North American Meat Institute Statement on Cattle Contract Library Act

The North American Meat Institute, a trade association for meat and poultry packers and processors of all sizes, today released the following statement regarding the Cattle Contract Library Act of 2021, H.R. 5609, which was marked up and reported out of the House Committee on Agriculture:

“Members of the Meat Institute are still analyzing the bill and how it might affect their operations,” said Julie Anna Potts, President and CEO of the Meat Institute. “More time is needed to consider how the bill will affect livestock producers..."

This Week in Retail: Buying Opportunities Increase for Pork

Meat and poultry features are bountiful this week as consumers hunker down for hearty home-cooked meals during chilly autumn evenings. While Halloween is just around the corner, some retailers are already showcasing Thanksgiving promotions.

This week in retail, buying opportunities were lower week-over-week for turkey and seafood features. Towards the tail-end of October National Pork Month, marketing campaigns pushed pork features higher than the previous week. Meanwhile, retail activity for chicken and beef was nearly flat with the week prior. 

Buying opportunities for seafood this week are centered around fresh/frozen fillets—namely tilapia—and raw shrimp. The fresh/frozen fillets complex makes up 33% of ad space and averages $6.89 per pound, 20.1% above a year ago. Tilapia is up 7.8% from this week last year at $5.93 per pound on average. Atlantic salmon boneless filet is also widely featured and averages $8.68 per pound, compared to $7.70 per pound last year. The raw shrimp complex claims 23% of ad space. The regional price spread for 16-20 raw ranges from $6.99 per pound to $8.99 per pound, generally on par with year-ago levels...

This Week in Retail: Spread Between Food at Home vs Away from Home Narrows

The latest Consumer Price Index (CPI) for September, released by the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), showed the food index up 0.9 percent last month after gaining 0.4 percent in August. The Food at Home (FAH) index showed a 1.2 percent over the month increase with gains across all six major food group indices. The index for meats, poultry, fish, and eggs demonstrated a 2.2 percent over the month increase. The index for dairy and related products posted the smallest increase at 0.7 percent. 

The BLS defines the CPI as the change in prices paid by consumers for goods and services. Overall, the CPI rose by 0.4 percent in September. Notably, gains in the indices for food and shelter contributed to more than half of the monthly all items increase. Over the last 12 months, the all items index rose 5.4 percent before seasonal adjustment. 

The BLS reports that the index for Food Away From Home (FAFH), which was up 0.4 percent in August, gained 0.5 percent in September. Over the last year, the FAFH index rose 4.7 percent. Increases for limited and full-service meals offset a decline in the index for food at employee sites and schools...

Crider Foods Recalls Canned Beef With Gravy Products Due to Possible Unsafe Levels of Lead 

Crider Foods, a Stillmore, Ga., establishment, is recalling approximately 525,717 pounds of canned beef with gravy products that may be contaminated with unsafe levels of lead, due to a spice mix used from an outside supplier, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today.

The canned beef with gravy product items were produced on October 22, 2020 and March 15, 2021 production dates. The following products are subject to recall:

- 12-oz. cans of...

REPORTER: Beef Grocery Prices Higher as Inflation Spills Into Food Costs

This article was originally featured in the Fall 2021 Edition of Urner Barry's Reporter magazine.

If you have filled up your grocery cart at any point during the year, you may have experienced some sticker shock along the way. While retail beef prices are down from 2020 pandemic highs, when the second run on the supermarkets coincided with reduced slaughter from COVID-19 plant shutdowns, the USDA All-Fresh Beef Retail in June was the second highest on record. And the average through...

This Week in Retail: Seafood Reigns Number One in Retail Ads This Week

Grocers' protein promotions this week included more seafood, which claimed the top spot in retail buying opportunities at about 30%. This is up from 27.3% the week prior and 25% this time last year.

The uptick in seafood featuring might be attributed to increased marketing campaigns for National Seafood Month. Organizations such as NOAA Fisheries utilize this month as a time to educate consumers about the U.S. seafood industry while sharing creative recipes to integrate fish, shrimp, and more into mealtimes and even tailgating parties. 

Retailers widely featured 16-20 raw shrimp this week at an average of $7.78 per pound. Down 7.5% from the week prior, this attractive price point could draw more consumers to the seafood case. 

The regional price spread for Atlantic Salmon boneless fillet ranged from $7.66 per pound to $8.86 per pound, generally down from week-ago levels but up on average from 2020. In the fresh/frozen fillets complex, tilapia averaged $4.99 per pound, down 8.6% from the week prior and 6.2% below 2020... 

