ANALYSIS: Korea's Beef Imports Rise 4.8% Y-o-Y in September, Australia Surpasses US as Top Supplier

Korea’s beef imports rose to 38,580 metric tonnes (mt) in September 2024, reversing last month’s losses, according to the latest figures from the Korea Customs Service.

Volumes rose by 1.2% (+452 mt) from the previous month, bolstered by increased imports from Australia, New Zealand, and Canada. However, declines in quantities from the United States, driven by a reduction in herd size, limited overall growth.

Annually, total imports increased by 4.8% (+1,768 mt), representing the strongest growth since the beginning... 

The Retail Rundown: Tuning in to Turkey

Retail promotions for seafood continue to dominate the protein category this week, capturing nearly a third of ad circular space (32 percent). Beef and pork follow, taking up 23 percent and 21.3 percent, respectively. Chicken is up slightly from the previous week at 16 percent. Egg ads held steady at about 3 percent.

Several items were featured at lower prices compared to 2023 last week, with chicken leg quarters averaging $1.55 per pound, 5 cents cheaper than last year. Fresh pork loin prices were down by 2 percent...

E. coli Linked to McDonald's Quarter Pounders Kills 1 in Multi-State Outbreak

An investigation is underway following an outbreak of E. coli linked to McDonald's Quarter Pounder hamburgers that killed one individual in Colorado and sickened dozens of others across multiple states. 

The U.S. Food & Drug Administration identified the strain as O157:H7, a dangerous bacteria that can cause severe illness or death. The primary sources of outbreaks are raw or undercooked ground meat, raw milk and cheeses, and contaminated vegetables...

HPAI H5N1 Virus in Dairy Cattle – What We Know

In March 2024, Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) A (H5N1), commonly referred to as bird flu, was confirmed in domestic U.S. livestock for the first time in a dairy operation in Texas. Since then, the virus has spread to 334 dairy operations across 14 states, raising widespread uncertainty throughout the dairy and livestock markets. Industry participants have raised concerns about the outbreak's potential impact on consumer perception and demand for dairy and meat products, though government agencies reiterate that the national food supply remains safe. Expana is closely monitoring the...

ANALYSIS: China’s Beef Imports Sink 5.7% M-o-M in September; Tonnage Lowest Since 2020

China’s September 2024 beef imports slumped 5.7% month-on-month (m-o-m) to 218,199 metric tonnes (mt), according to the General Administration of Customs People's Republic of China.

Although August 2024 saw a mild recovery, volumes in September 2024 dropped by 13,136 mt, with declines recorded across all major suppliers except Australia and Bolivia. September 2024’s in-month tonnage was also the lowest since 2020, underscoring the ongoing challenges faced by the world’s largest beef importer.

Annual figures painted...

Strike to Halt Operations at Brazilian Ports on October 22

Brazilian port workers will stage a 12-hour strike on 22 October, with around 60,000 registered and freelance workers from three national federations set to halt activities. The strike will run from 7 AM to 7 PM on October 22 and is expected to heavily impact the Port of Santos.

The action, announced on 17 October, serves as a warning to the federal government as workers protest a proposed bill that would remove some labor rights for freelance and port workers. The bill, scheduled...

The Retail Rundown: Eggs Rule the Roost During Baking Season 

As October reaches its midpoint, many homes are filled with the irresistible aromas of freshly baked goods, marking the onset of the holiday baking season.

This seasonal shift benefits the egg case as eggs find their way into breads, cookies, pastries, pies, and more. Also, more consumers are reaching for hot breakfasts as the weather turns colder, which further boosts egg demand.

Data from Circana shows that the average retail feature price for large, white Grade A eggs averaged $3.72 per dozen last week...

ANALYSIS: China’s Sept 2024 Meat Imports Slump 4.3% M-o-M; Ends Two-Month Growth Streak

China’s total meat imports, including variety meats fell in September 2024, amounting to 540,543 metric tonnes (mt), according to the latest preliminary figures from the General Administration of Customs of the People's Republic of China. 

On a monthly basis, imports slipped 4.3% (-24,559 mt), partially affected by the shorter working month due to the observance of the Mid-Autumn festivities. 

Annually, imports plummeted by 9.2% (-54,457 mt) in September, marking the eighth consecutive month since the start of the year...

