State Beef Councils Win Major Legal Victory

The Beef Checkoff program and fifteen grassroots-led state beef councils won a major court victory today when the United States District Court of Montana ruled in favor of USDA and the Montana Beef Council in the matter of R-CALF vs. Sonny Perdue and USDA.

NCBA praised the court’s decision, which ends a legal battle that has spanned more than three years and interrupted beef promotion functions in Montana. The case had threatened local input and promotion efforts at the state level across the country.

“The foundation of the Beef Checkoff has always been state beef councils that collect checkoff funds and determine how those investments are used for research, marketing and...

CHART: Industry Expectations for Weekly Cattle Slaughter

Industry Reacts to Senate Passage of the Coronavirus Stimulus Package

The $2 trillion coronavirus stimulus package is expected to pass in Congress. The Senate passed the legislation Wednesday evening and the House is set to vote today. The bill includes $250 billion to make unemployment insurance available to more categories of workers and to extend the duration of benefits. About $150 billion will go to states, distributed according to population size. Another $349 billion will be used as loans for small businesses.

Matthew Shay, President and CEO of the National Retail Federation, said, "Companies that were investing, growing and contributing to a vibrant economy just a few weeks ago have been thrust into survival mode through no fault of their own." The Federation spoke on behalf of the retail industry in a press release by expressing appreciation for the efforts by leaders in Congress and President Trump to...

Meat Sales Surged 77% the Week of March 15 Amid Growing COVID-19 Cases

The week ending March 8 saw a fast acceleration of meat sales in dollars, units and volume. As the number of school closures, social distancing guidelines and other COVID-19 related measures significantly sharpened the subsequent week, sales surged along with it. Thanks to the heroic efforts of everyone in the meat and poultry industry, the supply kept flowing. Retailers restocked their meat cases again and again as shoppers across the country stocked up on meat and poultry to feed their families nutritious meals.

Meat department sales without deli meat were up an incredible 76.9% over the week ending March 15, 2020 versus the comparable week in 2019, according to data insights firm IRI, and deli meat sales advanced...

USDA Announces Expanded Red Meat Access to China as Phase One Trade Deal Moves Forward

The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the United States Trade Representative (USTR) announced continued progress in the implementation of agriculture provisions in the U.S.-China Phase One Agreement.

The new actions are led by increased access for red meat and poultry into China. According to the statement, U.S. beef producers, for the first time since 2003, will have access to nearly all beef products into China.

An expansion of pork products that will be allowed into Chinese ports was also included in the...

Protein Alternatives Market Outlook to 2025; Dominated by Cargill

According to ResearchAndMarkets, the global protein alternatives market is projected to grow with a CAGR of 7.4% during the forecast period (2020-2025).

The market studied has witnessed a significant growth due to the increasing intolerance toward animal protein, thereby leading to the shift in preference of the meat-consuming population toward meat substitutes made of vegan protein, therefore, driving the market studied.

Consumers in developing regions, like Asia-Pacific and Africa, have started to incorporate more protein in their daily diets. Many companies operating in the market place have started to initiate...

USMEF Statement on Expanded Access to China for U.S. Beef and Pork

The USDA Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) has updated its Export Library for China to reflect expanded access for U.S. beef and pork. These changes were among the provisions negotiated in the U.S.-China “Phase One” trade agreement.

U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF) President and CEO Dan Halstrom issued the following statement:

"This is an exciting day for the U.S. beef and pork industries, which have waited a long time to have more meaningful and reliable access to China, and USMEF thanks USTR and USDA for their tireless efforts to negotiate and implement the...

CHART: Industry Expectations for Weekly Cattle Slaughter

NCBA Sends Letter to Capitol Hill Urging Relief for Cattle Producers

In response to the ongoing efforts to provide relief to Americans impacted by the COVID-19 crisis, NCBA Vice President of Government Affairs Ethan Lane issued the following statement:

“As the country reels both economically and emotionally from the spread of COVID-19, NCBA has been hard at work ensuring that cattle producers remain able to focus on the national infrastructure priority of keeping high-quality beef available to consumers.

“Meeting that challenge requires federal officials at the Departments of Agriculture, Transportation, Interior, Treasury, and more to have a full understanding of how our product gets from the pasture to the plate – and...

ANALYSIS: Record Cattle Basis – Driven By Steep Losses in CME and Retail Buying Support

Assuming April live cattle close limit up today, March 19, 2020 at $95.10, that is a $17.90 spread from yesterday's $113 live trade in the South compared to...