NAMI Witness to House Ag Committee: Beef & Cattle Markets Driven by Supply & Demand

Following warnings about government intervention in beef and cattle markets from leading agricultural economists from around the country, François Léger, Owner and CEO of FPL Food, on behalf of the North American Meat Institute (Meat Institute) offered his perspective on the market as a beef packer and processor during the House Agriculture Committee’s hearing to “Review the State of the Livestock Industry.”

“The cattle and beef industry are driven by the supply and demand fundamentals of the free market, and the cattle industry is cyclical,” Léger said...

REPORTER: Lackluster Cattle Slaughter and Tight Supplies Help Lift Boxed Beef Prices

This article was originally featured in the Fall 2021 Edition of Urner Barry's Reporter magazine.

For those monitoring cattle slaughter levels, there is a common takeaway that processing capacity has not yet recovered to prepandemic levels. Production and distribution challenges due to ongoing labor shortages may continue to impact chain speeds for months to come.

Inadequate slaughter levels for the current level of demand are helping fuel a renewed rally in boxed beef prices. Following a demand-driven...

This Week in Retail: Looking Ahead to October

Don’t blink—it’s nearly October. Corn and soybean harvests are underway, sweater weather is approaching, and grocers are seeing additional opportunities to promote protein sales. Pork and seafood are receiving special accolades next month, as October is recognized as National Pork and Seafood Month.

Both campaigns are aimed at supporting farmers and encouraging household consumption by showcasing creative ways to incorporate pork and seafood into mealtimes. Whether it's for back-to-school lunches or family-time dinners, there are no shortages of pork and seafood-centric recipes to celebrate October and fall time festivities. 

Traditionally, hogs were marketed in October. These days, specialized facilities allow for year-round production. While every...

This Week in Retail: Tight Cold Storage Stocks Keep Prices Elevated for Many Meat Items

Pumpkin spice lovers, rejoice! Yesterday marked the first day of autumn and consumers are gearing up for cooler temperatures and hearty home-cooked meals. As we approach the fourth quarter, retailers are optimistic that fall-oriented demand will help maintain a strong consumer pull for meat and poultry products.  

For hog producers, autumn typically signals a period of seasonal expansion in supplies. Buying interest among packers who purchase hogs in the open market has slowed considerably in recent weeks, according to livestock dealers. This suggests that hog supplies overall are adequate for packers’ needs and current processing capacity, which continues to be strained by labor challenges...

This Week in Retail: Heat Lingers, but Grocers Look Towards Fall Demand

Heat continues to blanket much of the country in mid-September. Meanwhile, hurricane season is wreaking havoc along the eastern U.S. and Gulf Coast, with tropical storm Daniel being the latest system to rear its ugly head.

With some communities still reeling from the devasting damage of Hurricane Ida and others flooded by torrential rainfall from Nicholas, late-summer grilling plans are far removed from the priority list for many households. 

Meanwhile, the first day of fall is just under one week away. For retailers, the transition to autumn will mean increased consumer preference for fall favorites like roasts. Weather-permitting, tail gaiting at sports events as fans celebrate NFL season could prolong demand for grilling cuts while supporting popular game-time foods like wings.

Speaking of wing fanatics, the National Chicken Council recognizes September as National Chicken Month. Some grocers are advertising additional chicken cuts to encourage consumer spending on poultry. However, the number of chicken advertisements this week in Urner Barry’s survey was down from a week ago and was also below the last half of August...

The Executive Conference is Back and Better Than Ever This Year—and There's Still Time to Register!

We're bringing you in-person networking, impactful content, and a hard-hitting lineup of speakers, including the one and only Bo Jackson!

Urner Barry’s Executive Conference is just a few weeks away and there’s still time to register and make your way to Las Vegas for this exclusive event!

This year’s show is at The Venetian in Las Vegas, September 26-28^th. Yes, we are LIVE and in-person this year and we know you are anxious to get back down to business and meet with fellow colleagues to network and learn at the industry’s most prestigious event!

The past 18 months have brought countless challenges and disrupted market dynamics more than ever before. Our industry has...

Grand Island Fire Department Battles Blaze at JBS Beef Plant in Nebraska

On Sunday evening, a fire broke out at the rendering section of JBS’s beef plant in Grand Island, Nebraska. According to a recent tweet from the Grand Island Fire Department, fresh crews have been called to the scene to battle the blaze.

On a Facebook post, JBS stated, “As of this time fabrication and slaughter A and B shift will not be working September 13, 2021. We will...

Tyson Foods Categorically Rejects Conclusions Drawn by White House

Tyson Foods categorically rejects the conclusions drawn by the Secretary of Agriculture and the Director of the National Economic Council in a White House press briefing.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture recently published a report detailing the drivers of consumer inflation in the food sector, none of which are related to industry consolidation or scale. The report can be found here.

