Table 87 Frozen, LLC Recalls Pork and Beef Pizza Products

Table 87 Frozen, LLC., a Brooklyn, N.Y. firm, is recalling an undetermined amount of frozen pizza products containing pork and beef 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 scope of this recall now includes ready-to-eat, prosciutto and pepperoni pizza products produced from June 3, 2017 through June 4, 2019. The following products are subject to recall...

EU Plans for U.S. Specific Quota on High-Quality Beef Imports

The European Union (EU) plans to provide the U.S. with a country-specific quota for high-quality beef imports, according to a report from Australian trade publication Beef Central. The U.S. Trade Representative and the European Commission reached an agreement in March to grant the U.S. a country-specific share of the 45,000 metric tons duty-free quota. The U.S. will receive an initial allocation of 18,500 tons from the 45,000 tons EU grainfed quota, increasing to 35,000 tons over the next seven years, according to the report. The other major suppliers, Uruguay, Australia and Argentina will share the remainder of the quota volume. Consultations with these other suppliers have now occurred and the next step in the process is for the European Commission to formally begin...

NAMI Joins More than 950 Groups to Call for Swift Congressional Ratification of the USMCA

The North American Meat Institute today joined more than 950 organizations representing the U.S. food and agriculture industries to urge Members of Congress to swiftly ratify the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA).

In a letter sent to Congress, more than 950 groups representing the U.S. food and agriculture value chain at the national, state and local levels called on Congress to support the ratification of USMCA. The letter reiterates that USMCA will benefit the U.S. agriculture and food industry while providing consumers a more abundant supply of high-quality, safe food at affordable prices...

CHART: Industry Expectations for Weekly Cattle Slaughter

April Beef and Pork Exports Below 2018 Levels; Lamb Still Trending Higher

April exports of U.S. beef and pork were lower than a year ago while U.S. lamb exports continued their upward trend, according to data released by USDA and compiled by the U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF).

Beef exports totaled 105,241 metric tons (mt) in April, down 5% year-over-year, though export value was down only slightly at $674.2 million. For January through April, exports were 4% below last year’s record pace in volume (412,547 mt) and 1% lower in value ($2.58 billion).

On a per-head basis, beef export value per head of fed slaughter averaged $305.61 (down 7% from April 2018). The January-April average was $308.34 per head, down 3% from a year ago...

This Week in Retail: Looking Ahead to Father’s Day Spending

Father’s Day is coming up on Sunday, June 16^th, and retailers are prepping for the second big grilling holiday of the summer.

According to the National Retail Federation, Father’s Day spending in 2019 is expected to reach an all-time high of $16 billion. That’s up from last year’s $15.3 billion. This monumental spending figure still, however, pales in comparison to spending for Mother’s Day, coming in at a whopping $25 billion.

Mother’s Day has long been known as a foodservice holiday, but Father’s Day tends to favor grilling at home with some quality steaks, burgers, chops or ribs. The NRF also reports that spending for Father’s Day has grown 70 percent over the last decade, with special outings playing a big part of that growth, accounting for a projected $3.3 billion. With 76 percent of...

Hard Rock International Debuts its Most Extensive Menu Innovation

Hard Rock International is announcing its most extensive menu innovation in the company's history with more than 20 new offerings debuting in locations around the world on Friday, June 14, 2019. The legendary restaurant's new menu puts the spotlight on its lineup of all-new, award-winning Steak Burgers, headlined by the world's first edible 24-Karat Gold Leaf Steak Burger™ that will benefit Action Against Hunger.

Steak Burgers aren't the only items making their debut on Hard Rock's new menu, which also includes Instagram-worthy Boozy Milkshakes, Sliders and Shareables that encourage adventure and exploration, allowing fans to curate their most flavorful playlist. The global launch of the new menu coincides with...

American Angus Association Names Mark McCully CEO

The American Angus Association Board of Directors is pleased to announce Mark McCully as the new chief executive officer of the American Angus Association, effective June 10, 2019.

McCully will serve as the chief executive officer for the American Angus Association and for each of the Association’s subsidiaries: Angus Media, Certified Angus Beef LLC, Angus Genetics Inc., and the Angus Foundation.

“This truly is a proud day for the Association and the breed,” said John Pfeiffer, Association president. “Mark has grown up in the cattle business and possesses unique insight into all segments of beef production, his knowledge and leadership have served CAB well, and he will help to continue to drive the demand for...

NAMI Calls on California Department of Food and Agriculture to Postpone Implementation of Prop 12

The North American Meat Institute (NAMI) today submitted public comments regarding California’s Proposition 12 calling for postponement of the law’s implementation so multiple problems affecting consumers and producers may be addressed.

“The Meat Institute appreciates the opportunity to submit these comments,” said Mark Dopp, Senior Vice President of Regulatory and Scientific Affairs and General Counsel in comments submitted on behalf of NAMI. “NAMI wishes to repeat its request that CDFA [California Department of Food and Agriculture] postpone implementing Prop 12 for at least two years and longer as necessary to ensure conversations and a common understanding among the agency, the industry, and consumers about...

Tyson Foods Completes Acquisition of Thai and European Businesses from BRF S.A.

Tyson Foods, Inc. (NYSE: TSN) announced today the successful completion of the acquisition of the Thai and European businesses from BRF S.A. The purchase includes four production facilities in Thailand, and one each in the Netherlands and the United Kingdom. These businesses build on the company’s growth strategy to expand offerings of value-added protein in global markets.

