the availability of up to $125 million through two new grant programs that will create more options for meat and poultry farmers by investing in independent, local meat and poultry processing projects that increase competition and enhance the resiliency of the food supply chain.
These new grant programs, the Indigenous Animals Harvesting and Meat Processing Grant Program and the Local Meat Capacity Grant Program, are part of the broader $1 billion American Rescue Plan investment by the ...
Urner Barry Releases April Soy & Wheat Report
The outlook for 2022/23 U.S. wheat in April is for slightly higher supplies, reduced domestic use, unchanged exports, and increased ending stocks. Supplies are raised by 5 million bushels on higher imports, based on...
Urner Barry Releases April Pulse Protein Report
As of April 12, Ethiopia remains in the top spot of the dried pea export value chart, with a 37% decrease in value year-over-year (YoY) noted. Cameroon holds the fifth spot, with a 79% decrease in value. Canada is holding the number one spot for...
FSIS Issues Public Health Alert for Fresh Salads With Chicken and Ham; FDA Issues Recall
The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) is issuing a public health alert for ready-to-eat (RTE) fresh salad products with chicken and ham that contain Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulated lettuce that has been recalled for possible Listeria monocytogenes (Lm) contamination.
FSIS is issuing this public health alert to ensure that consumers are aware that this product should not be consumed.
The fresh salads with chicken and ham were produced on various dates from March 10, 2023...
USDA, SBA, and FDIC Partner to Foster Economic Growth for Small Businesses, Farmers, and Ranchers in Southern States
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), in partnership with the Small Business Administration (SBA) and the Federal Depository Insurance Corporation (FDIC), is hosting a series of regional economic development workshops on the “Path to Prosperity” in Mississippi, Kentucky, and Georgia to provide small businesses, including farmers and ranchers, with the resources and tools they need to grow.
“These independent businesses, in rural communities, are the cornerstone of American life but many of them lack ...
USDA’s Economic Research Service Assesses Food-Away-from-Home Landscape in Rural Communities
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA)’s Economic Research Service (ERS) released a report that breaks down the food-away-from-home (FAFH) landscape.
FAFH spending has grown in recent years and may sometimes surpass food-at-home spending. The issue the ERS wanted to dive into was focused on food access challenges those in rural communities have. Often, residents in these areas must travel long distances to access restaurants or have very limited options nearby.
“As food access and landscapes interact with overall economies...
USDA Announces Additional Assistance for Distressed Farmers Facing Financial Risk
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) today announced that beginning in April it will provide approximately $123 million in additional, automatic financial assistance for qualifying farm loan program borrowers who are facing financial risk, as part of the $3.1 billion to help distressed farm loan borrowers that was provided through Section 22006 of the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA). The announcement builds on financial assistance offered to borrowers through the same program in October 2022.
The IRA directed USDA to expedite assistance to distressed borrowers of direct or guaranteed...
USDA Assists Farmers, Ranchers and Communities Affected by Tornado in Mississippi
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) today announced that assistance is available for communities and agricultural producers affected by the severe weather and tornado that tore through Mississippi on March 25.
“My thoughts and prayers are with all who have lost loved ones in the terrible tornadoes in Mississippi and with the communities who must rebuild their homes and businesses,” said Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack. “Alongside our federal partners, USDA is ready to provide assistance to those impacted by these storms.”
Food safety guidance...
March 1 US Hog Herd Expected Up 0.3% on Year
Market analysts and agricultural economists participating in Urner Barry’s survey ahead of the quarterly hogs and pigs report predict on average the U.S. swine herd as of March 1 to be up 0.3% from a year ago.
The report is scheduled for release Thursday afternoon.
The breeding herd is expected to be up 0.6% from a year ago. The range of the guesses for the breeding herd was from 100.0% to 101.0% of a year ago.
Analysts predict on average the report to show that producers farrowed about 0.7% more sows during...
Kelley Foods Recalls Smoked Sausage Product Due to Misbranding, Undeclared Allergen
Kelley Foods, an Elba, Ala. establishment, is recalling approximately 1,455 pounds of smoked baby rope sausage due to misbranding and an undeclared allergen, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today. The product contains cheese, thereby milk, a known allergen, which is not declared on the product label.
The fully cooked smoked baby rope sausage item was produced on Jan. 10, 2023. The following product is subject to recall:
- 12-oz. vacuum-packed packages containing “KELLEY Naturally Hardwood Smoked JALAPEÑO...