Increase in Beef Prices due to Unprecedented Market Conditions

As we have explained in great detail to the U.S. Senate Committee on the Judiciary, in testimony provided in August 2021, which can...

Record Value for July Beef Exports; Pork Value also Strong

U.S. beef exports set another new value record in July, according to data released by USDA and compiled by the U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF). July export value climbed 45% from a year ago to $939.1 million, while volume was the third largest of the post-BSE era at 122,743 metric tons (mt), up 14% year-over-year.

For January through July, beef exports increased 18% from a year ago to 822,830 mt, with value up 30% to $5.58 billion. Compared to the pace established in 2018, the record year for...

Traders Assess Suspension of Brazilian Beef Exports to China Due to BSE

Over the weekend, the agriculture ministry reported that Brazil has suspended beef exports to China after confirming two cases of “atypical” bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE) in two domestic meat plants. BSE, also referred to as mad cow disease, is a fatal neurodegenerative disease of cattle that is transmitted through contaminated feed. The two cases recently confirmed in Brazil were “atypical” since the disease appeared “spontaneously and sporadically, unrelated to the ingestion of contaminated food”, according to the agriculture ministry. 

It is not yet certain when Brazilian beef exports to China will resume. The ministry stated there was no risk to animal or human health.

BSE was first diagnosed in 1986 in the United Kingdom and has since been detected in other countries. The first known case of BSE in the United States occurred in 2003 and resulted in the loss of most of the United States’ beef exports in 2004. 

Brazil was the world's largest beef exporter in 2020. The indefinite suspension of Brazilian beef exports to China could be supportive of U.S. beef exports if the ban is not resolved quickly...

This Week in Retail: How the Ads Stack Up for Labor Day

Labor Day weekend is a stone’s throw away and retailers are spotlighting popular grilling items as we approach the final weeks of summer. 

Beef reigns number one in circular ad space this week with 28.6 percent of total feature volume, followed by seafood with 25.5 percent. Pork surpasses chicken for third with 24.3 percent. Chicken claimed 17.1 percent.

In the beef complex, 80% lean ground beef is on feature for an average of $3.19 per pound, down from $3.25 per pound last year. 80% lean ground beef is the only item in the beef complex displaying lower YOY feature prices this week. Top round London Broil, a favorable choice for grillling, is featured at $4.16 per pound, 27.2% above a year ago. The steak complex currently averages $8.70 per pound, nearly one dollar more per pound versus last year. T-bone and top sirloin are heavily advertised this week and their feature prices average about 23% and 8%, respectively, above 2020...

NCBA Secures Extension of Critical Exemption for Livestock Haulers

Today, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) announced an extension of the exemption from hours-of-service (HOS) requirements for livestock haulers. Livestock haulers continue to need this flexibility for the well-being of livestock during hauls, and to keep grocery stores stocked with beef during the continued disruption of COVID-19. This extension comes after consistent advocacy by the National Cattlemen's Beef Association (NCBA).

Thanks in part to NCBA's continued push on this issue, livestock haulers have been operating under an HOS exemption since the beginning of the...

This Week in Retail: The Value of Labor

Labor Day – a holiday to honor the American labor movement – is a little over one week away. The invaluable contributions made by our nation’s workers warrants special recognition this year as nearly all sectors face widespread labor shortages during these unprecedented times.

These days ‘Help Wanted’ signs are commonplace and many restaurants have pared down their menu offerings in response to tight supplies. The retail landscape across nearly all proteins has been shaped by labor and processing constraints as some grocers struggle to secure enough product. Retail prices for several red meat, poultry, and seafood items this week continue to trend above 2020 levels.

Labor Day ads will be in full view next week and retailers will promote popular grilling items like pork chops, ribs, and steak. Grocers are also prepping for an influx of...

Beef Quarterly Q3 2021: Déjà Vu Argentina

In May this year, the Argentine government imposed a 30-day suspension on beef exports. After those 30 days, new limitations were placed on the volume and type of beef that could be exported. In our feature article, we look at what impact this will have on the Argentine beef industry and the global market.

Covid-19

Global confirmed case numbers began rising again in mid-June, after falling from a peak in late April. Numbers in Europe, the Eastern Mediterranean region, Africa, and the Western Pacific region have seen large rises. Food retail figures remain strong, and foodservice sales were still...

This Week in Retail: Prepping for Labor Day; Pork and Beef Indices Forge Record Highs  

Labor Day weekend – a symbolic end of summer – is sadly within reach for families scrambling to fit in one last vacation before school resumes. For some college students, the fall semester has already begun. Among retailers, the Labor Day holiday is widely viewed as the last major grilling weekend of the year.