ANALYSIS: The U.S 2024 Ups and Downs of Inside Rounds

As cooler temperatures bring in roasting season, let's take a look at a favorite, inside rounds. This item has seen a year of heightened volatility, which started back in Q1. They have broken all-time record highs for March at $3.76/lb; this is 35% above year-ago levels and roughly 40% over the 5-year average for this time.  If we look back to the middle of June, inside rounds saw a sharp price increase. This item rose 15% in about a month...

ANALYSIS: U.S. Dressed Steer Weights Continue in Record High Fashion

As of September 16^th, dressed steer weights continue to push all-time high levels for the past two consecutive weeks currently at 948 lbs. Year-over year there has been a percent change of 3.27%. Since July, dressed steer weights have increased by 3.6%. The previous record was set less than a year ago, at the end of 2023, when dressed steers averaged 942 lbs. in December. Over the past three years, weights have consistently exceeded the ten-year average across all months. The current period... 

ANALYSIS: Brazilian Beef Exports Hit a New Record High in September, 8.4% MoM and 17.4% YoY.

The Brazilian fresh beef (frozen and chilled) exports totaled 251,749 MT in September, according to the latest data released by the Brazilian Foreign Trade Secretariat. This sets a new record, surpassing the previous high from just two months ago, when Brazil shipped 237,268 MT of fresh beef overseas. September volume accounts for a monthly 8.4% increase and is 17.4% higher compared to the same period last year. On a year-to-date basis, Brazil has exported 1,845,638 MT of fresh beef...

ANALYSIS: U.S. Dressed Steer Weights Continue in Record High Fashion

As of September 16^th, dressed steer weights continue to push all-time high levels for the past two consecutive weeks currently at 948 lbs. Year-over year there has been a percent change of 3.27%. Since July, dressed steer weights have increased by 3.6%. The previous record was set less than a year ago, at the end of 2023, when dressed steers averaged 942 lbs. in December. Over the past three years, weights have consistently exceeded the ten-year average across all months... 

ANALYSIS: China Activates Australian Beef’s Safeguard Mechanism in Surprise Move

China has announced that Australian beef will now be subjected to a 12.0% Most-Favoured Nation (MFN) tariff, as the Special Agricultural Safeguard (SSG) of 178,418 metric tonnes (mt) has been triggered, according to a statement from the General Administration of Customs of the People's Republic of China.

In a surprising move, the official announcement came on Sunday, October 6th, during China's seven-day "Golden Week" holiday, which began on October 1st. This period, marking the 75th anniversary of the People's Republic, is one of the country's longest public holidays...

ANALYSIS: Australia's Sept 2024 Beef Exports Slide 6.4% MoM; China-bound Shipments Climb

Australia beef and veal exports in September 2024 eased further to 114,046 metric tonnes (mt), the latest data from the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Forestry (DAFF) indicated.

Hitting the 2nd highest in-month figure since our records began in 2010, September’s exports surpassed the drought year’s highs back in 2019, but narrowly missing 2015’s record highs of 118,432 mt by 4,386 mt.

Month-on-month (m-o-m), volumes slipped another 6.4% (-7,751 mt) following July 2024’s all-time highs that was recorded at...

ANALYSIS: Unusual Trend Ignites Price Surge in Chuck Rolls

In January, Chuck Rolls entered the year at $3.85/lb, gaining in price to $4.57/lb by the end of the month, or roughly a 19% change. The price jump can be attributed to winter weather events that caused plant closures and disrupted the supply chain. A bottom of $3.50/lb was seen in the beginning of May as production normalized back in April, putting Chuck Rolls back on track with historical trends. In late August, prices started to increase, whereas in the past, prices...

ANALYSIS: Uruguay Beef Exports Shed 16.9% in September, Still Up by 4.0% YTD

According to the latest data released by the Uruguayan National Customs Directorate, Uruguay’s fresh beef export has reached 25,625 MT in September 2024, marking a 16.9% decline compared to the previous month, and 13.7% drop YoY. On a YTD basis, beef exports totaled 263,910 MT, which is 4% higher than last year’s 253,847 MT.

China continued to be the primary destination for beef exports in September, accounting for 10,076 MT, or 39.3% of the total. This figure represents a reduction of nearly 20% compared...

Jack in the Box Inc. Announces Departure of Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer

Jack in the Box Inc. announces the resignation of EVP and Chief Financial Officer Brian Scott, who has accepted a new position outside of the restaurant industry. To assist with a smooth transition, his last day with Jack in the Box will be November 20th.