“The addition of this experienced and talented team combined with these businesses strengthens our capabilities and increases our reach to new markets. I’m glad to welcome them to the Tyson Foods family,” said Noel White, president and CEO of Tyson Foods. “We’re now strategically aligned to better serve customers in Europe, the Middle East, and Asia, building on our global strategy.”

It’s estimated that approximately 90 percent of global protein consumption growth will occur outside the United States, with 60 percent of the volume growth coming from...

Beef Quarterly Q2 2019: Changing of the Guard in the Beef Trimmings Market

The world’s largest beef importer, China, is at the centre of growth in beef trade in general, and trimmings trade specifically. Many of the cuts imported by China have been to satisfy the local cuisine. But as diets and foodservice change, this now includes a growing trend in trimmings trade.

The growing demand for trimmings from Asian countries will create additional competition for the US but it is not expected to shift the market yet. Suppliers of trimmings into the global market should be conscious of possible changes in the trade. While steady growth is evident in the Chinese market to date, a short-term demand increase across all proteins as a result of African Swine Fever will likely cause a spike in demand for trimmings...

This Week in Retail: Wholesale vs. Retail Action

There are two sides to every story, and the retail meat situation is no different. This week in retail, we look at some of the dynamics at play in the wholesale arena for beef and pork and how retail has responded.

There seems to be a contra-seasonal trend happening in the wholesale boxed beef market, for grilling items in particular. The loin complex—where we get strip steaks, T-bones, porterhouse steaks and filets—is currently moving in a contrary direction to its historical norms, residing at multi-year lows.

When we look at the retail items derived from this market, bone-in rib steaks are featured nearly 19 percent below year ago levels, at an average $7.19 per pound. Boneless strip steaks are down a whopping 29 percent from this time last year! Porterhouse steaks are right about on par with year ago levels, while T-bones are down 20 cents per pound. Tenderloin filets are down nearly...

JBS USA Announces Nearly $100M Investment at Grand Island Beef Production Facility

JBS USA, a leading U.S.-based, global food company, today announced a $95 million expansion project at its Grand Island, Neb., beef production facility. The project includes new, improved animal handling facilities, a state-of-the-art, temperature-controlled harvest floor and facility reconfiguration designed to improve team member experience, food safety and product quality.

The 107,000 square-foot expansion and facility enhancements will better position the company to sustainably meet evolving customer and consumer expectations for high-quality, great-tasting U.S. beef products. This expansion project has already begun and is anticipated to be completed in early 2021. Operations at Grand Island will...

United States-Colombia Trade Promotion Agreement Pays Dividends to American Farmers and Exporters

The United States-Colombia Trade Promotion Agreement (CTPA) entered into force on May 15, 2012, laying the foundation for a surge in U.S. agricultural exports. Since 2012, U.S. agricultural exports to Colombia nearly tripled from $1.1 billion to $2.9 billion in 2018. Despite its geographic proximity to major U.S. competitors Brazil and Argentina, Colombia, the third-largest economy in South America, purchases half of its agricultural imports from the United States. Preferential access from CTPA and a strong Colombian economy have allowed the United States to increase its market share from 19 percent prior to CTPA, to 50 percent in 2018. Changing demographics, a growing middle-class, and consumer trends toward more modern retail outlets is expected to keep demand strong into the future for high-quality U.S. agricultural exports.

Colombian Macro-economic Trends and Changing Demographics

In addition to CPTA, political stability and a dynamic economy have contributed to Colombia becoming the United States’ 12th-largest destination for agricultural exports, up from...

CHART: Industry Expectations for Weekly Cattle Slaughter

ANALYSIS: ASF Update; Changing Global Protein Flows

At the time of this report, African Swine Fever continues to spread generally unchecked through China and has more recently expanded to the neighboring nations of Hong Kong, Vietnam and Cambodia, in addition to the revelation that North Korea has been dealing with it since at least February. The lastest official numbers from China admit a 20.8% drop in the April hog herd vs last year and sow losses of 22.3% year over year. As China is notoriously selective with the amount and accuracy of data that they provide the world, this situation could be...

Perdue Premium Meat Company to Acquire Panorama Meats

The nation’s largest producer of grass-fed, organic beef to grow with support of new resources

Panorama Meats®, the nation’s largest producer of 100 percent grass-fed and grass-finished certified organic beef, today announced they were joining Perdue Premium Meat Company, Inc., an industry leader in sustainable agriculture and humane animal care. Panorama will be the most recent brand to join the Perdue Farms family of sustainable premium meat companies that include Niman Ranch®, Coleman Natural®, Prairie Grove® and Sioux-Preme® Packing Co. Panorama’s nearly 50 independent family ranchers raise U.S. born cattle and span seven states and one million acres of USDA Certified Organic grasslands in Northern California, Southern Oregon, Montana, South Dakota, Nebraska, Wisconsin, and Colorado.

“Perdue Premium Meat Company brings long-term stability and shared resources that will...

This Week in Retail: The Memorial Day Rundown

It’s finally here, the unofficial start to summer and the very official start to the grilling season. In the week leading up to Memorial Day weekend, the beef category claims the top spot for protein feature volume at 27 percent, followed by seafood at just under 26 percent.