CHART: Industry Expectations for Weekly Cattle Slaughter

Rapid Start to 2020 for U.S. Pork Exports; Beef Exports also Trend Higher

Following a record-breaking performance in 2019, U.S. pork exports maintained a torrid pace in January, according to data released by USDA and compiled by the U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF). January beef exports were also higher year-over-year, while exports of U.S. lamb trended lower.

January pork exports cooled slightly from the volume and value records established in December 2019, but still far exceeded year-ago levels. Both the January export volume of 273,603 metric tons (mt), up 36% year-over-year, and export value ($738.7 million, up 50%) were the second highest on record. Export value per head slaughtered was $62.53, up 40% from a year ago. Exports accounted for 29.8% of total pork production and...

Hormel Launches Pepperoni Cup N' Crisp 

The makers of Hormel Pepperoni announced the launch of Hormel Pepperoni Cup N' Crisp, a premium pizza topping uniquely crafted to cup and crisp, bringing high-quality restaurant flavor to kitchen tables everywhere.

Unlike traditional lay flat pepperoni, Hormel Pepperoni Cup N' Crisp curls into a bowl shape as it cooks to crispy perfection. Also known as "roni cups" or "cup and char" pepperoni, Hormel Pepperoni Cup N' Crisp provides an experience that no other retail pepperoni can provide.

"Few things satisfy your senses and capture your attention more than a pepperoni pizza fresh out of the oven," said Shane Ward, Hormel Pepperoni brand manager. "Hormel Pepperoni Cup N' Crisp is intensely flavored and...

CHART: Industry Expectations for Weekly Cattle Slaughter

Nutri-Score May Shake Up the Plant Based Alternative Protein Shelf

According to Rabobank, Nutri-Score is likely to challenge consumers’ perceptions in their choice for alternative protein products. Making consumers aware of a food’s nutritional values is what the roll-out of the front-of-pack label in the coming months and years is intended to do in the European market. In this way, Nutri-Score may lead health-driven consumers to change their preferences and processors to change their formulations.

Nutri-Score is a front-of-pack labeling system that grades food products from A to E according to their nutritional level. It has been launched to nudge consumers to make healthier choices in their food preferences and has already been adopted by several...

Rabobank Beef Quarterly Q1: China in the Front Seat for Beef Imports in 2020

We are yet again experiencing a major disruption to one of the world’s largest beef importers, China. “The outbreak of the coronavirus in China has had a major impact on foodservice and trade. With foodservice as the main channel for sales, beef is expected to feel the impact more than others. Indications from the 2003 SARS outbreak suggest that once the virus is contained, sales and trade should rebound quickly. However, the timeframe for control remains uncertain,” according to senior animal protein analyst Angus Gidley-Baird.

In other developments:

US trade deals

Progress was made on the USMCA, and the Japan/US trade deal was approved in December. These were closely followed by the signing of the phase-one US-China trade agreement in January. Although questions remain on...

Packaged Facts: Global Meat Consumption On the Rise

While meat-eaters are increasingly trying plant-based protein options, meat consumption worldwide is expected to increase 1.4% per year through 2023, according to data published in the new Packaged Facts report Global Meat & Poultry Trends.

Meat and poultry consumption in the U.S. is expected to increase less than 1.0% per year through 2023, but greater gains are projected in other parts of the world. Most notably, nations in Africa and the Middle East are forecast to register the fastest increases in meat consumption, as rising living standards and income levels allow more people to incorporate meat into their regular diet.

"In many parts of the world, meat is among the least affordable food options. It is generally pricier than locally available grains, beans, vegetables, and fruit. However, as average incomes rise, more people to eat meat, first as...

Impossible Burger Named the Preferred Plant Based Burger of Disney Parks and Cruises 

Impossible Foods announces a new strategic alliance today with Disney Parks, Experiences and Products. As part of the alliance, the food tech startup’s flagship product – Impossible Burger – will be designated as the “Preferred Plant-Based Burger” of Walt Disney World Resort, Disneyland Resort and Disney Cruise Line.

On February 28, Disney will debut Impossible Foods menu items at the Disney California Adventure Food & Wine Festival, including:

• Petite Impossible Burger with Guac and Pepper Jack Cheese at Avocado Time Marketplace
• Impossible Cheeseburger Mac & Cheese at Nuts About Cheese Marketplace
• Impossible Meatball Submarine at...