Dawn Hooper, a Jack in the Box veteran of 24 years who has previously served as interim chief financial officer, will assume the role of principal financial officer on November 1st and interim CFO upon Scott’s departure...

Wendy's Celebrates 25 Years of Nickelodeon's "SpongeBob SquarePants" with "Krabby Patty Kollab" 

Fans have eagerly speculated and imagined how this iconic patty might taste, and Wendy's is bringing its Krabby Patty Kollab Burger to land for a limited time, best paired with a first-of-its-kind Pineapple Under the Sea Frosty. The Krabby Patty Kollab Burger is Wendy's take on the most coveted recipe in all of Bikini Bottom, available starting October 8 in restaurants nationwide and on the Wendy's app.

The Wendy's Krabby Patty Kollab includes:

• Pineapple Under the Sea Frosty: Wendy's...

Bob Evans Launches All-New Breakfast Value Menu Starting at $5.99

Bob Evans Farmhouse Kitchen™ is excited to announce the launch of their all-new breakfast value menu, "Sunrise Savers," debuting today, October 3. The new breakfast menu gives guests high-quality, farm fresh dishes at affordable prices – putting more food on your table for less. The Sunrise Savers menu features an array of wholesome, delicious dishes, ranging from farmhouse classics to brand new dishes designed with flavor and value in mind.

"At Bob Evans Farmhouse Kitchen, our goal is to excite our...

ANALYSIS: U.S. Beef Cold Storage Hits a 52-Week Low

According to the latest USDA beef cold storage report, the total volume of beef in cold storage has experienced a significant decline in August, with an almost 2% drop month-over-month. This decline has brought the current storage volume to its lowest level in three years. Notably, boneless beef has seen a decrease of 1.13%, while beef cuts have experienced a more pronounced reduction of 7.48%. This considerable decline in beef cuts suggests that the overall change in total beef inventory is closely aligned with the trends...

How a Port Strike Could Ripple Through the Ag Sector

The port strike has entered its third day and the United States Maritime Alliance (USMX) has signaled that they are willing to resume negotiations with the International Longshoremen's Association (ILA), but without preconditions made by the union. 

In an update provided Wednesday, USMX stated: "Reaching an agreement will require negotiating – and our full focus is on how to return to the table to further discuss these vital components, many of which are intertwined. We cannot agree to preconditions to return to bargaining – but we remain committed to bargaining in good...

Live Updates: Key Developments in the East and Gulf Coast Port Strike

October 3: The port strike has entered its third day and the United States Maritime Alliance (USMX) signaled that they are willing to resume negotiations with the International Longshoremen's Association (ILA), but without preconditions made by the union. 

In an update provided Wednesday, USMX stated: "Reaching an agreement will require negotiating – and our full focus is on how to return to the table to further discuss these vital components, many of which are intertwined. We cannot agree to preconditions...

The Retail Rundown:  Port Strike Sends Shockwaves Throughout Supply Chain 

The strike at East and Gulf Coast ports officially began once the calendar turned to October, following unsuccessful contract negotiations between the International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA) and the United States Maritime Alliance (USMX).

The strike's impact is being felt throughout the supply chain, causing significant disruptions in the flow of goods ahead of the rapidly approaching holiday season. 

In a statement released on Tuesday, USMX stated that its current offer includes a nearly 50% wage increase. In response, ILA said it has rejected USX's offer "because it fails to address...

ANALYSIS: Japan's Aug 2024 Beef Imports Dips 0.9% M-o-M; Australia and New Zealand Lead Yearly Gains

Japan’s August 2024 beef imports slipped by just 0.9% month-on-month (m-o-m) to 48,884 metric tonnes (mt), according to the latest data from Trade Statistics of Japan.

Marking the fourth consecutive month below the 50,000 mt threshold, the pace of import growth was eroded by Japan’s blistering summer conditions and a weak yen, which has contributed to a slowdown in the dining-out sector.

Compared to the same period last year, imports grew a healthy 7.0%...

Hurricane Helene Intensifies U.S. Agriculture Disruptions As Port Strike Officially Starts

Hurricane Helene, a powerful Category 4 storm, made landfall in Florida's Big Bend region on September 26, 2024. The storm caused widespread destruction across the southeastern U.S., with the death toll approaching 125 as of this writing. 