Chicken managed to knock out pork for the number three spot with 22.5 percent of ad space, leaving pork with 18 percent. Cheaper grilling items like thighs and drumsticks helped boost chicken featuring volume this week. Meanwhile, the beef segment presents the ultimate showdown between ground beef and steak. In the pork complex, we see an increase in pork chop featuring, up nearly 8 percent week over week.

Taking a closer look at the beef complex, Urner Barry’s weekly retail beef index is right on par with the 3-year average at $5.85 per pound. This is down from the previous week’s index of $6.47 per pound. Ground beef features are modestly lower year over year at an average...

USDA Releases Baseline Data on Antimicrobial Use by Beef and Swine Operations

The United States Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service is releasing the results of two national studies that examine antimicrobial use and stewardship on beef feedlots and on large swine operations during 2016.

The data USDA collected and studied will help animal health officials – as well as the human health community and consumers – better understand how antimicrobial drugs are used on livestock farms. The studies include details on what antimicrobials were used, why they were used and how they were administered...

JBS USA Highlights 2018 Sustainability Accomplishments and Progress Toward 2020 Goals

JBS USA, a U.S.-based global food company, today announced the release of its 2018 Sustainability Report and progress toward 2020 sustainability targets. The report is the company’s first interactive, digital report and represents the most comprehensive and transparent view to date of the global company’s sustainability progress in its operations in Australia, Canada, England, France, Mexico, the Netherlands, Northern Ireland, New Zealand and the United States.

“At our core, we are a food company with a passion to be a part of the family meal, providing sustainable food solutions to our customers and consumers that they can proudly share and serve,” said Andre Nogueira, President and CEO of JBS USA. “The JBS USA 2018 Sustainability Report details our economic, social and environmental progress and the important role...

Aurora Packing Company Inc Recalls Beef Products

Aurora Packing Company, Inc., a North Aurora, Ill. establishment, is recalling approximately 62,112 pounds of raw beef products that may be contaminated with E. coli O157:H7, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today.

The raw beef products were packaged on April 19, 2019. This spreadsheet contains a list of the products subject to recall.

The products subject to recall bear establishment number “EST. 788” inside the USDA mark of inspection. These items were shipped nationwide for further distribution and processing...

Restaurant Food Costs: What does ASF Mean for Protein Prices in the US?

Rabobank expects food costs in the US to increase in the second half of the year, as protein prices are impacted by stronger export demand following the African Swine Fever (ASF) outbreak. Pork and chicken prices will be the most impacted. Beef will be the last to see increases materialize, but QSR patty prices are expected to be the most vulnerable component. If a trade agreement with China were to be brokered, price increases would be faster and steeper.

Restaurants Should Expect Rising Protein Prices

For the past two years, restaurants have been favored by a relatively benign food cost environment, which helped compensate for rising costs in other areas (labor, real estate). We expect this situation to change (for proteins) towards the second half of the year and...

BEF Foods Inc Recalls Beef Products

BEF Foods, Inc., a Lima, Ohio establishment, is recalling approximately 527 pounds of beef pasta products that were produced without the benefit of federal inspection and outside of inspection hours, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today.

The ready-to-eat beef stroganoff pasta items were produced on May 3, 2019. The following products are subject to recall...

Kansas Cattlewoman to Senate Climate Change Hearing: "Beef Cattle Industry has Great Story to Tell" 

Testifying on behalf of the National Cattlemen's Beef Association, Kansas cattle producer Debbie Lyons-Blythe delivered a clear message at a U.S. Senate Agriculture Committee hearing on climate change this morning.

“The U.S. cattle industry is proud of its history as stewards of our nation’s natural resources,” Lyons-Blythe testified at the Committee’s hearing on Climate Change and the Agricultural Sector. “The industry takes very seriously its obligation to protect the environment while providing the nation with a safe and affordable beef supply. Cattle producers are America’s original conservationists, and we work hard every day to ensure that we can...

CHART: Industry Expectations for Weekly Cattle Slaughter

Industry Reacts to U.S. Lifting Metal Tariffs on Canada and Mexico 

On Friday, the United States and Canada announced a deal to remove tariffs on Canadian steel and aluminum in exchange for keeping dumped metals from China and other countries out of the United States, paving the way for a similar pact with Mexico. The quota-free deal eliminated the U.S. metal tariffs as well as Canada's retaliatory tariffs on about $12 billion worth of U.S. products, including pork and beef. The 25% tariff on steel and 10% tariff on aluminum from Canada and Mexico were a major hurdle to ratification of the new trade deal to replace the North American Free Trade Agreement.

U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue stated that Congress should swiftly move to ratify the USMCA after the Section 232 Tariffs were removed from Canada and Mexico. "The announcement is a big win for American agriculture and the economy as a whole. I thank President Trump for negotiating a great deal and for negotiating the removal of these tariffs...

Vienna Beef Ltd Recalls Beef Products

Vienna Beef Ltd., a Chicago, Ill. establishment, is recalling approximately 2,030 pounds of beef frank links products that may be contaminated with extraneous materials, specifically metal, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today.

The beef frank links items were produced on May 2, 2019. The following products are subject to recall...

U.S. Beef Gains Full Access to Japan

U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue today announced that the United States and Japan have agreed on new terms and conditions that eliminate Japan’s longstanding restrictions on U.S. beef exports, paving the way for expanded sales to the United States’ top global beef market. Last week, on the margins of the G-20 Agriculture Ministerial Meeting in Niigata, Japan, Secretary Perdue met with Japanese government officials and affirmed the importance of science-based trade rules. The new terms, which take effect immediately, allow U.S. products from all cattle, regardless of age, to enter Japan for the first time since 2003.