Grocery stores could see an uptick in foot traffic as parents restock on school staples like breakfast and lunch foods. Typically, aside from back-to-school demand and Labor Day grilling opportunities, the meat case takes a back seat in mid to late August. This year, however, beef and pork appear well-positioned to remain in the spotlight despite a traditional period of seasonal... 

Real Good Foods Expands Frozen Entrée Offerings at Kroger Stores Nationwide

The Real Good Foods Company, a high growth brand in frozen food, announced today the launch of seven new frozen, high protein, low carb, grain free, gluten free entrées in approximately 1,500 Kroger stores nationwide. These tasty offerings are made with real ingredients that allow consumers to stay on track with their health and wellness goals while also bringing convenience to every lifestyle.

"We are delighted with this expansion of approximately 10,000 points of distribution in Kroger stores and Kroger owned banners," said Bryan Freeman, Executive Chairman of...

This Week in Retail: Tight Supplies, Stellar Protein Demand; A Case of Déjà Vu?

August is flying by and retail ads are beginning to shift from grilling staples to tailgating must-haves as retailers highlight NFL preseason. Consumer demand for beef, pork, and chicken has remained stellar leading up to the fall, and tight supplies across most protein items may continue to keep retail prices elevated.

This week in retail we look at the situation surrounding the poultry and red meat complex, which continues to be influenced by the pandemic and ongoing logistical challenges. 

This time last year, retail prices were higher for many protein items amid efforts to reopen food service and dining capacity across the nation. The situation in August 2021 appears to be a case of déjà vu as retail prices, for beef and pork, in particular, trend higher than year-ago levels. The Delta variant is fueling volatility in the marketplace and re-emerging patterns of panic-buying are becoming increasingly likely. 

A year ago, seafood and beef features...

PODCAST: UK Beef Chats Episode 28

This week on UK Beef Chats Episode 28, Mike Nesbitt discusses the softening of red meat demand at retail, items that are peaking interest for catering demand, panic buying and much more!

ANALYSIS: Lackluster Cattle Slaughter, Tight Supplies Lift Boxed Beef Prices

For those monitoring cattle slaughter levels, there is a common takeaway that processing capacity has not yet recovered to pre-pandemic levels. Production and distribution challenges due to ongoing labor shortages may...

Tattooed Chef Launches New Innovation Items at Sprouts Farmers Market

Tattooed Chef, Inc., a leader in plant based foods, announced it has launched four entrée bowls including two new flavors at Sprouts Farmers Market in approximately 340 stores.

The four entrée bowl flavors are now available to Sprouts Farmers Market shoppers, including the new Buffalo Cauliflower Mac & Cheese Bowl and Spicy Thai Bowl...

U.S. Beef and Pork Exports on Record Pace through June

U.S. red meat exports closed the first half of the year on a strong note, according to data released by USDA and compiled by the U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF). Although volume and value eased from the enormous totals posted in April and May, export value was still the highest on record for the month of June and first-half shipments established a record pace for both beef and pork exports.

“USMEF had expected a continued strong performance in June for both beef and pork exports, despite significant headwinds,” said...

Tyson Foods Reports Third Quarter 2021 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, reported the following results:

First Nine Months Highlights

- GAAP EPS of $4.63, up 20% from prior year; Adjusted EPS of $5.98, up 61% from prior year
- GAAP operating income of $2,487 million, up...

USDA Adopts Market Transparency Policies Backed by NCBA

The U.S. Department of Agriculture-Agricultural Marketing Service (USDA-AMS) announced that it will begin publishing a National Daily Direct Formula Base Cattle report, which will provide greater information into the foundational prices used in cattle market formulas, grids, and contracts, and a National Weekly Cattle Net Price Distribution report, which will show the volume of cattle purchased at each different level of pricing within those formulas, grids, and contracts. NCBA has long urged USDA to adopt policies that increase transparency in the cattle markets and applauds this effort to provide producers greater insight into cattle transactions.

“USDA’s announcement is a significant step toward increasing transparency in the cattle markets,” said NCBA Vice President of Government Affairs Ethan Lane. “As Livestock Mandatory Reporting awaits...

Study Shows How Corn and Soybean Producers Benefit from U.S. Red Meat Exports

U.S. beef and pork exports brought critical returns to the corn and soybean industries in 2020, according to an independent study conducted by World Perspectives, Inc. and released by the U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF). According to the study, U.S. beef and pork exports added 41 cents per bushel to the value of corn and $1.06 per bushel to soybeans in 2020.

“As the study indicates, my farm gains from red meat exports in the price of every acre of crops that we grow,” says...

PODCAST: UK Beef Chats Episode 27

This week on UK Beef Chats we cover highs across the UK Beef Complex, tight supplies, labor issues and driver shortages. 