NCBA Statement on Beef from Brazil

National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) Senior Director, International Trade and Market Access, Kent Bacus today released the following statement in response to the U.S. Department of Agriculture restoring access to the U.S. for Brazilian beef:

“NCBA strongly supports science-based trade and the Trump Administration’s efforts to enforce science-based trade with all trade partners. But to be clear, NCBA has serious concerns about the re-entry of Brazilian beef to the U.S. market.

“NCBA has frequently questioned the lack of scientific evidence that was used to justify Brazil’s initial access to the U.S. market in 2016, and unfortunately, we were not surprised when Brazil forfeited its beef access to the U.S. in 2017 due to numerous food safety violations. NCBA praised Secretary Perdue for standing up for science-based trade and holding Brazil accountable for their numerous violations by...

CHART: Industry Expectations for Weekly Cattle Slaughter 

FSIS Lifts Suspension on Brazil’s Exports of Raw Intact Beef Products to the U.S.

FSIS takes very seriously the responsibility to ensure the safety of meat, poultry, and processed egg products for American consumers. FSIS recently conducted a targeted, on-site equivalence verifcation audit of Brazil’s raw intact beef products to verify the implementation of corrective actions in response to several audits and technical discussions since FSIS suspended the export of raw intact beef from Brazil in 2017.

FSIS uses a three-pronged approach to verify that a foreign country’s inspection system for imported meat, poultry, and processed egg products achieves an equivalent level of public health protection as the U.S. inspection system...

Tyson Foods States Company is Uniquely Positioned to Meet Global Protein Demand 

Tyson Foods, Inc. CEO Noel White reiterated today at the Consumer Analyst Group of New York annual conference that, “Tyson Foods’ scale, diversified portfolio, international footprint and financial track record uniquely position the company for continued, long-term growth at a time when there’s growing global demand for protein.”

Dean Banks, who recently joined Tyson Foods as its president, said, “We have a global opportunity and innovation across our portfolio is the key,” adding, “I have a passion for innovation and have been impressed with the innovation culture at Tyson Foods.”

Banks highlighted Tyson Air Fried Perfectly Crispy Chicken, Tyson Instant Pot Kits, Jimmy Dean Omelet Minis, Jimmy Dean Loaded Sausage Bites, Hillshire Snacking Bruschetta and Pact as examples of...

Burger King Launches Ad Campaign About Removing Artificial Preservatives from the Whopper

The Burger King brand has pulled a surprising, global, integrated advertising campaign showing its iconic Whopper sandwich covered in mold. Yes, you read it right. A Whopper sandwich covered in mold.

Instead of featuring its product with the classic, flawless, and often perfect photographic style commonly used to showcase fast food products, the Burger King brand let its most iconic product rot to make a powerful statement: The brand has achieved a milestone by...

White Castle to Complement Impossible Slider with Dairy-Free Cheese at Select Locations

White Castle will soon become one of the first fast-food hamburger chains in the U.S. to offer a dairy-free alternative to cheddar cheese. White Castle announced that it will launch the non-dairy product on March 1 in its New Jersey and New York City restaurants.

Customers will be able to order dairy free cheddar to top any slider, including the Impossible Slider, the plant-based slider that White Castle introduced in April 2018 as a test item and then launched as a permanent menu item five months later.

"Our Impossible Slider was an instant Craver favorite, but it's about to get a new dimension with...

CHART: Industry Expectations for Weekly Cattle Slaughter

Certified Angus Beef Brand Advances Leadership Team

The Certified Angus Beef brand was born of innovation—a spirit that's spurred four decades of bringing families together from gate to plate. To continue supporting this thriving community and network of premium beef partners, the brand recently evolved its leadership team, recognizing several retirements, promotions and new team members.

"We've had a long track record of strong leaders, and that's true as we look to those who have stepped up to guide our next 40 years," says John F. Stika, president. "It takes a dedicated and creative group of people to move this brand forward, and...

Marty Smith of Florida Elected President of National Cattlemen’s Beef Association

Fifth-generation Florida rancher Marty Smith was elected president of the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) at the annual Cattle Industry Convention this afternoon. He replaces Jennifer Houston of Sweetwater, Tenn., 2019 NCBA president.

Smith operates Smith Brothers-Wacahoota, LLC, a cow-calf operation in Central Florida, that has been in continuous operation since 1852. It retains ownership through feedlots in Texas, Kansas and Iowa.

Smith graduated from the University of Georgia with a BSA in Agricultural Economics and Animal Science. While at UGA, he was on the livestock judging team and served as president of Ag Hill Council. He was also active in...