Elkhorn Valley Packing Recalls Boneless Beef Chuck Product Due to Possible E. coli Contamination
Elkhorn Valley Packing, a Harper, Kan. establishment, is recalling approximately 3,436 pounds of boneless beef chuck product that may be contaminated with Shiga toxin-producing E. coli (STEC) O103, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today.
The boneless beef chuck items were packed on Feb. 16, 2023. The following product is subject to recall:
- Various weights corrugated boxes containing “Elkhorn Valley Pride Angus Beef 61226 BEEF CHUCK 2PC BNLS; Packed on 2/16/23...
The U.S. Department of Agriculture today announced the names of individuals who will hold senior staff positions in Washington, D.C.
Kenneth Walker, Assistant Chief for the Natural Resources Conservation Service
Walker comes to USDA from the Mississippi House of Representatives, District 27. As a State Representative, Walker served as Vice Chair on the Workforce Development Committee and Member of the Agriculture, Water and Conservation, Education, Energy, and Forestry Committees. As a lifelong farmer, Walker grew up on a farm in Leake County...
Legislation Introduced Allowing State-Inspected Meat, Poultry Products to be Sold Across State Lines
U.S. Senators Angus King (I-Maine) and Mike Rounds (R-SD) have introduced the New Markets for State-Inspected Meat and Poultry Act. This bipartisan legislation would allow meat and poultry products that pass state inspections to be sold across state lines. Currently, meat products must be processed at one of the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) certified facilities. If that same product is processed at a state-inspected facility, which already meet federal guidelines, it is prohibited from interstate sale-creating unnecessary barriers for businesses...
USDA Announces New Investments in School Meals to Support Healthy Kids
Today, U.S. Department of Agriculture announced several actions to expand support for and access to the school meal programs, including awarding $50 million in grants that will increase collaboration between schools, food producers and suppliers, and other partners to develop nutritious, appetizing school meals for kids. The department also announced $10 million in grants for schools to expand nutrition education, as well as a proposed regulatory change to give more schools the option to provide healthy school meals to all students at no cost...
WOW Frozen Food LLC Recalls Frozen Meat and Poultry Sfihas Products
WOW Frozen Food LLC, a Plantation, Fla. establishment, is recalling approximately 488 pounds of meat and poultry sfihas products that were produced without the benefit of federal inspection, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today.
The frozen, not-ready-to-eat sfihas items were produced on various dates since October 2022. The following products are subject to recall:
- 260-g. pouch bag containing 5 pieces of “WOW SFIHAS CALABRESA Brazilian Kielbasa.”- 260-g. pouch bag containing 5 pieces of “WOW SFIHAS QUEIJO BACON...
Hoyo, SBC Recalls Frozen, Ready-To-Eat Beef Sambusa Product
Hoyo, SBC, a Bloomington, Minn. establishment, is recalling approximately 1,046 pounds of ready-to-eat beef sambusa products that may be contaminated with extraneous materials, specifically thin, wire-like metal, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today.
The frozen, ready-to-eat beef sambusa items were produced on Dec. 30, 2022, and Feb. 21, 2023. The following product is subject to recall:
- Bulk boxes containing 75 pieces of “HOYO Beef Sambusa Ground Beef Pastry with Onions and Spices” and lot code N341-S...
Urner Barry Releases March Soy & Wheat Report
The 2022/23 U.S. wheat supply and demand outlook unchanged from February. The projected season-average farm price remains at $9.00 per bushel. The January 2023 farm price reported in the USDA, National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS) Agricultural Prices publication was $8.82 per bushel, down from $8.98 in...
USDA Announces More Than $43M Investment in Meat and Poultry Processing Research, Expansion and More
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced today an investment of more than $43 million in meat and poultry processing research, innovation and expansion in support of its ongoing efforts to transform the food system at every stage along the supply chain. This investment is funded through the American Rescue Plan and the Agriculture and Food Research Initiative (AFRI).
As part of this total investment, the University of Arkansas was awarded a $5 million grant from the AFRI Center of Excellence...