Its damaging winds, storm surge, and flooding led to power outages and infrastructure damage in Florida, Georgia, Tennessee, and the Carolinas–with the Carolinas seemingly suffering the greatest impacts. Parts of North Carolina are submerged under water, where roads have been washed out and properties have been flattened. As of October 1...

IHOP Is Bringing Weekends to the Weekdays to Celebrate the New Value-Driven House Faves Menu

Today, IHOP® announced it’s bringing the weekend to the weekday by inviting guests to enjoy its new House Faves menu every Monday through Friday from 7am-10pm, for just $6. IHOP prides itself on listening and reacting to guest feedback quickly; knowing customers are constantly looking for more ways to save when dining out with their families, the brand curated its House Faves menu with some of its best-selling breakfast items for guests to enjoy for just $6...

ANALYSIS: Korea Poised for Early Activation of Safeguard Mechanism on Australian Beef Amid US Supply

Australian beef imports into Korea could face a tariff rate increase of 24.0% as the Special Agricultural Safeguard (SSG) mechanism is expected to activate earlier than in previous years. Korea's increasing reliance on Australian beef amid dwindling US supply has long suggested an earlier activation of the safeguard tariffs. 

Under the Korea-Australia Free Trade Agreement (KAFTA), the safeguard volume for this year is set at 188,437 metric tonnes (mt). Any imports exceeding this safeguard volume limit in 2024 will incur a tariff rate of 24.0%...

Burger King® Gets a Jump (Scare) on Halloween with Limited Time Menu Additions

This Halloween, Burger King® – home of the flame-grilled Whopper® – is teaming up with Amazon MGM Studios Consumer Products and the animated adaptations of The Addams Family to serve up scary delicious takes on some of the brand’s most iconic menu items. Available starting Thursday, Oct. 10 at participating restaurants while supplies last, the new The Addams Family Menu features four delicious items – each inspired by a different character from the beloved animated films.

Over the years, Burger King has given its...

ANALYSIS: Mexico’s Livestock Trade Deficit Persists Amid Volatile USD:MXD

The Grupo Consultor de Mercados Agrícolas (GCMA) reported that Mexico's livestock trade balance remains in deficit, driven by increasing domestic prices that spurred record beef and pork imports. Between January and July 2024, meat imports totaled 1.67 million tonnes, a 6.3% increase from the same period in 2023.

Homero García de la Llata, president of Mexicos National Confederation of Livestock Organizations (CNOG), pointed out that several problems and weaknesses are affecting livestock farming in Mexico. These include low productivity, limited financing, and a lack of innovation and technology....

ANALYSIS: Imported Cattle Shake Up US Beef Market

The U.S. boxed beef market has had its fair share of trials and tribulations this year and they only seem to be growing as unfamiliar trends continue to emerge. One of those trends that has largely been absent through the last couple years during the contraction in the U.S. cattle herd, is imported cattle from Mexico and Canada. Fast forward to the present day, this trend is alive and well and has been causing some uncertainty in the market as both sides of the aisle try to gauge the...

ANALYSIS: Production Shortfall Drives New Zealand's Aug 2024 Beef Exports to 10-Month Lows

New Zealand’s August 2024 beef exports totalled 31,741 metric tonnes (mt), hitting the lowest levels since October 2023, according to the latest data from Stats NZ. The volume fell by 18.2% (-7,072 mt) compared to the previous month.

Marking a 10-month low, and falling for the third consecutive month, this decline was primarily driven by New Zealand's two key markets, the United States (US) and China, with smaller drops also seen in markets like Canada, Japan, Korea, and Taiwan. In-month volumes was also...

The Retail Rundown: Onwards to October

With October nearing, the shift in retail meat features from grilling cuts to roasts is picking up pace. More households are utilizing their ovens and crockpots, making it prime time for hearty ingredients like chuck roasts and pork shoulders.

Still, warmer weather lingers in some regions. For those with favorable grilling conditions, shoppers may find deals on items like steaks, ribs, and pork chops as retailers work to move any extra inventory. 

This week’s retail buying opportunities show seafood continuing to lead, making up 26.9% of protein advertisements, followed by pork at 24.7%, beef at 21.2%...