Tyson Fresh Meats and Jacob Stern & Sons Launch Joint Venture

Tyson Fresh Meats, the beef and pork subsidiary of Tyson Foods, and Jacob Stern & Sons, Inc. have launched a joint venture, JST Global, LLC, to serve the worldwide fats and oils market. Specific terms of the venture are not being disclosed.

Beef and pork by-products of the fresh meats business, along with fats and oils derived from other sources, are key ingredients in thousands of products in such diverse industries as pharmaceuticals, personal care, and animal nutrition, plus the rapidly developing field of renewable fuels.

“Jacob Stern and Tyson Fresh Meats have enjoyed a strong relationship for over 50 years. Combining Tyson’s vast supply of animal fats with Jacob Stern’s Texas operations is...

Family Traditions Meat Company Recalls Ready-to-Eat Meat Stick Products 

Family Traditions Meat Company, an Ackley, Iowa establishment, is recalling approximately 270 pounds of ready-to-eat (RTE) beef stick products 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 milk, a known allergen, which is not declared on the product label.

The fully cooked, ready-to-eat beef stick items were produced on Nov. 14, 2019, Dec. 3, 2019 and Jan. 6, 2020 and have a shelf life of six months. The following product is subject to recall...

NCBA Releases Consumer Research Showing Widespread Confusion About Contents of Plant-Based Fake Meat

The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) today released survey results that show widespread consumer confusion regarding the ingredient composition and purported benefits of plant-based fake meat products.

In an online survey of more than 1,800 consumers, less than half of the respondents understood the labeling term “plant-based beef” was intended to describe an entirely vegetarian or vegan food product. One major source of confusion uncovered by NCBA’s research is that approximately one third of surveyed consumers believed that plant-based fake meat products contained at least some real beef in them. When asked to evaluate specific product labels and marketing materials from some of the leading plant-based fake beef products currently on the market, the results were astonishing...

U.S. Pork Exports Record-Large in 2019, Approaching $7 Billion; Beef Export Value Tops $8 Billion

U.S. pork exports posted new volume and value records in 2019, reaching nearly $7 billion, according to data released by USDA and compiled by the U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF). Exports of U.S. beef were below the previous year’s record levels, while lamb export volume was the second largest on record.

Pork exports soared to 282,145 metric tons (mt) in December, up 34% year-over-year and surpassing the previous high (set in November 2019) by 9%. Export value was $760 million, up a remarkable 44% from a year ago and breaking the previous record (also from November 2019) by 7%. These results pushed 2019 exports 10% above...

Tyson Foods Reports First Quarter 2020 Results

Tyson Foods, Inc., 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 Quarter Highlights

• GAAP EPS of $1.52, up 1% from prior year; Adjusted EPS of $1.66, up 5% from prior year
• GAAP operating income of $826 million, up 2% from prior year
• Adjusted operating income of $894 million, up 6% from prior year...

Brazil Beef Exports Jump on Strong Chinese Demand

Brazilian beef exports rose by 9.84% in January driven by a surge in sales to China, which faces fallout from a deadly disease that decimated a major portion of its pig population and boosted demand for other meats, trade group Abiec said on Wednesday.

Brazil's beef exports totaled 135,375 tonnes in the first month of the year, generating sales of $633.25 million, Abiec said.

“This is a positive result and in line with our growth estimates for this year," Antônio Camardelli, president of Abiec, said in a statement.

Shipments to China alone were 53,200 tonnes, an increase of...

Certified Angus Beef Brand Launches Steakholder Rewards Loyalty Program

The Certified Angus Beef brand has introduced Steakholder Rewards, a loyalty program that shares beef know-how with consumers, and rewards them for connecting with the brand and purchasing the beef at locations that feature it.

"Steakholder Rewards allows consumers to elevate the experience they have come to expect from the Certified Angus Beef brand, while also growing our conversations with a wider audience base," says Tracey Erickson, the brand's executive vice president of marketing. "It is built on delivering experiences that...

NCBA 2020 Policy Priorities

This morning, the Executive Committee of the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) approved the organization’s top 2020 Policy Priorities. Approval came at the annual Cattle Industry Convention in San Antonio, Texas.

Like last year, NCBA’s top policy priorities include issues related to international trade, proper regulation of fake meat, and regulatory reform, although after a series of significant policy victories in 2019, this year’s priority list is focused on implementing and protecting those gains while further advancing progress into new territory.

For example, after helping secure bilateral trade deals with Japan, China, and the European Union, as well as the ratification of the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement, NCBA’s focus this year will turn to...