Malcom A. Shorter has been appointed to serve as Acting Assistant Secretary for Administration
Shorter was reappointed as the Deputy Assistant Secretary for Administration at USDA in June 2021. He previously served as the Acting Assistant Secretary for Administration from January 2017 to August 2017, as the Deputy Assistant Secretary for Administration from June 2013 to January 2017, and as the Associate Deputy Chief for Business Operations in the U.S. Forest Service...
Urner Barry Releases March Pulse Protein Report
As of March 8, Ethiopia remains in the top spot of the dried pea export value chart, with a 47% decrease in value year-over-year (YoY) noted. Cameroon holds the fifth spot, with a 31% increase in value. Canada is holding the number one spot for dried lentils with a 6% decrease and...
Industry Reacts to USDA’s Proposed "Product of USA" Requirements
The U.S. Department of Agriculture released a proposed rule featuring new regulatory requirements for the “Product of USA” label claim.
The rule would allow for the “Product of USA” or “Made in the USA” label to be used on meat, poultry and egg products only when they are derived from animals born, raised, slaughtered and processed in the United States.
The North American Meat Institute (NAMI) said the USDA’s latest proposal would “result in trade retaliation from Canada and Mexico costing American consumers and businesses billions of dollars...
Dahlia Imports Recalls Raw Bone-in Goat Products Imported Without Benefit of Reinspection
Dahlia Imports, LLC, a Newark, N.J. firm, is recalling approximately 96,624 pounds of raw bone-in goat products imported into the United States from Australia that were not presented for import reinspection, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today.
The frozen, raw bone-in goat items were imported on or around April 11, 2022, and September 28, 2022. The following products are subject to recall:
- 35.27-lb. cases of “BONE-IN GOAT CUBED PIECES” containing 2.2-lb. plastic bags of...
Biden-Harris Administration Announces Actions, Investments to Create Fairer Markets, Lower Prices
U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Secretary Tom Vilsack today announced the Biden-Harris Administration is investing $89 million across the country (PDF, 160 KB) to finance the startup and expansion of independent meat processors. USDA also announced initial steps the Department is taking to create a more competitive marketplace for seeds and other agricultural inputs.
The $89 million of investments announced today support the Biden-Harris Administration’s Action Plan for a Fairer, More Competitive, and More Resilient Meat and Poultry Supply Chain, which dedicates resources...
NPPC Statement on USDA’s Decision to Extend Line Speed Trial
The National Pork Producers Council (NPPC) applauds USDA’s decision to allow eligible pork harvest facilities to continue experimenting with ergonomics, automation, and crewing while maintaining line speeds that have been proven able to protect food and worker safety for over two decades. Ensuring sufficient harvest capacity is critical to allow America’s pork producers to continue to provide wholesome pork products to consumers. This extension will allow USDA to assess a final report of the data collected during the time-limited trial and determine next steps...
GH Foods NW Recalls Salad with Chicken Products Due to Misbranding, Undeclared Allergens
GH Foods NW, LLC, a Clackamas, Ore. establishment, is recalling approximately 106 pounds of ready-to-eat salad with chicken products due to misbranding and undeclared allergens, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today. The product contains wheat, a known allergen, which is not declared on the product label.
The ready-to-eat lemon chicken & arugula salad products were produced February 28, 2023. The products are labeled with the correct top label but an incorrect bottom label. The incorrect bottom label...
USDA Announces First Permanent Chief Diversity and Inclusion Officer
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) today announced the appointment of L’Tonya Davis as its first permanent Chief Diversity and Inclusion Officer (CDIO). The CDIO will lead USDA in its ongoing efforts to improve diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility (DEIA) across the Department and will oversee the implementation of USDA’s first-ever DEIA Strategic Plan.
“Throughout her career, Ms. Davis has demonstrated a strong commitment to hiring and developing a workforce that reflects the rich and diverse tapestry of America and to creating workplaces...
FSIS Issues Public Health Alert for New Seasons Pizza Sauce Due to Misbranding, Undeclared Allergen
The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) is issuing a public health alert due to concerns that fully cooked, ready-to-eat (RTE) pasta sauce labeled as pizza sauce contains anchovies and milk, known allergens, as well as ground beef and sulfites, which are not declared on the product label. FSIS is issuing this public health alert to ensure that consumers are aware that these products should not be consumed. A recall was not requested because the products are no longer...