This Week in Retail: The Outlook for August

The dog days of summer will soon be behind us and below normal temperatures are already starting to materialize in the areas spanning the central Plains to the East Coast. This week is retail, we delve into the supply and demand landscape that will impact retail meat prices in August.

As more moderate temperatures begin to arrive, grocers will begin to shift their attention to back-to-school needs by featuring items used in lunches and snacks. These items typically include easy-to-prepare frozen meals like pizza along with deli meats.

Retailers will also begin to promote breakfast foods like eggs. In addition, retailers will be focusing on dinnertime staples since families tend to sit down together for...

Yoshinoya Japanese Kitchen Announces the Return of Grilled Steak

Grilled Steak is coming back to Yoshinoya Japanese Kitchen. Back by overwhelming customer demand, this premium steak entrée starts with strips of seared steak that are topped with a soy glaze and paired with veggies and a choice of steamed rice or not-so-fried rice. A summertime special, the Grilled Steak promotion will only be available for a limited time.

Yoshinoya will also celebrate this summer launch with double Yoshinoya Rewards points from 8/4 through 8/15 when guests order Grilled Steak through the Yoshinoya app...

Red Robin Announces Limited Time Offerings for Summer 

Red Robin Gourmet Burgers and Brews is spicing things up this summer by inviting guests to gather around the table with its new Summer Heat Wave menu items. Available for a limited time only, this delectable lineup is a perfect blend of heat and flavor.

Guests cherish their moments of connection at Red Robin, especially in the hot months of summer. They can opt for a sizzling Scorpion Gourmet Burger with bottomless fries; share Red Robin's Scorpion Wings with flavor-seeking friends and family; complement their meal with...

Greater Omaha Packing Recalls Raw Beef Products Due to Possible E. Coli 0157:H7 Contamination

Greater Omaha Packing, an Omaha, Neb. establishment, is recalling approximately 295,236 pounds of raw beef products intended for non-intact use 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 intended for non-intact use were produced on July 13, 2021.

The products subject to recall bear establishment number “EST. 960A” inside the USDA mark of inspection. These items were distributed to further processors in Illinois...

Tyson Fresh Meats Leader Testifies About Beef Industry at Senate Hearing

Shane Miller, group president of Tyson Fresh Meats, the beef and pork unit of Tyson Foods, testified about the beef industry during a hearing held today by the U.S. Senate Committee on the Judiciary. Below is Miller’s written testimony:

Chairman Durbin, Ranking Member Grassley, members of the Judiciary Committee, thank you for inviting me here today.

I proudly represent Tyson Foods, a company based in Springdale, Arkansas, and founded nearly a century ago by John W. Tyson, who started this business trucking chickens to markets across the Midwest...

Quick 'N Eat Angus Beef Patties and New Burger Product Lines Now Sold in U.S. Walmart Locations

Quick 'N Eat is introducing authentically flame-grilled beef patties to frozen, fully cooked meat aisles at Walmart locations across the country.

The rapidly growing producer of affordable, high-quality beef products has also extended its products within the fully cooked burger category, including an all-new turkey burger. Now available at...

PLANT PROTEIN: Get to Know Players in the Plant Protein Market: Plantible 

Duckweed is an incredibly sustainable and well rounded source of plant-based protein, and we haven’t seen enough of it in U.S. markets. Plantible, founded by Tony Martens and Maurits van de Ven in 2016, is changing that.

A member of the aquatic plant genus Lemna, duckweed contains all 9 amino acids, can grow to double its size in 48-72 hours, and can be cultivated on typically non-arable land. When processed correctly, duckweed results in a tasteless, colorless protein isolate with a wide range of applications, from...

PODCAST: UK Beef Chats Episode 26

This week on UK Beef Chats, market expert Mike Nesbitt discusses labor shortages, pandemic pressure on the supply chain, and elevated prices.

PODCAST: UK Beef Chats Episode 25

This week on UK Beef Chats, market expert Mike Nesbitt discusses how different parts of the supply chain are mitigating elevated prices and supply issues. Also covered are notable trends in the imports market.

Sweet Earth Foods Debuts New Plant-Based Breakfast Bowls and Reformulated Deli Slices Nationwide

Plant-based foods innovator Sweet Earth Foods is announcing the nationwide launch of their new heat-and-eat Breakfast Bowls and reformulated, ready-to-eat Deli Slices. As consumers return to on-the-go busy lifestyles, these prepared meal and plant-based protein offerings provide quick plant-based solutions.

The three new Sweet Earth Breakfast Bowls meet this demand and are inspired by classic regional scrambles, all while offering between 17 - 20 grams of plant protein and three to five grams of fiber in every bowl. New flavors found in the frozen meals section include...