Cargill Conducts Voluntary Recall of a Single Lot of NutreBeef Transition Pellet 

Cargill’s animal nutrition business is conducting a voluntary recall of a single lot (382 bags, 50 lb each) of NutreBeef Transition Pellet (MH) beef cattle feed because the product may contain mispackaged feed with elevated levels of monensin. The affected product was sold in Kansas and Texas. At elevated levels, monensin can be toxic to cattle and can cause colic-like symptoms, hypokalemia (low potassium), myoglobinuria (breakdown of muscle in the urine), chronic cardiovascular issues, and possible death.

The following affected product was manufactured at Cargill’s McPherson, KS, facility and is being recalled from...

CHART: Industry Expectations for Weekly Cattle Slaughter 

Ranchers Urge Congress to Oppose Voluntary Grazing Permit Retirement Act

The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) and Public Lands Council (PLC) announced opposition to H.R. 5737, the Voluntary Grazing Permit Retirement Act, introduced yesterday by Rep. Adam Smith (D-WA). The bill would require federal land management agencies to permanently end livestock grazing on any allotments where the current permittee has accepted a payout in exchange for relinquishment of their term grazing permit.

“Grazing is an essential and irreplaceable tool for federal land managers,” said fifth-generation Oregon rancher and PLC President Bob Skinner. “Depriving them of this tool—the oldest of the multiple-uses—in order to...

Carl’s Jr. and Hardee’s Offer Free Beyond Meat Menu Items the Monday After Sunday’s Big Game

Carl’s Jr. and Hardee’s are encouraging Americans who overindulged during Sunday’s Big Game to recover with a plant-based Monday by enjoying an item from the all-day Beyond Meat menu. Monday, February 3, recovering Americans can use the phrase “Beyond the Game” to unlock one free Beyond Meat menu item with the purchase of any large drink, including soft drinks, coffee and cold brew, at participating locations.

The day after Sunday’s Big Game is notoriously the most skipped workday in America, with an estimated 17.2 million Americans missing work. Knowing the woes of adulting on one of the worst Mondays of the year, Carl’s Jr. and Hardee’s are...

Rabobank Talks Alternative Protein Surprises

Rabobank kicks off the first note of the decade by sharing some of the main highlights from their annual ‘We Didn’t See That Coming’ survey of food trends. At the end of every year, for the past five years, Rabobank has asked in confidence the simple but highly revealing question: “In the world of food, what surprised you the most over the last twelve months?”

The main surprise can be summed up as the ‘the rapid growth and consumer acceptance of alternative proteins.’ For ease of digestion Rabobank has broken it into four sections...

CHART: Industry Expectations for Weekly Cattle Slaughter

Denny's Expands Partnership with Beyond Meat and Launches Popular Plant-Based Beyond Burger

After the overwhelmingly successful Beyond Burger launch exclusively in Los Angeles restaurants, Denny's will now offer the popular plant-based burger made by Beyond Meat in more than 1,700 locations across the U.S. and Canada. To celebrate this milestone, Denny's is offering a free Beyond Burger with the purchase of any beverage at all participating locations on January 30 from 11am to 10pm, while supplies last.

The newest addition to Denny's core menu, the Denny's Beyond Burger features...

Amity Packing Company Recalls Raw Ground Beef Products

Amity Packing Company Inc., a Chicago, Ill. establishment, is recalling approximately 2,020 pounds of raw ground beef products that may be contaminated with extraneous materials, specifically clear, thin pliable plastic, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today.

The raw ground beef items were produced on Jan. 6, 2020. The following products are subject to recall...

Sweet Earth Awesome Burger Enters First National Restaurant Partnership with Ruby Tuesday

Sweet Earth Foods, an award-winning and rapidly growing plant-based food innovator, announced Ruby Tuesday as its first-ever national restaurant partner for the Sweet Earth Awesome Burger.

Ruby Tuesday will offer the Sweet Earth Awesome Burger as an off-menu plant-based protein through mid-March, with the potential to become a permanent menu item. Customers can also substitute the meatless Awesome Burger patty as part of any of the restaurant's wide variety of signature burger offerings.

"At Ruby Tuesday, our focus is to provide freshly prepared, high-quality meal options that are full of flavor at an affordable price," said Jenifer Boyd Harmon, Chief Marketing Officer for Ruby Tuesday. "We know many of our customers have...

Tyson Foods Initiates Coalition to Advance the Future of Sustainable Protein

Tyson Foods, Inc. today announced the creation of the Coalition for Global Protein, a multi-stakeholder initiative to advance the future of sustainable protein.