Farmer Focus to Expand Processing Capabilities with a $3.6 Million Grant from USDA
Farmer Focus, the only 100% USDA organic and Humane Certified® chicken company with a mission to promote and protect generational family farms, is proud to announce that it is the recipient of a $3.6 million grant issued as part of the second round of the USDA’s Meat and Poultry Processing Expansion Program (MPPEP). The grant will support a $17.8 million expansion of Farmer Focus’ existing organic chicken processing facility (“Liberty”) in Harrisonburg, VA. By almost doubling processing capacity over the next two years...
Biden-Harris Administration Invests $59 Million to Increase Independent Meat and Poultry Processing
U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Secretary Tom Vilsack today announced the Biden-Harris Administration is investing $59 million across the country (PDF, 153 KB) to increase independent meat and poultry processing capacity, expand market opportunities for farmers and create jobs in rural areas.
The investments support the Biden-Harris Administration’s Action Plan for a Fairer, More Competitive, and More Resilient Meat and Poultry Supply Chain, which dedicates resources to expand independent processing capacity. As President Biden has highlighted, creating fairer markets...
Whitson’s Food Service (Bronx) Corp. Recalls Frozen, Ready-To-Cook Chicken Alfredo
Whitson’s Food Service (Bronx) Corp., an Islandia, N.Y., establishment, is recalling approximately 8,713 pounds of frozen, ready-to-cook chicken alfredo with broccoli and penne pasta meals due to misbranding and undeclared allergens, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today. The product contains egg, a known allergen, which is not declared on the product label.
The frozen, ready-to-cook chicken alfredo with broccoli and penne pasta meals were produced on January 25, 2023, and January 31, 2023. The following products are...
FSIS Issues Alert for Signature Select Breakfast Bowl Products Due to Possible Temperature Abuse
The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) is issuing a public health alert due to concerns that not-ready-to-eat meat products were subject to temperature abuse during storage at a distribution center prior to delivery to retailers, which may have resulted in the growth of spoilage organisms or pathogens. FSIS is issuing this public health alert to ensure that consumers are aware that these products should not be consumed. A recall was not requested because the products are no longer...
Urner Barry Releases February Soy & Wheat Report
The potential for a smaller than anticipated Argentine soybean crop supports the U.S. soybean meal export program during the second part of the marketing year (MY), June 1-May 31. In the U.S., average soybean meal prices in Decatur, IL have risen by over $45.00 per ton in the past few months. As a result, the 2022/23 U.S. soybean meal price forecast is lifted to $450.00 per ton.
FSIS: Public Health Alert for Raw, Ready-To-Cook Stuffed Chicken Products
The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) is issuing a public health alert due to concerns that the raw, ready-to-cook chicken entrée products may be missing labeling that includes the list of ingredients and cooking instructions. This product contains soy and milk, known allergens, which may not be declared on the finished product label. FSIS is issuing this public health alert to ensure that consumers with an allergy to soy and dairy are aware that these products should not be consumed and...
USDA Announces $133 Million in Grant Funding Available to Expand Local Food Systems
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) today announced it is now accepting applications for this year’s Local Agriculture Market Program (LAMP), with a total of $133 million available in competitive grant funds to expand and strengthen local and regional food systems and increase the availability of locally grown agricultural products.
The funding available for this year’s program includes $65 million in supplemental funding authorized by the American Rescue Plan, carry over funding from last year’s program and funds provided through the 2018 Farm Bill...
USDA Unveils Strategic Approach, Investments for Addressing Water Supply Challenges in the West
As part of the Biden-Harris Administration’s commitment to making Western communities more resilient to the impacts of drought and climate change, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced new investments and strategies to help farmers and ranchers conserve water, address climate change and build drought resilience in the West, supported in part by funding from the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA).
The Western Water and Working Lands Framework for Conservation Action is a comprehensive, multi-state strategy under USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) to address...
Vilsack Announces Availability of Inflation Reduction Act Funding for Climate-Smart Agriculture
Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack announced the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is making funding available for agricultural producers and forest landowners nationwide to participate in voluntary conservation programs and adopt climate-smart practices. The Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) provided an additional $19.5 billion over five years for climate smart agriculture through several of the conservation programs that USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) implements. NRCS is making available $850 million in fiscal year 2023 for its oversubscribed conservation programs: the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP), Conservation...