“This is great news for American ranchers and exporters who now have full access to the Japanese market for their high-quality, safe, wholesome, and delicious U.S. beef,” Secretary Perdue said. “We are hopeful that Japan’s decision will help...

Which Rules the Roost When it Comes to Restaurant Orders: Burgers or Chicken Sandwiches?

Burgers have been a top item ordered at U.S. restaurants for decades but chicken sandwiches have come on strong over the last several years. There are more chicken sandwich restaurant concepts and chicken sandwiches are appearing on more menus. So have burgers been knocked off their perch by chicken sandwiches? “No,” says The NPD Group, which daily tracks U.S. consumers use of restaurants and other foodservice outlets. Burgers still rule the roost and are the top sandwich ordered overall.

By the numbers, the average number of times a customer purchased a burger at a restaurant over the 12-month period ending February 2019 was 14.7 times and the customer purchase frequency of chicken sandwiches was 8.7, according to NPD’s receipt harvesting service, Checkout, which tracks...

Cargill Invests in Cultured Meat Company Aleph Farms

The demand for protein is expected to grow 70% over the next 30 years as the global population increases significantly. With an eye to complementing its focus on animal protein, Cargill announced today it will invest in Aleph Farms, a cultured meat company focused on growing complex meat varieties like steak.

Cargill is participating in a Series A investment round led by VisVires New Protein and joined by several other investors looking to move Aleph Farms’ product from prototype to the commercial marketplace. Aleph Farms grows meat directly from beef cells using a 3D tissue engineering platform. In December 2018, it achieved a world-first by demonstrating...

CHART: Industry Expectations for Weekly Cattle Slaughter

First Quarter Beef, Pork Exports below Last Year’s Pace; Lamb Exports Trend Higher

For the first quarter of 2019, U.S. beef exports were slightly below last year’s record pace while pork exports continued to be slowed by trade barriers, according to March data released by USDA and compiled by the U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF). U.S. lamb exports were a first quarter bright spot, trending significantly higher than a year ago.

March beef exports totaled 107,655 metric tons (mt), down 4% year-over-year, while value fell 2% to $678 million. For the first quarter, exports were down 3% at 307,306 mt valued at $1.9 billion (down 0.8%).

March beef exports were very strong on a per-head basis, with export value per head of fed slaughter averaging $335.81 – up 1% from a year ago and the highest since December...

HelloFresh Elevates the At-Home Dinner Experience with the Launch of New Premium Menu Items

HelloFresh SE (HFG), the leader in delivering delicious ingredients and easy-to-follow recipes to households worldwide, today announced the launch of two new premium menu offerings: Craft Burgers and Taste Tours. Beginning today, customers can select from an alternating menu of Craft Burgers and Taste Tours dishes that are designed to elevate the at-home cooking experience by bringing everything needed to create fully-loaded burgers and flavorful global cuisines right to your doorstep.

Upping the ante on HelloFresh’s beloved burger offerings, the new Craft Burgers bring a gastropub experience to the kitchen table with loads of gourmet toppings like truffle, bacon, and caprese-style. For home cooks who love global cuisine like dim sum and paella, the new Taste Tours dishes take customers on...

Cattle Industry’s Beef Quality Assurance Program Develops, Distributes Extensive National Manual

An official manual for the Beef Quality Assurance program that is both detailed and extensive is now being distributed nationwide throughout the cattle industry. The manual and the BQA Program are both managed by the producer education team at the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, a contractor to the Beef Checkoff.

The 124-page manual addresses topics such as food safety, animal well-being, worker safety and environmental stewardship. It provides specific information to help producers approach management decisions in a way that acknowledges a responsibility to the animals, consumers, the environment and the larger beef industry.

The manual includes the most current set of key practices, guidelines and suggestions for providing thoughtful and responsible cattle management. A helpful resource for....

This Week in Retail: Grocery Outlook for May—Beef, Chicken Steal the Show

It’s finally here—the month that unofficially kicks off the summer grilling season and features several retail buying occasions to boost spending.

May brings about warmer weather conducive to grilling activities, along with graduation parties, Mother’s Day and, of course, the big kahuna—Memorial Day. Healthy demand on the wholesale side has already been evident for some time as packers and processors prepare for retail and foodservice needs.

Mother’s Day is well known to be a foodservice holiday, but increasingly, the grocery segment has managed to compete with foodservice through convenience offerings like prepared foods, meal kits, catering, and deli. And, with the cost of food away from home growing at a faster rate than that of... 

Imported Beef: A Truly Global Market

Joe Muldowney, CEO of Urner Barry sits down to discuss in detail how the global economy and conditions surrounding red meat have impacted supply and pricing...

Kroger and Home Chef Launch Pilot for Three New Retail Meal Solutions

The Kroger Co. (NYSE: KR) and Home Chef announced today a pilot to enhance its existing selection of meal kits sold in more than 900 Kroger Family of Stores across the country with three new options.

• Home Chef Oven-Ready meals feature fresh, ready-to-cook ingredients packed in an oven-safe tin to make both meal preparation and clean-up quick and effortless.
• Home Chef Heat & Eat meals are delicious, fully-cooked, ready-to-heat meals, proteins and sides that can be prepared in as little as five minutes.
• Home Chef Lunch Kits include salads, grain bowls, sandwiches and more with fully cooked proteins and can be prepared easily...