Dr. Praeger’s Launches Four New Products Nationwide at Whole Foods Market

Dr. Praeger’s Sensible Foods announced the introduction of four new products to Whole Foods Market shelves nationwide.

Beginning in August, Whole Foods shoppers can find Dr. Praeger’s Cauliflower Veggie Burger, Perfect Burger, Original Chick’n Littles and Spinach Littles Value Pack on shelves at their local Whole Foods. These new products join an existing array of Dr. Praeger’s products that Whole Foods customers have been purchasing for years, including the California Veggie Burger, the brand’s #1 selling SKU at Whole Foods and the brand’s Perfect Sliders, introduced last year...

Taco Bell Unveils Latest Menu Round-up

After putting the finishing touches on its new streamlined menu to make room for new innovations, Taco Bell has unveiled its latest menu offerings that will be available nationwide or for testing in select markets.

Since Nacho Fries first launched in 2018, Taco Bell has reimagined the beloved menu item multiple times with innovations. This time, Nacho Fries will be joined by the new Loaded Taco Fries.

The latest fry innovation features...

Top Notch Jerky Recalls Beef Jerky Products Due to Misbranding and Undeclared Allergens

Top Notch Jerky LLC., a Sugar City, Idaho establishment, is recalling approximately 107 pounds of ready-to-eat (RTE) beef jerky due to misbranding and undeclared allergens, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today. The product contains anchovies, a known allergen, which is not declared on the product label.

The RTE buffalo-style flank steak beef jerky items were produced July 12, 2021. The following products are subject to recall...

OZO Expands Line of Plant-Based Proteins in Frozen and Fresh Aisle

Colorado-based Planterra Foods is expanding its portfolio of plant-based products in the fresh and frozen category by launching a variety of new items for families to have more options of convenient plant-based meals at home. Available now, consumers can add the OZO™ Frozen Nuggets (10.6 oz), plant-based Chicken Patties (4, 2.5 oz patties), and Italian Style Meatballs (12-1 oz meatballs) as well as fresh Smokehouse Burgers (2-4 oz patties) and plant-based Ground Turkey (12 oz) to their plant-based rotation of OZO™ meals.

These new OZO™ products offer a spin on plant-based proteins in the categories of chicken, turkey and beef, with bold flavors for delicious meat-free possibilities stored...

NCBA Notes Introduction of Misguided Agriculture Bill from Senator Booker

The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) noted the introduction of misguided legislation entitled the Farm System Reform Act by Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) and Congressman Ro Khanna (D-CA). NCBA Vice President of Government Affairs Ethan Lane gave the following response.

“In the past week, Democrats in Washington have put forward two starkly different proposals for strengthening the future of American cattle farmers and ranchers. One of these paths, namely the recent announcement from Secretary Vilsack, offers...

Ruby Tuesday Introduces Libby’s BBQ for Summer

Ruby Tuesday has announced the addition of Libby’s BBQ with a new feature menu this summer. Originally crafted in the Ruby Tuesday kitchen as a delivery-only concept, Libby’s BBQ offers smoky, tender, saucy BBQ entrees and is now available to order at all Ruby Tuesday locations for dine-in, Ruby TueGO and delivery for a limited time only.

Now through September, Ruby Tuesday guests can try Libby’s BBQ entrees starting at $9.99. The all-new Libby’s BBQ menu includes tender, smoked beef brisket and...

Baja Fresh Adds Impossible Foods to Menus Nationwide

Baja Fresh Mexican Grill, the fast-casual Mexican food chain, is launching three new menu options featuring Impossible™ meat made from plants. The lineup of Impossible™ dishes will be available at participating stores nationwide.

The three Impossible™ varieties include:

• Impossible™ Taco Combo – three tacos with...

PODCAST: UK Beef Chats Episode 24

This week on UK Beef Chats, Market Report Mike Nesbitt discusses the rise of dead weight prices, shortage of cattle influencing the UK beef market, and plans to remove social distancing restrictions in the UK.

REPORTER: As Plant-Based Demand Skyrockets, Innovators Think Beyond the Burger

This article was originally featured in the Summer 2021 Edition of Urner Barry's Reporter magazine.

There is no doubt that burgers and sandwiches are the most popular items ordered by consumers when dining out. In fact, according to the NPD Group, burgers were included in 13.5% of all restaurant orders in the year ending 2020, which translates into 7 billion servings of burgers. Chicken sandwiches were included in 6.7% of all restaurant orders in the U.S., which amounts to 3.5 billion servings. With that in mind, it comes as...