USMEF Statement on Colombia Fully Reopening to U.S. Beef

With the Colombian government recently lifting its ban on U.S. beef originating from states in which H5N1 was detected in dairy cows, the Export Library for Colombia has been updated to reflect restored access for beef from 14 states.

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

On behalf of USMEF’s membership, I want to thank the U.S. government, and especially the teams at the USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS), Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS) and Food Safety and Inspection...

ANALYSIS: China on the Brink of Imposing 12.0% Tariff on Australian Beef Amid Rising Imports

China is on the verge of triggering the Special Agricultural Safeguard (SSG) mechanism for Australian beef imports, with only 21,968 metric tonnes (mt) remaining before a 12.0% Most-Favoured Nation (MFN) tariff is enforced.

By the end of August 2024, imports had reached 156,450 mt, nearing the 178,418 mt threshold. Most market players now anticipate that the safeguard volume mechanism will be triggered by early October, though delays in port clearance due to Typhoon Bebinca may push this to mid-October...

ANALYSIS: Korea's August 2024 Beef Imports Defy Decade-Long Trend, Falls 1.2% M-o-M

Korea's August 2024 beef imports hit 38,128 metric tonnes (mt), slipping 1.2% (-448 mt) month-on-month (m-o-m), according to the latest figures from the Korea Customs Service.

While the monthly decrease was modest, it marked the first decline since 2014. Historically, August imports tend to rise from July in anticipation of the major holiday, Chuseok. 

This drop was primarily driven by reduced supply from the United States, impacted by a herd size crunch, although it was partially offset by higher...

O’Charley’s Rolls Out the Red Carpet with New V.I.P. Menu and Expanded Core Menu Featuring Prime Rib

O’Charley’s Restaurant + Bar is excited to announce the launch of its new Value Inspired Plates (V.I.P.) menu on September 23. With 15 budget-friendly items all priced at $12.99 and under, guests can enjoy incredible flavors and great value without breaking the bank. Who says being a V.I.P. has to come with a big price tag?

As a V.I.P., you’re invited to indulge in a variety of delicious dishes that deliver both value and flavor...

Laoban Doubles Retail Footprint, Expanding Into Major Conventional Retailers

Laoban, the Asian frozen food brand known for using high-quality ingredients to make mouth-watering dumplings and bao buns, has doubled its retail distribution by adding 6,000 points of distribution.

In the past month alone, Laoban launched its dumpling line in thousands of Walmart and Kroger stores. The company also increased the distribution of its new Bao Bun, now available at Sprouts nationwide. Beginning next month, one Bao Bun flavor will also be available at over 200 Target locations across the country. Laoban will also release another exclusive product...

A.1. Enters the Dairy Aisle with Bold New Innovation: Steakhouse Butter

This fall, A.1., the brand known for its iconic steak sauce, is going beyond the condiment aisle with the debut of A.1. Steakhouse Butter. Marking the brand’s first innovation outside the sauce bottle in more than five years, A.1. Steakhouse Butter provides the perfect combination of delicious authentic steakhouse-inspired flavors and a buttery, creamy texture elevating grill enthusiasts’ favorite meals.

From cowboy butter to garlic butter, millions of food enthusiasts are crafting viral butter-based recipes to give their...

ANALYSIS: China’s Aug 2024 Beef Imports Up 7.4% MoM Before Holidays; Economic Woes Sink YoY Growth

China’s August 2024 beef imports rose 7.4% month-on-month (m-o-m) to 231,335 metric tonnes (mt), according to the data released by the General Administration of Customs People's Republic of China.

Monthly increases were recorded at 16,013 mt, representing the second consecutive rise since June's 13-month low, fuelled by increased shipments from Brazil, its top supplier.

The higher import figures were in line with market expectations ahead of the winter season. Historically, demand for red...

Cracker Barrel Reports Fourth Quarter Fiscal 2024 Results

Cracker Barrel Old Country Store, Inc. today reported its financial results for the fourth quarter of fiscal 2024 ended August 2, 2024. In 2024, the fourth quarter and fiscal year included an additional operating week ("53rd week") compared to fiscal 2023.

Fourth Quarter Fiscal 2024 Highlights

• The Company reported total revenue of $894.4 million for the fourth quarter of fiscal 2024, representing an increase of 6.9% compared to prior year quarter total revenue of $836.7 million 
• Total revenue for the fourth quarter of fiscal 2024 includes...