CHART: Industry Expectations for Weekly Cattle Slaughter

Tyson says Hog Disease Impact to Linger for Years

Global meat prices are poised to rise after China culled tens of millions of hogs to contain a fast-spreading swine disease, the chief executive of Tyson Foods Inc. said.

The top U.S. meat processing company already is paying higher prices for U.S. hogs and other meat as Chinese buyers crank up purchases, Tyson executives said Monday. In the months ahead, Tyson anticipates higher meat costs for consumers, as well as stronger profits in its own pork, beef and chicken-processing operations.

Noel White, CEO of the Arkansas-based company, said the potential impact of the past year's African swine fever outbreaks was unprecedented, and could lower global meat supplies by 5% at a time when protein consumption is on the rise world-wide...

Tyson Foods Reports Strong Second Quarter Fiscal 2019 Results

Tyson Foods, Inc. (NYSE: TSN), one of the world’s largest food companies and a recognized leader in protein with leading brands including Tyson, Jimmy Dean, Hillshire Farm, Ball Park, Wright, Aidells, ibp and State Fair, today reported the following results:

First Six Months Highlights

• GAAP EPS of $2.67, down 49% from record prior year (prior year included a one-time tax benefit of $2.71)
• Adjusted EPS of $2.78, down 10% from record prior year
• GAAP operating income of $1,442 million; Adjusted operating income of $1,495 million
• Total Company GAAP operating margin of 7.0%; Adjusted operating margin of...

NCBA Welcomes Legislation Aimed to Help Livestock Haulers

The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association today welcomed the introduction of legislation in the U.S. Senate aimed at reforming federal Hours of Service (HOS) rules in a way that ensures animal welfare, highway safety, and the well-being of livestock haulers. S. 1255, the Transporting Livestock Across America Safely Act, was introduced by Senator Ben Sasse (R-NE) with a bipartisan group of original cosponsors, including Senators Deb Fischer (R-NE), Kevin Cramer (R-ND), Jim Risch (R-ID), Steve Daines (R-MT), Marco Rubio (R-FL), Jon Tester (D-MT), Tina Smith (D-MN), Mike Crapo (R-ID), Pat Roberts (R-KS), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-MS), Jerry Moran (R-KS), Doug Jones (D-AL), John Hoeven (R-ND), Mike Rounds (R-SD), Mike Braun (R-IN), Mike Enzi (R-WY), Joni Ernst (R-IA), and James Lankford (R-OK).

“The current Hours of Service rules for livestock haulers present major challenges for our industry and can often jeopardize the health and well-being of livestock,” said Colin Woodall, NCBA’s senior vice president of government affairs. “Hauling livestock is inherently different than hauling typical consumer goods, like paper towels or bottles of water. Live cattle cannot...

Vegan Burger Maker Beyond Meat Sizzles in Market Debut

Shares of vegan burger maker Beyond Meat Inc surged 84 percent in their market debut on Thursday, as investors look to cash in on the growing popularity of plant-based meat alternatives.

The stock opened at $46, well above its IPO price of $25, giving Beyond Meat a market capitalization of around $2.75 billion, including underwriters' option.

Shares surged to $50 just minutes after starting to trade and were halted due to volatility. They have since resumed trading at more than...

UB Executive Conference: Meat and Poultry Panel Captivates with Complex Analysis and Insight

Day two of the 2019 Executive Conference was filled with premium analysis and top insights, and it all led up to the highly anticipated Reporter Panel discussions. This year, the congruent breakout sessions featured a Poultry and Red Meat panel, with Urner Barry Market Reporters Gary Morrison, Dylan Hughes, Russell Barton, and Evan Addis. Here are a just few highlights from the session:

Examining a few macro-economic factors, Gary Morrison kicked off the conversation noting that the stock market is in its longest bull run in history. There is record low unemployment. Consumer confidence is up, and wages are rising. And it’s protein that tends to benefit from more spending—as consumer spending buoys consumption.

“Right now, we’re seeing all-time... 

U.S. Exports for Most Major Meat Commodities Grew in 2018

U.S. exports of beef, pork, and broilers (young chickens) were strong in 2018, driven by domestic production increases and favorable foreign demand. Compared to the previous year, beef exports increased 10.3 percent, pork exports increased 4.2 percent, and broiler exports were 4.1 percent higher than in 2017. Lamb and mutton exports were 1.5 percent lower despite stronger domestic production. Turkey exports declined 1.8 percent, with lower turkey production likely a contributing factor. Egg exports were 6.1 percent lower in 2018 than a year earlier, while production increased 2.1 percent year over year.

The ERS Livestock and Meat International Trade Data product provides monthly and annual data on U.S. meat and livestock exports and imports. The data are broken down by country and commodity and are available for cattle, beef, hogs and pigs, pork, lamb and mutton, broilers, turkeys, and eggs. An analysis of the data helps explain...

Sonic Drive-In Says Aloha with New King's Hawaiian Clubs

SONIC® Drive-In adds a taste of Hawaii to its menu this month with the all-new KING’S HAWAIIAN® Clubs. Complete with island flair, SONIC transforms its Classic Crispy Chicken Sandwich and SONIC Burger to create the irresistible KING’S HAWAIIAN Chicken Club and KING’S HAWAIIAN Burger Club.