To mark the launch of the Coalition, Tyson Foods is convening leaders from the global protein industry, which includes all forms of protein, as well as academia, non-governmental organizations and financial institutions this week at Davos, Switzerland, alongside the 50th World Economic Forum Annual Meeting. The goal is to unite stakeholders across the food and agriculture sector to identify and implement new and creative solutions to sustainably feed the world’s growing population. The conversation will be moderated by Dr. Lawrence Haddad, executive director of Global Alliance for Improved Nutrition.

“Efforts to make the production of high-protein foods more sustainable must continue,” said Dr. Haddad. “These foods, many from animal sources, are vital for the healthy growth of young children, especially those...

CHART: Industry Expectations for Weekly Cattle Slaughter

Krave Launches New Plant-Based Jerky and Pork Rinds

Krave continues to expand its portfolio of high-quality, better-for-you snacks with two new crave-worthy products: KRAVE Plant-Based Jerky and KRAVE Pork Rinds. Hitting store shelves nationwide in January 2020, the new products deliver the same quality-without-compromise inherent to the KRAVE brand while catering to the evolving dietary needs and on-the-go snacking occasions consumers experience every day.

As KRAVE's first departure from meat products, KRAVE Plant-Based Jerky is perfect for flexitarians and those looking to incorporate more plant-based foods into their diets. KRAVE Plant-Based Jerky features a taste and texture similar to that of KRAVE Gourmet Meat Cuts but is made from...

Western Ranchers Welcome BLM Action to Improve Grazing Regulations

Western ranchers welcomed a Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Notice of Intent (NOI), which appeared in today’s Public Inspection and will publish in the Federal Register on January 21st, announcing that the agency is preparing an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) on new grazing regulations. The NOI opened a public comment period and announced that in-person scoping meetings will be held across the West.

“This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity for BLM permittees to set the record straight,” said Dr. J.J. Goicoechea who chairs the NCBA Federal Lands Committee and PLC’s Grazing Regulations Working Group. “We have endured Bruce Babbitt’s ‘Range Reform’ for over 25 years—and the land, native grasses, and...

Sysco Announces U.S. Launch of Sysco Simply Plant-Based Burger Patty

Sysco Corporation, the leading global foodservice distribution company, announced the launch of its Sysco Simply Plant-Based Meatless Burger Patty, a Sysco brand exclusive product. This innovative burger is now available to the company’s customers in the majority of its U.S. markets.

This plant-based burger is the latest offering from Sysco Simply, the company’s lifestyle brand designed to help foodservice operators meet growing consumer demand for flexible and customized menu choices. The Sysco Simply burger is a vegan, gluten-free, non-GMO soy patty with 18 grams of plant-based protein per serving, helping foodservice operators...

Industry Applauds Senate Ratification of the USMCA 

The Senate passed the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement, by a bipartisan vote of 89-10. The USMCA will advance United States agricultural interests in two of the most important markets for American farmers, ranchers, and agribusiness. The agreement builds upon existing markets to expand U.S. food and agricultural exports while supporting food processing and rural jobs. Canada and Mexico are the first and second largest export markets for U.S. food and agricultural products, totaling more than $39.7 billion food and agricultural exports in 2018, supporting 325,000 American jobs. Now, the USMCA will be heading to President Trump's desk for his signature.

Sonny Perdue, U.S. Secretary of Agriculture, said, "We’ve long waited for this day and now USMCA will finally head to the President’s desk. The passage of USMCA is great news for America’s farmers and ranchers. With Congressional consideration now complete...

Burger King Adds the Impossible Whopper to the 2 for $6 Lineup

Burger King restaurants are jazzing up the popular 2 for $6 promotion, now with the Impossible Whopper sandwich. Available for a limited time only, guests can choose between the Impossible Whopper, Spicy Crispy Chicken, Crispy Chicken and Whopper sandwich.

“We are excited to offer our guests a plant-based product like the Impossible Whopper as part of our 2 for $6 promotion,” said Chris Finazzo, President, North America, Burger King Corporation. “This unbeatable deal gives friends and family a new reason to come in and try the Impossible Whopper and other BK favorites at an amazing value.”

Burger King restaurants rolled out the Impossible Whopper sandwich with a patty made from plants nationwide last year following...

What the Trade Agreement with China Means for the Meat and Poultry Industry

The Phase One economic and trade agreement signed by the United States and China on January 15, 2020, will provide U.S. exporters of beef, pork, and poultry, as well as live breeding cattle with expanded access to China’s rapidly growing market.