USDA Accepting Applications for Trade Mission to Japan
The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS) is accepting applications from exporters of U.S. farm and food products for a two-city trade mission to Japan, June 5-8. The trade mission offers U.S. agribusinesses the potential to increase or expand their sales to Japan, one of the United States’ top five agricultural export markets. U.S. exports of agricultural products to Japan exceeded $14.6 billion in 2022.
“As one of the largest economies in the world, Japan provides many exciting opportunities for the high-value agricultural and food products...
2022 Was Another Record Year for U.S. Farm Exports
The American agricultural sector posted its best export year ever in 2022 with international sales of U.S. farm and food products reaching $196 billion, Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack announced today. Final 2022 trade data released earlier this week by the Commerce Department shows that U.S. agricultural exports increased 11 percent, or $19.5 billion, from the previous record set in 2021.
“This second consecutive year of record-setting agricultural exports, coupled with a record $160.5 billion in net farm income in 2022, demonstrates the success of the Biden-Harris...
Cathy Cochran has been appointed Director of the Office of Communications
Cochran previously served as Press Secretary at USDA during the Obama-Biden Administration, and she also held roles in the public affairs office of USDA’s Food Safety and Inspection Service. Most recently, Cochran was a Senior Vice President on Teneo’s Strategy & Communications team, based in Washington, DC. Prior to that, she spent five years at the Glover Park Group...
FSIS Issues Public Health Alert for Pork Sausage Products Due to Misbranding and Undeclared Allergen
The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) is issuing a public health alert due to concerns that the ready-to-eat (RTE) pork sausage link products may contain milk, a known allergen, which is not declared on the finished product label. FSIS is issuing this public health alert to ensure that consumers with an allergy to dairy are aware that these products should not be consumed. A recall was not requested because the products are no longer available for purchase...
Urner Barry Releases February Pulse Protein Report
As of February 8, Ethiopia remains in the top spot of the dried pea export value chart, with a 94% increase in value year-over-year (YoY) noted. China still holds the fourth spot, with a 11% drop in value YoY. Canada is holding the number one spot for dried lentils with a 3% decrease and Sudan now holds the number two position with a sharp rise in value. Canada is holding the top spot for dried chickpea exports, with a 40% increase in value YoY. ...
USDA Names Simon Liu as New ARS Administrator
The U.S. Department of Agriculture named Simon Liu, Ph.D., the Administrator of the Agricultural Research Service (ARS). In this role, Liu will lead the agency in its efforts to leverage the latest advances in science and technology and develop innovative solutions to agricultural challenges facing the nation and world.
While Liu was officially named as ARS Administrator on Jan. 4, 2023, he has been acting in this role since June 2022. Prior to holding this position, Liu was the Associate Administrator for the agency's Research Management and Operations for more than seven...
FSIS Issues Public Health Alert for Frozen Chicken Korma with Basmati Turmeric Rice
The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) is issuing a public health alert for frozen chicken products due to misbranding and an undeclared allergen. The product contains cashews, a known allergen, which is not declared on the product label. FSIS is issuing this public health alert to ensure that consumers with allergies to cashews are aware that these products should not be consumed. A recall was not requested because it is believed that the products are no longer available for consumers to purchase...
FSIS Issues Public Health Alert for RTE Stuffed Chicken Product that May Be Undercooked
The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) is issuing a public health alert for ready-to-eat (RTE) stuffed chicken product because the product may not be fully cooked due to underprocessing. FSIS is issuing this public health alert to ensure that consumers are aware that this product should not be consumed. A recall was not requested because the product is no longer available for consumers to purchase.
The RTE broccoli stuffed chicken breast product was produced by Vanguard Culinary Group...
Regina Black has been promoted to Senior Advisor for Trade and National Security in the Office of the Secretary
Black has served as Chief of Staff for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs since August 2021. Before joining the Department, she was the Director of the Executive Office at the U.S. Dairy Export Council. Black previously served in the Obama Administration at USDA in various...
Urner Barry Releases January Soy & Wheat Report
In the latest WASDE report, the USDA reported the 2022/23 U.S. wheat outlook in January is for increased supplies, larger domestic use, unchanged exports, and lower ending stocks. Supplies are raised on higher beginning stocks as reported in the National Agriculture Statistics Service (NASS) Grain Stocks report. Feed and residual use is increased 30 million bushels to 80 million bushels based on higher second-quarter implied disappearance based on the Grain Stocks report. The season-average farm price is ...
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