Guests can choose between the KING’S HAWAIIAN Chicken Club made with 100-percent all white meat crispy chicken or the KING’S HAWAIIAN Burger Club made with a savory 100-percent pure beef patty, both piled high with fresh lettuce, ripe tomato, crunchy bacon, and natural Swiss cheese layered on the iconic KING’S HAWAIIAN Bun. Starting at just...

Urner Barry to Host Global Protein Summit in Chicago This Fall

Urner Barry, the leading provider of protein market news and information in the food industry, is pleased to announce a brand-new event designed to bring clarity and insight into the increasingly complex business of food and agriculture, through the first-ever Global Protein Summit.

Urner Barry’s Global Protein Summit will be held in Chicago on October 7-8, 2019. Specifically designed for those in the beef, pork, and poultry industry, this two-day agenda is packed with intel from the foremost experts on economics and agribusiness. Hear from top speakers and analysts on China and other global trade partners, African Swine Fever, alternative proteins, changing consumer demands, and what to look out for as we move forward.

“We understand how complex this environment has become, and how hard it is to navigate through the rapid pace of change in the global protein markets,” says Jim Kenny, COO at Urner Barry. “Our customers are telling us that...

UB Executive Conference: Keynote Rob Lynch of Arby’s Says “Persevere with Pride”

“We Have the Meats” is the #1 recognized tagline in QSR today—and Rob Lynch is the man behind that marketing strategy.

Rob Lynch is President at Arby’s and this year’s keynote speaker at Urner Barry’s Executive Conference.

When Rob first joined the company, Arby’s wasn’t the force it is today. But then CEO of Arby’s Paul Brown told him in their initial meeting, “Were going to change the entire company, or die trying.”

It’s safe to say, they succeeded. The company has seen incredible growth in just the last five years, making countless headlines and unforgettable impressions while...

EU Set to Ban Meat Names for Veggie Alternatives 

What’s in a name? The fast-growing meat substitute market may soon face this question as meat-related terms and names could be banned for veggie alternatives, following a vote from the EU’s Agriculture Committee’s in early April. Terms such as steak, sausage, escalope, burger and hamburger will no longer be allowed for vegetable-based products, if the measures pass the next stages. However, they still face a vote by the full parliament, then need to be put to member states and the European commission.

Upping the likelihood of approval is a similar ban on the use of dairy product names such as milk, cheese or yogurt for plant-based products which came into force in...

Grant Park Packing Recalls Raw Ground Beef Products 

Grant Park Packing, a Franklin Park, Ill. establishment, is recalling approximately 53,200 pounds of raw ground beef products that may be contaminated with E. coli O103, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today.

The bulk raw ground beef was produced on October 30-31, 2018 and November 1, 2018. The following products are subject to recall...

Walmart to Create Angus Beef Supply Chain

Walmart, the nation’s largest grocer, announced its entry into the beef industry, developing an end-to-end supply chain for Angus beef.

The retailer has been diligently working to improve the quality of its food offering with the company’s fresh division and meat department at the forefront of this effort. To ensure supply of quality Angus beef and to meet customer demand for a more transparent supply chain, Walmart is working with best-in-class partners including Texas rancher Bob McClaren of Prime Pursuits.

“As clean labels, traceability and transparency become more and more important to customers, we’ve made plans to enter into the beef industry creating an unmatched system that allows us to deliver consistent quality and...

K2D Foods Recalls Raw Ground Beef Products

K2D Foods, doing business as (DBA) Colorado Premium Foods, a Carrolton, Ga. establishment, is recalling approximately 113,424 pounds of raw ground beef products that may be contaminated with E. coli O103, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today.

The raw ground beef items were produced on March 26, March 29, April 2, April 5, April 10, and April 12, 2019. The following products are subject to recall...

White Castle Announces New Limited Time Menu 

White Castle, America's first fast-food hamburger chain, today announced the addition of its new BBQ bash lineup featuring the BBQ Brisket Slider, 99¢ BBQ Original Slider, and, for the first time since White Castle became the first fast-food chain to offer the Impossible™ Slider, a spin on the iconic slider made from plants – the BBQ Impossible Slider. Joining the new BBQ lineup are White Castle's fan-favorite Fried Pickles and a line of Summer Smoothies to keep Cravers cool. The new menu items are available at most White Castle restaurants for a limited time or while supplies last.

White Castle's new BBQ bash lineup includes the BBQ Brisket Slider, with smoked and sliced brisket, the BBQ Impossible Slider, featuring the tastier, beefier Impossible patty, and ...

CHART: Industry Expectations for Weekly Cattle Slaughter

February Exports Below Year-Ago Levels for U.S. Pork, Beef

February exports of U.S. pork and beef fell below last year’s levels while lamb exports trended higher, according to statistics released by USDA and compiled by the U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF).

Pork export volume was down 9% from a year ago in February to 186,745 metric tons (mt), while export value dropped 17% to $455.9 million — the lowest monthly value total since February 2016. For January through February, pork exports were 5% below last year’s pace in volume (388,580 mt) and 13% lower in value ($950 million).

Pork export value averaged $45.12 per head slaughtered in February, up slightly from January but 21% lower year-over-year. The January-February average was $44.93, down 16%. Exports accounted for 24% of total February pork production and ...

This Week in Retail: The Rundown on Easter Features

Pork moved into the top spot this week just in time for the holiday, claiming 25.4 percent of protein feature volume. Beef came in second, scoring 23.6 percent, with seafood closely following at 23 percent. Chicken accounted for 16.2 percent. Turkey features were bumped up to 5.6 percent, compared to 3.6 the week prior.