The Retail Rundown: Going All-Out for Autumn

Fall is just around the corner, with the official start of autumn this Sunday, September 22. As cooler weather sets in and travel plans wind down, grocers are ramping up their offerings of seasonal favorites to align with the change in consumer preferences. 

According to the Expana Retail Activity Index, seafood continues to lead for the fourth week in a row, making up 30% of total protein ads. Beef and pork are close behind, each at around 25%, while chicken accounts for 14%. Eggs represent 2.8% of retail opportunities, and turkey has 2.3%...

ANALYSIS: The State of 81% Coarse Grinds Amid Summer's End

With summer coming to a close, let’s take a look at one of our summer favorites, coarse 81% grinds. This past year 81% coarse grinds have seen very stout levels of demand as consumers largely opted for cost-conscious beef options. This has given the item an uplift of nearly 36% year-to-date to $3.18/lb. This is approximately 16% higher than last year and 29% above the 3-year average during the same period. In 2023, we saw typical post Labor Day...

JBS USA and GreenGasUSA Partner to Transform Renewable Natural Gas Production

JBS USA, a leading global food producer, and GreenGasUSA today announced a new partnership to produce renewable natural gas (RNG) at multiple JBS beef and poultry processing facilities across the U.S.

Climate change and food security are two seemingly competing challenges — feeding a future world of 10 billion people with safe, nutritious, affordable food while also urgently helping the food system address environmental impacts and reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions.

JBS believes it has a responsibility to help lead sustainable transformation by example and, as a result...

The Wendy's Company Announces Executive Leadership Appointments

The Wendy's Company announced today the appointment of John Min as the Company's Chief Legal Officer and Secretary and Mary Greenlee as Senior Vice President, U.S. Operations, effective today. These appointments represent the continued evolution of the Company's leadership structure to drive accountability and accelerate growth. Min will report to President and Chief Executive Officer, Kirk Tanner, and Greenlee will report to President, U.S., Abigail Pringle. Min succeeds E.J. Wunsch, who was appointed as Wendy's President, International in June 2024.

"I'm pleased to welcome John and Mary to the Wendy's team...

Red Lobster Emerges from Bankruptcy, Officially Names New CEO

Red Lobster has closed the book on its bankruptcy and enters a new era with a new captain at the helm.

The seafood restaurant chain announced its exit from Chapter 11 bankruptcy and the completion of its acquisition by RL Investor Holdings LLC. The firm also officially announced Damola Adamolekun as its new CEO.

Earlier this month, a federal court approved Red Lobster’s bankruptcy plan, paving the way for RL Investor Holdings to snatch up the company and keep its over 500 locations in operation, along with the...

Dearborn Sausage Company, Inc. Recalls Wiener Products Due to Misbranding and Undeclared Allergens

Dearborn Sausage Company, Inc., a Dearborn, Mich. establishment, is recalling approximately 1,944 pounds of ready-to-eat (RTE) wiener products due to misbranding and undeclared allergens, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today. The labels of the two products implicated in the recall were inadvertently swapped resulting in soy, a known allergen, and pork not being declared on the product labels.

The RTE wiener items were produced August 7, 2024. The following...

The Retail Rundown: Rising Feature Volume for Roasts

This month marks an ideal blend of seasons for the retail sector, as grilling cuts continue to be featured along with autumn favorites like hearty roasts and everything pumpkin. The shift to cooler weather is already being reflected in increased promotions for pork and beef roasts, which have earned a larger share of circular ad space this week. 

In the beef category, roasts now account for 26.4 percent of total ad space, up from 17 percent the previous week. Steak promotions eased to 36.9 percent, a nearly 10-point decline from...

Chipotle Brings Back Smoked Brisket in the U.S. and Canada

Chipotle Mexican Grill (NYSE: CMG) today announced Smoked Brisket is back on the grill at participating restaurants in the U.S. and Canada for a limited time. Smoked Brisket has remained a top requested menu item for Chipotle to bring back among fans on social media since it was first introduced three years ago.

We are listening to our guests and bringing this fan-favorite menu innovation out of the vault after three years," said Chris Brandt, Chief Brand Officer. "This premium protein...