NCBA Thanks President Biden, Secretary Vilsack for Taking Steps to Strengthen Beef Supply Chain

President Biden signed an Executive Order which initiates several federal rulemakings and commits $500 million to expanding processing capacity in the beef industry. The National Cattlemen's Beef Association (NCBA) thanked President Biden and U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Secretary Vilsack for acting rapidly to address key concerns impacting cattle and beef producers.

NCBA welcomed the announcement of rulemakings to improve the accuracy of the "Product of the USA" beef label and implement...

Mycelium-based Meats Developer Meati Foods Secures New Funding 

Meati Foods, a Public Benefit Corporation leading the fast-paced emergence of a new category of clean, whole-cut alternative meats announced the closing of its $50 million Series B – a major source of momentum that will further expedite Meati's efforts to scale production capacity and launch their products at a national scale next year.

The significantly oversubscribed round was co-led by new investor BOND and long-time Meati investor Acre Venture Partners. They were joined by other existing investors, including...

Broad-Based Growth Drives U.S. Beef and Pork Exports to New Heights

Fueled by impressive growth in a wide range of destinations, U.S. beef and pork export value shattered previous records in May, according to data released by USDA and compiled by the U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF). Beef exports also reached a new volume high in May, while pork export volume was the third largest on record.

“The outstanding May performance is especially gratifying when you consider where red meat exports stood a year ago,” noted USMEF President and CEO Dan Halstrom. “The industry faced unprecedented, COVID-related obstacles at all levels of the supply chain, and...

Awareness and Retention Rate for Plant-Based Protein on the Rise in China

According to China Plant-based Protein Topical Report from The NPD Group, plant-based proteins are gaining acceptance in China as Chinese consumers seek more protein in their diets, and plant-based foods become more available and appealing. Although plant-based protein currently has a small serving share compared to meat proteins in China, awareness has reached 90%; and the retention rate for plant-based proteins is on the rise, increasing from 53% in October 2020, to 68% in January 2021.

“There is no doubt that consumers in China view plant-based proteins as healthier alternatives to traditional meat protein,” said Gimantha Jayasinghe, Senior Vice President of APAC Foodservice at The NPD Group. “Though these products have a long way to go in terms of...

ANALYSIS: Flap Meat Correcting Just as Swiftly as the Rise

During the record run in beef prices throughout 2021, gains were led by grilling items as peak demand for...

Subway Debuts Largest Menu Update in Brand's History

Subway restaurants announced the biggest changes in the brand's history, making improvements to almost every core menu item and introducing important digital upgrades that elevate the guest experience. The Eat Fresh Refresh™ arrives in U.S. restaurants nationwide on July 13, and is marked with unprecedented moments, including participating Subway restaurants across the country closing for a Refresh Break and a one million sub sandwich giveaway to encourage people to come see and taste the changes.

Starting on July 13, the Eat Fresh Refresh comes to life in all U.S. Subway restaurants. The more than 20 menu updates include...

PODCAST: UK Beef Chats Episode 23

This week on UK Beef Chats, market expert Mike Nesbitt updates us on supply chain pressure on the UK market and availability for product, retail and summer barbeque demand, sporting events supporting meat sales and more.

Grubhub Releases Third Annual State of the Plate Report

As we approach a new normal and restaurants reopen, there's a lot to look forward to for the rest of the year. Before looking ahead, let's rewind to see how diners ate their way through the last six months. Grubhub, part of leading global online food delivery marketplace Just Eat Takeaway.com, launched the third annual "State of the Plate" report. Looking at trends from hundreds of thousands average daily orders, Grubhub's mid-year report checks in on what has shaped 2021 thus far, including the top trending foods, popular restaurants across the country, and what we can expect to see more of in the second half of the year.

Unlike 2020, diners opted for the plant-based versions of delivery classics so far in 2021. And while last year's top food, the wildly popular...

Market Trends to Watch Ahead of Independence Day

Urner Barry is the leading provider of protein market news and information in the food industry. Through daily canvasses of the trade and an unrivaled historical database, our analysts are uniquely positioned to report on the underlying conditions and significant disruptors to the market. In this Market Briefing, Urner Barry reporters outline the latest action in the commodity protein markets, highlighting seasonal factors, disruptors, and current supply and demand fundamentals.

Access the latest UB Market Briefing HERE.  

United States and Taiwan Hold Dialogue on Trade and Investment Priorities

The United States and Taiwan held the eleventh Trade and Investment Framework Agreement (TIFA) Council meeting yesterday under the auspices of the American Institute in Taiwan (AIT) and the Taipei Economic and Cultural Representative Office in the United States (TECRO). Assistant United States Trade Representative Terry McCartin and Jen-ni Yang, Deputy Trade Representative from Taiwan’s Office of Trade Negotiations, co-led the discussions, which were held virtually and focused on enhancing the longstanding trade and investment relationship between the United States and Taiwan. Other U.S. participants and contributors included AIT and the U.S. Departments of Agriculture, Commerce, Health and Human Services, Labor, State and Treasury.