When comparing holiday week retail prices year-over-year, we have to go back to the week of March 26^th, 2018, as Easter fell three weeks earlier last year. Looking at the retail ham complex, ham features come in at an average price of $1.66 per pound, compared to $1.86 per pound during the week leading up to Easter a year ago. That’s an 11 percent drop YOY and should...

PathProven from Performance Food Group Providing First-Ever DNA Trace Back System from Farm to Plate in North America

Nearly 93 percent of all consumers are more likely to be loyal to a brand when it commits to full transparency, according to a 2017 Label Insights study from the Food Marketing Institute. The survey also revealed 74 percent of consumers would switch from the brands they usually buy to ones that provide more in-depth product information beyond the physical packaging. In Europe, the fresh meat industry has been moving toward this goal for twenty years. In the U.S., Performance Food Group Company (PFG) has been working with European technology innovator, IdentiGEN, for 10 years to align supply chains, building the first complete DNA Trace Back System to the farm. PFG has connected the information loop to provide greater accountability, improve sustainability, ensure quality, and...

Technomic: Shifting Consumption Impacts Menu Offerings in Canada

While red meat continues to maintain strong interest among consumers, growing concerns for health and sustainability are having an increasing impact on these staples in Canada, Technomic reveals in the 2019 Canadian Centre of the Plate Consumer Trend Report. The growing popularity of alternative proteins will increasingly encroach on beef and pork’s share of the plate.

“We are seeing a rise in vegetarian or vegan dishes which have primarily impacted beef and pork consumption. But the impact will broaden going forward as plant-based substitutes emerge for other categories,” explains Anne Mills, senior manager of consumer insights at Technomic. “Consumers are far more likely to ...

U.S. Beef, Poultry and Egg Products Gain New Market Access in Tunisia

U.S. Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer and U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue announced today that the government of Tunisia and the United States have finalized U.S. export certificates to allow imports of U.S. beef, poultry, and egg products into Tunisia.  This announcement follows meetings between U.S. and Tunisian officials on the safety and wholesomeness of U.S. beef, poultry, and egg products.

“President Trump continues to prioritize the opening of new markets for U.S. agricultural products, and we welcome Tunisia’s agreement to begin imports of U.S. beef, poultry, and egg products,” said Ambassador Lighthizer. “New access to the Tunisian market is an important step in ensuring that American farmers and ranchers can continue to expand their exports of U.S. agricultural products.”

“I'm convinced that when the Tunisians get a taste of U.S. beef, poultry, and eggs, they're going to want more. These products coming into Tunisia are...

CDC Suspects Ground Beef is Source of Latest E. coli Outbreak

As of Friday, April 12, 2019, 109 people infected with the outbreak strain of E. coli O103 have been reported from six states. The CDC is reporting the 109 illnesses that the PulseNet laboratory network has confirmed are part of this outbreak. States are now investigating additional illnesses that might be a part of this outbreak.

Illnesses began on dates from March 2, 2019, to March 6, 2019. Ill people range in age from less than 1 year to 83 years, with a median age of 18. Of those infected, 53 percent are female. Out of 81 people with information available, 17, or 21 percent, have been hospitalized. No deaths and no cases of hemolytic uremic syndrome have been reported at this time. Illnesses that occurred after ...

Denver Processing LLC Recalls Raw Pork and Beef Products Produced without Benefit of Inspection

Denver Processing LLC, a Denver, Colo. establishment, is recalling approximately 13,865 pounds of raw pork and beef products that were produced without the benefit of federal inspection and outside inspection hours, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today.

The raw pork and beef items were produced on April 9, 2019. The following products are subject to recall ...

$20 Million JBS Global Food Innovation Center Opens on Colorado State University Campus

The JBS Global Food Innovation Center In Honor of Gary & Kay Smith officially opened on the Colorado State University campus Tuesday, April 9, when JBS USA CEO Andre Nogueira cut the ribbon on the $20 million state-of-the-art facility.

In March 2017, JBS USA entered into a strategic, long-term partnership with CSU that included a $12.5 million investment toward construction of the building and educational programming for JBS USA and Pilgrim’s team members.

“We’re so pleased to be here today to help celebrate the opening of this center,” Nogueira said at the grand opening ceremony. “Our mission at JBS is to be the best, and the mission of this facility is to advance best practices in ...

Quaker Steak & Lube Unveils New Limited-Time Offers and Beverage Menu Perfect for Patio Season

Quaker Steak & Lube, one of the nation's leading family casual-dining restaurant chains with franchise opportunities available, has rolled out a new limited time offer menu, featuring food and beverages that provide guests with fresh, new flavors that build upon the fan-favorite classics for which Quaker Steak is known. At the same time, Quaker Steak & Lube has revamped its all-day beverage menu focusing on quality spirits and trending drink categories.

Just in time for patio season, Quaker Steak's limited-time menu features five new flavor-stacked steakburgers. The line-up starts with a Baja Burger, topped with fresh and spicy south-of-the-border flavors. With continued international flair, the Reuben Burger — piled high with...

Yoakum Packing Co. Recalls Venison Sausage Products

Yoakum Packing Co., a Yoakum, Texas establishment, is recalling approximately 12,388 pounds of smoked venison sausage that contains pork products that were not represented on the label, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today.

The fully cooked smoked venison sausage containing beef, pork and other nonmeat products items were produced from May 3, 2017 through March 22, 2019. The following products are subject to recall ...