Chomps to Open State-of-the-Art Manufacturing Facility in 2025 to Meet Growing Demand

Chomps, the fastest–growing snack and food brand in the U.S.1, today announces a new state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Mexico, Missouri, slated to open in 2025. This exciting development marks the next phase in Chomps' long-standing strategic partnership with Western Smokehouse Partners (WSP) and will support Chomps' rapid growth, allowing the brand to meet an increasing consumer demand for better-for-you meat snacks.

The co-investment in a new facility with WSP comes on the heels of Chomps' most...

Anthrax Confirmed in Wyoming Cattle for First Time Since 1970s

According to the Wyoming Livestock Board, anthrax was confirmed in multiple beef herds in Carbon County on August 31, 2024. This marks the first time the bacterial disease has been confirmed in Wyoming cattle since the 1970s.

“Multiple state agencies and private veterinarians responded quickly following the anthrax diagnosis by the Wyoming State Veterinary Laboratory. Protecting animal and human health is critical upon diagnosis of a zoonotic disease,” said Dr. Hallie Hasel, Wyoming State Veterinarian. 

“The Wyoming Livestock Board will continue working with producers and private veterinarians to reduce further...

ANALYSIS: Australia's Aug 2024 Beef Exports Dip from Record Highs; US-Bound Volumes at 9-Year High

Australia's August 2024 beef and veal exports scaled back from record highs to 121,797 metric tonnes (mt), the latest data from the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Forestry (DAFF) revealed.

Volumes shed 6.3% (-8,201 mt) from July’s all time high of 129,998 mt. This decline was primarily driven by reduced exports to major clients such as Japan, China, and Korea, despite continued strength in exports to the tight United States (US) market.

Annually, exports surged by 19.0% (+19,446 mt), driven by increased... 

KPOT Announces Opening of 80th Location, First Location in NYC

KPOT Korean BBQ & Hot Pot, a unique, hands-on, all-you-can-eat dining experience that merges traditional Asian Hot Pot with Korean BBQ flavors, today announces the opening of its 80th location, which also happens to be its first location in New York City located at 310 W 38th St in Manhattan’s Midtown West neighborhood.

KPOT offers a diverse culinary experience with an extensive selection of premium meats, fresh seafood, and crisp vegetables for both its BBQ and Hot Pot offerings...

The Retail Rundown: September's Seasonal Shifts

Although there are about two weeks left to enjoy summer, many consider the season unofficially over following Labor Day. The retail landscape is starting to reflect this shift, where factors like cooler weather and football season are already influencing consumer demand. 

The frozen/convenience aisles and deli counters benefit from back-to-school needs and provide quick meals for busy households. Circana data indicates that prepared dishes/kits earned $18.1 million in total sales last week, up from $17.7 million the week prior. Over in lunchmeat, fresh packaged turkey retailed at $7.21 discounted, an 18-cent year-over-year decrease.  

Papa Johns Announces PepsiCo as its Beverage Partner in North America

Today, Papa John's International, Inc. announced its selection of PepsiCo as its exclusive beverage supplier for restaurants in North America through a 10-year contract renewal. The extension of this partnership showcases the brand's ongoing commitment to deliver exceptional value to its customers and franchise partners by offering quality products that customers expect.

The partnership will also underscore the brand's strategy by supporting Papa Johns marketing efforts through additional investment from Pepsi, while also encouraging North American development expansion through incentives to drive new store growth...

ANALYSIS: Japan's July 2024 Beef Imports Surge 27.5% Y-o-Y; Tourism Spike Supports Growth

Japan’s beef imports in July 2024 reached the second highest monthly total of the year, rising 3.8% month-on-month (m-o-m) by 1,789 metric tonnes (mt) to 49,347 mt, according to the latest data from Trade Statistics of Japan.

Earlier in February, volumes hit a five-year low at 31,012 mt, but still fell in line with typical import patterns.

On a yearly basis, imports grew a staggering 27.5% (+10,649 mt), led strongly by higher Australian volumes. In 2023...

Hickory Hollow Jerky Recalls Ready-To-Eat Jerky Products Produced Without Benefit of Inspection

Hickory Hollow Jerky, a Eufaula, Ala., establishment, is recalling approximately 6,229 pounds of ready-to-eat jerky products that were produced without the benefit of federal inspection, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today.

The beef jerky and bacon jerky products were produced on various dates between Jan. 19, 2024-Aug. 21, 2024. The products were produced without the benefit of inspection by two different owners of the establishment. Ownership changed hands on...