The TIFA establishes TIFA Council meetings as the key mechanism for trade and investment dialogue between the U.S. and Taiwan authorities, and covers a broad range of issues...

Conagra Brands Launches Extensive Summer Line-up of New Product Innovation

Conagra Brands is kicking off summer with additions to the company's portfolio. From meals and sides to new plant-based offerings, Conagra's latest foods deliver great taste, convenience, and value.

A Fresh Look at Frozen

Conagra offers a collection of brands within single-serve frozen meals, with new dishes coming from Healthy Choice®, Banquet®, Marie Callender's ® and...

Fourth of July Cookout Cost Stable Compared to Year Ago

U.S. consumers will pay just a few cents more for their favorite Independence Day cookout foods compared to last year, including cheeseburgers, pork chops, chicken breasts, homemade potato salad, pork & beans, strawberries, potato chips, fresh-squeezed lemonade and vanilla ice cream with chocolate chip cookies for dessert.

Farm Bureau analysis reveals the average cost of a summer cookout for 10 people remains affordable at $59.50, or less than $6 per person. The cost is up just 16 cents (less than 1%) from last year, but...

DoorDash and Beyond Meat Introduce Limited Edition Summer Grilling Kits for On-Demand Delivery

DoorDash announced a partnership with Beyond Meat, a leader in plant-based meat, to offer limited-edition, July 4th grilling kits to help customers host the ultimate BBQ featuring the new Beyond Burger®. The kits are available exclusively on DoorDash for on-demand delivery from DashMart, a new type of convenience store owned, operated, and curated by DoorDash.

As many people prepare for a summer of grilling and gathering, the kit also provides a seamless way for consumers to get their grilling essentials without taking a last-minute trip to the grocery store. According to a national consumer survey that polled 1,000 U.S. adults...

PODCAST: UK Beef Chats Episode 22

This week on UK Beef Chats market expert Mike Nesbitt discusses new highs across the UK beef complex, continued labor shortages, acute availability issues, how the Euros are impacting burger and steak items, summer BBQs, and more.

US Foods Solves Operators’ Steak Challenges with Tender by Design Process

US Foods Holding Corp. announced the national launch of Tender by Design™, a revolutionary process by which frozen beef can now be just as high quality and tender as fresh. The proprietary Tender by Design™ process gives operators access to high-quality steaks year-round at a competitive price and allows for easier inventory and portion control to respond to the ebb and flow of restaurant traffic. Tender by Design™ is being introduced under the company’s well-known Stock Yards® brand. The launch includes 6-, 8- and 10-ounce half-faced center cut choice top sirloin steaks and an 8-ounce baseball cut choice top sirloin steak.

“Unpredictability is a major challenge in the beef industry, and this is especially true in today’s market. Variance in the quality of beef driven by the time of year and pricing fluctuations hurt the bottom line and create unwanted pressures as operators aim to deliver consistent, high-quality steak offerings that attract...

Rancher and NCBA Member Testifies Before Senate Agriculture Committee on Cattle Market Concerns

Mr. Mark Gardiner, the owner-operator of Gardiner Angus Ranch and an NCBA member, testified before the U.S. Senate Agriculture Committee on key market challenges that have long threatened the profitability of cattle and beef producers. He was joined by leading industry economists who NCBA has worked closely with to explore solutions to the current unsustainable market dynamics.

The hearing titled, “Examining Markets, Transparency, and Prices from Cattle Producer to Consumer” addressed a wide range of issues, including the urgent need for robust price discovery and...

Future Meat Technologies Launches Industrial Cultured Meat Production Facility
Future Meat Technologies, an industry-leading company developing innovative technology to produce cultured meat, has opened the world's first industrial cultured meat facility. With the capability to produce 500 kilograms of cultured products a day, equivalent to 5,000 hamburgers, this facility makes scalable cell-based meat production a reality.

"This facility opening marks a huge step in Future Meat Technologies' path to market, serving as a critical enabler to bring our products to shelves by 2022," says Rom Kshuk, CEO of Future Meat Technologies. "Having a running industrial line accelerates...

Meat and Poultry Supply Chain Remains Resilient

In response to U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack’s request for comments on efforts to improve supply chains for the production of agricultural commodities and food products, The North American Meat Institute (Meat Institute) said the meat and poultry food supply chain remains resilient despite extraordinary circumstances.

“The pandemic that began in 2020 and continues today may be the ultimate black swan event,” said Meat Institute Senior Vice President for Regulatory and Scientific Affairs Mark Dopp. “But its occurrence does not...