Rabobank: Rising African Swine Fever Losses to Lift All Protein Boats

Production losses from African swine fever (ASF) have eclipsed initial estimates. The Chinese pork production shortfall, along with shortfalls in Southeast Asia, will create challenges and opportunities for animal protein exporters.

In 2019, we expect Chinese pork production losses of 25% to 35% in response to ASF. Reports of extreme losses (over 50%) are limited to confined areas.

Sizable breeding herd losses will delay the Chinese pork industry’s recovery. Rebuilding efforts will be further complicated by the risk of recontamination, despite ...

TGI Fridays Introduces Four New Sizzling Entrées

When it comes to mouthwatering sizzle that satisfies every appetite, no one does it hotter or tastier than TGI Fridays™, especially with the addition of four new Sizzling Entrées that join two of the brand's most popular, best-selling entrées – Sizzling Chicken & Cheese and Sizzling Chicken & Shrimp.

"Simply put, Fridays always brings the sizzle," said Cindy Syracuse, TGI Fridays Vice President of Marketing. "That's why we decided to expand the Sizzling menu for a limited time only – with taste innovations that celebrate everyone's favorite flavors."

The four new Sizzling Entrées that are featured for a limited time include ...

Central Valley Meat Holding Company to Acquire Harris Farms’ Beef Operations

Harris Farms, Inc. (“Harris Farms”) Owner John Harris and Central Valley Meat Company, Inc. President and CEO Brian Coelho announced today that Central Valley Meat Holding Company will acquire Harris Ranch Beef Holding Company (“Harris Ranch Beef”), including its wholly owned subsidiaries, Harris Feeding Company and Harris Ranch Beef Company. Financial terms of the transaction were not disclosed.

“We have known and respected John Harris and Harris Ranch Beef for decades, and I am pleased to have this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to continue the business’ family-owned legacy and pursue its tremendous potential for growth here in the Central Valley,” said Mr. Coelho. “While Central Valley Meat Company and Harris Ranch Beef will continue to ...

Verde Strengthens Market Leadership with Appointment of Two Meat Industry Veterans

Verde Farms, the leading U.S. provider of 100% grass-fed, 100% free-range, organic beef has added Marc Broccoli, Vice President of Operations, and Matthew Landis, Vice President of Sales to its leadership team.

At grocery, more than half of shoppers (54%) want to see their stores carry more grass-fed beef, as well as products free from antibiotics and hormones (52%).* This interest is directly reflected in year-over-year sales growth across the grass-fed category.* As Verde continues to lead the industry with its 100% grass-fed, 100% free-range, Never Ever, and organic products, the addition of these two strategic hires will help Verde drive further innovation and accelerate growth in ...

JBS Plainwell, Inc. Recalls Ground Beef Products

JBS Plainwell, Inc., a Plainwell, Mich. establishment, is recalling approximately 43,292 pounds of ground beef products that may be contaminated with extraneous materials, specifically, pieces of hard plastic, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today.

The ground beef loaf products were produced on March 20, 2019. The following products are subject to recall ...

CHART: Industry Expectations for Weekly Cattle Slaughter

Applegate to Bring an All-Star Lineup of Ballpark Fare to Fans this Summer

Applegate, the nation’s leading natural and organic meat brand, and Minor League Baseball™ (MiLB™) have announced a homerun partnership that will bring cleaner options of classic ballpark favorites to stadiums across the country this summer. As the first-ever “Official Natural and Organic Meat of Minor League Baseball,” Applegate will be putting in some of its power hitters and serving up Better Flippin’ Meat, including THE CLEANER WIENER™ – APPLEGATE NATURALS® Beef Hot Dog and THE GREAT ORGANIC BLEND BURGER™ BEEF BURGER, one of the brand’s newest innovations at MiLB ballparks this season.

When the Minor League Baseball season kicks off with Opening Night on April 4th, a stellar line up of APPLEGATE® brand clean eats will be available in concessions at select ballparks across the country. Throughout the season, Applegate also will ...

Meet Chuck Knows Beef: Beef. It’s What’s For Dinner. Launches All-Knowing Virtual Beef Assistant

Beef goes virtual as the iconic Beef. It’s What’s For Dinner. brand brings the knowledge of a rancher, the expertise of a chef, and the humor of a dad into the kitchen with the official launch of Chuck Knows Beef, a new beef virtual assistant. Powered by Google Artificial Intelligence and developed in partnership with VMLY&R, a leading digital marketing agency, Chuck is the new virtual go-to expert on all things beef. Chuck can be easily accessed at ChuckKnowsBeef.com or by simply enabling Chuck Knows Beef with Amazon Alexa or Google Home Assistant devices.

Funded by beef farmers and ranchers and designed to be a go-to consumer resource for beef knowledge and recipe inspiration, Chuck provides instant access to recipes, cuts and nutrition information and cooking tips– plus a whole lot more. Consumers can ask Chuck questions like ...

AdvancePierre Foods, Inc. Recalls Frozen Beef Patties

AdvancePierre Foods, Inc., an Enid, Okla. establishment, is recalling approximately 20,373 pounds of ready-to-eat (RTE) beef patties that may be contaminated with extraneous materials, specifically soft purple plastic, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today.

The frozen RTE flame broiled beef patties were produced on Nov. 30, 2018. The following products are subject to recall ...

CHART: Industry Expectations for Weekly Cattle Slaughter