Market Overview: As incomes rise in China, demand for protein in diets increases as well. Chinese demand for imported beef, pork, and poultry is growing at a rapid rate, made more acute due to domestic pork supply constraints in China as a result of the ongoing outbreak of African swine fever. When China partially re-opened its market to U.S. beef and beef products in 2017, following a 13-year ban, many unscientific restrictions remained, including...

Industry Reacts to Phase One Trade Agreement with China 

President Donald Trump signed a Phase One trade agreement with China today. The agreement says that China will increase purchases of U.S. manufacturing, energy, and agricultural goods and services by at least $200 billion over two years. As part of the deal, the Trump Administration scrapped tariffs initially set to take effect in December, and agreed to cut tariffs on $120 billion in products to 7.5%. However, tariffs on another $250 billion in Chinese goods will remain in place for now. Steven Mnuchin, Treasury Secretary, stated a second phase could include more tariff relief.

The National Cattlemen's Beef Association applauded the signing of the deal with China, saying the agreement will lay the groundwork for American-produced beef to be highly competitive in the world's most populous market. “The Phase One Agreement with China will be a game changer for the U.S. beef industry. For many years, Chinese consumers have been...

Beyond Meat and Roquette Announce Multi-Year Pea Protein Supply Agreement 

Beyond Meat, a leader in plant-based meat, today announced a multi-year pea protein supply agreement with Roquette, a global leader in plant-based ingredients and a pioneer of plant proteins. The supply agreement builds on a longstanding partnership that began approximately ten years ago, and significantly increases the amount of pea protein to be supplied by Roquette to Beyond Meat over the next three years as compared to the amount supplied in 2019.

Ethan Brown, Beyond Meat’s Founder & CEO commented, “This latest contract with Roquette reflects Beyond Meat's commitment to further scaling the plant protein supply chain as global demand for our products continues to rise. Along with our supply chain partners, including Roquette, we are driving innovation and...

Certified Angus Beef: Consumer Demand, Ample Supply Spur Growth 

For a mature brand, sales growth, particularly over several consecutive years, is far from guaranteed. Sure, having a high quality product helps. But sustained success takes intention, a focus on shared goals, and commitment from the entire community behind the brand, said John Stika, president of Certified Angus Beef LLC.It’s a recipe for achievement that succeeded once again for the Certified Angus Beef brand in fiscal 2019. For the 13th year in a row, the brand saw record global sales. It was also the 15th consecutive year of sales growth.

The brand’s global network of nearly 19,000 licensed processor, foodservice and retail partners marketed 1.25 billion pounds of product, a 3.1% increase—or an additional...

TGI Fridays Kicks Off 2020 with Dinners for Two Starting at $20

TGI Fridays has announced it's kicking off 2020 by giving people the opportunity to get together more often, starting with its launch of Fridays Feast. Beginning January 13, guests can visit their favorite local Fridays and enjoy a complete three-course meal for two (two apps + two entrees + two desserts) starting at just $20. This menu offering is a delicious and affordable solution for guests who resolved to have more affordable together time with friends and family.

"We are excited to invite guests to come together over Fridays Feast," said Cindy Syracuse, TGI Fridays vice president of marketing. "Fridays knows a delicious meal at a great price offers a valuable opportunity for...

Chlorine-Washed Chicken and Hormone-Treated Beef Ban to Remain After Brexit

Chlorine-washed chicken and hormone-treated beef will not be allowed into the UK under any trade deal with the US, the Environment Secretary has told the BBC’s Countryfile program.

In an exclusive interview, Theresa Villiers told presenter Tom Heap that the current EU ban on such imports will be carried over into UK legislation following Brexit.

Ms Villiers said: “We will not be importing chlorinated-chicken. We will not be importing hormone-treated beef. Both of those are...

Impossible Foods CEO Criticizes Meat Industry; Intends to Replace Animals for Food Production

Pat Brown, CEO of Impossible Foods, criticized the meat industry in a recent interview, calling it "the most destructive technology on Earth by far." Brown added that the company's ultimate goal is to completely replace animals as a form of food with plant-based products by the year 2035. Impossible Foods currently offers a plant-based beef burger, and a new sausage product will be offered at various Burger King locations across the United States for testing this month. The company also announced that it will introduce ground pork and sausage, but there is no word on availability at this time. With beef and pork alternatives becoming readily available to consumers, Brown stated that poultry options are on the way as well.

Brown claims that Impossible Foods is so important because of the impact the meat industry has on the environment. However, testifying on behalf of the National Cattlemen's Beef Association at a U.S. Senate Agriculture Committee hearing on climate change in May, Kansas cattle producer Debbie Lyons-Blythe delivered a clear message...

U.S. Per Capita Availability of Red Meat, Poultry, and Seafood on the Rise

After falling from 148.6 pounds in 2004 to 133.5 pounds in 2014, the per capita supply of red meat, poultry, and fish/shellfish available for Americans to eat after adjusting for losses rose to 143.9 pounds in 2017. Red meat (beef, pork, veal, and lamb) accounted for 51 percent of 2017’s 143.9-pound total, compared with 42 percent for poultry (chicken and turkey) and 7 percent for fish and shellfish.

ERS calculates per capita loss-adjusted food availability in a given year by taking per capita supplies of food available for human consumption and adjusting for some of the spoilage, plate waste, and other losses in grocery stores, restaurants, and homes to more closely approximate consumption. Over 2015-17, beef had the...

CHART: Industry Expectatons for Weekly Cattle Slaughter

Walmart Opens Case-Ready Facility in Thomasville, Creates 200 Local Jobs

Walmart announced the opening of a case-ready facility that is part of the company’s new Angus beef supply chain. Governor Brian Kemp joined Walmart executives today to celebrate the opening of the company’s 201,000 square foot, state-of-the-art facility in Thomasville, GA. Walmart began construction on the facility in August 2018. It is operated by FPL foods and brings 200+ jobs to Georgia.

“Today, we celebrate 200 new jobs for talented Georgians,” said Gov. Kemp. “Walmart has a long history in Georgia, I am thrilled that the company selected Thomasville as the location for this facility. It’s a vote of confidence...

ANALYSIS: Variety Meat Exports to Mexico See an Impressive Increase in Value YoY

According to data released by the USDA and compiled by the USMEF, November exports of beef were below the previous year's large totals. However, in Mexico, exports increased...

Ranchers Approve of NEPA Changes

President Trump announced noteworthy changes to the National Environmental Policy Act that would make it easier for federal agencies to approve infrastructure projects. NEPA was first introduced in 1970 to create and maintain conditions under which humans and nature can coexist, and has not undergone changes since 1986. Ranchers must be reviewed under NEPA for many reasons, but most common examples include renewal of a term grazing permit, construction of range improvements, or for eligibility to participate in USDA programs. However, due to litigation, outside pressure, and an abundance of caution, these costly processes can be further delayed. These delays create...

Tofurky Announces New Plant-Based Burger

Tofurky announced its new beef-style burger is now available in over 600 Target locations in the U.S. The new Plant-Based Burger by Tofurky is crafted using a combination of soy protein, vegetable protein, and wheat gluten and lightly seasoned with salt, onion, garlic, and black pepper. It can be found for an SRP of $5.99 in the produce section.

In addition to offering a tasty yet versatile flavor profile, the new burgers are created with Tofurky’s usual focus on the planet. The burger’s soy base claims a more sustainable footprint (given the ability to use all parts of the bean) when compared to pea protein, found in competitive products. Its two-patty packs will use sturdy, recyclable cartons that tout...

McDonald’s Expanding Trials of Plant-Based Burger in Canada

McDonald’s announced the trial of its Beyond Meat burger has expanded to more locations in Canada as it attempts to gain feedback on its new plant-based menu item.

The burger will be available in 52 restaurants in Southwestern Ontario, starting on January 14. The sandwich, dubbed, “P.L.T.” for plant, lettuce, tomato was introduced to test markets last September in 28 restaurants in Ontario and nearby regions.

“The initial test of the P.L.T. allowed us to learn more about guest demand and how to integrate this new menu item into restaurant..."

REPORTER: Export Sales and Processing Capacity Critical Issues for U.S. Pork, Beef Industries 

Looking back on the events of 2019 makes it clear just how important export sales and having adequate processing capacity are for the U.S. pork and beef markets.

The cattle markets were rolling along through the spring and into the summer with one of the strongest demand periods in recent years. Then, in early August, news of a fire at a plant in Kansas, and predictions that the damage was extensive enough to likely keep the facility from resuming cattle harvest operations the balance of the year, led...

REPORTER: 2019 Snapshot of Beef Varieties

The arrival of summer weather was somewhat delayed in 2019—disappointing news for some but supportive conditions for the beef varieties market. Beef varieties trend during the cold months—and...