Atlast Raises $40M to Expand Production of Whole Cut Plant-Based Meat

Atlast Food Co., the mycelium food company growing the future of plant-based meats, announced a $40M Series A round to develop and supply whole cut plant-based meat to partners around the globe, including directly to consumers through its own brand MyEats. Viking Global Investors led the round with participation from 40 North, AiiM Partners, Senator Investment Group, Stray Dog Capital, Footprint Coalition Ventures, and others. Also joining were the leaders and founders of food and CPG companies, including Applegate, Stonyfield, and Whole Foods. This funding will support the further development and scaling of this technology and team.

"This investment will allow us to meet the incredible demand we've felt for our product," said Stephen Lomnes, President of Atlast Food Co. "We are building the largest mycelium production facility in the U.S. to...

ANALYSIS: Chicken Index Product of Unprecedented Market Influencers

Over the past year, there have been very few stones left unturned as the industry and observers of it have navigated their way through unprecedented times. Presently, the chicken market is experiencing...

Nathan’s Famous Adds to Hand-Dipped Chicken Sandwich Menu

Nathan’s Famous announced new additions to its recently evolved line of chicken sandwiches. The two new additions, the Nashville Hot Fried Chicken Sandwich and Sticky, Spicy Grilled Chicken Sandwich, will feature the more flavorful boneless, skinless chicken thigh, unique to QSR and Fast Casual restaurants, but popular with chefs and foodies across the country.

"We continue to evolve our menu based on customer preference and feedback, and the two new chicken sandwiches are no exception,” states James Walker, Senior Vice President, Restaurants. “After a great deal of research and development, we found that the use of the chicken thigh gave...

Applebee's Announces Return of Irresist-A-Bowls

Applebee’s Irresist-A-Bowls are making their return. Now and for a limited time, guests can enjoy their favorite bowls available for Dine-In, To Go or Delivery.

Each of Applebee’s Irresist-A-Bowls come with abundant toppings and are served up in different flavor combinations. Consumers can try the new Grilled Chicken & Spinach Alfredo Bowl or celebrate the return of our Crispy Orange Chicken Bowl.

The menu includes...

Nathan’s Famous Launches Value Menu Featuring Old Favorites and New Items

Nathan’s Famous announced the launch of its new value menu, featuring items from the current menu, as well as new recipes, all between $4 and $7. The launch of the Nathan’s Famous value menu provides expanded premium menu options for value conscious customers, making Nathan’s Famous more accessible for any occasion and any budget.

"For more than 100 years, Nathan’s Famous has been one of America’s top destinations for great food fast, and our goal with this new value menu launch is to make it accessible too,” states James Walker, Senior Vice President, Restaurants. “We’ve spent the past two years evolving the menu to focus on premium offerings that are memorable, craveable and Instagrammable. These new value menu items offer that same level of appeal, but...

Tyson Foods Invests $425 Million in New Tennessee Poultry Complex

Tyson Foods along with local, state and federal officials met Thursday to officially open the company’s new poultry complex in Humboldt, Tennessee. The $425 million project, which includes a processing plant, feed mill and hatchery, represents Tyson’s biggest investment in Tennessee and the single largest corporate investment ever in Gibson County.

“We’re pleased to add to the growth in Gibson County with the opening of our new 370,000 square foot processing facility,” said Dean Banks, President and CEO, Tyson Foods. “We appreciate the support of all those who played a role in making this facility possible—the local community, county, state and...

ANALYSIS: Chicken Wings Head into Overtime

It isn’t often that chicken wings continue to command the limelight in Q2. But despite the conclusion of March Madness, and in the absence of any wing-centric holidays on the immediate horizon, the market...

Jimmy Dean Launches New Breakfast Nuggets and Skillets 

Jimmy Dean is helping keep breakfast exciting with new Breakfast Nuggets and Skillets varieties.

"We know it's important to people to have a variety of breakfast options in order to keep mornings delicious and fun," said Scott Glenn, senior director of marketing, Jimmy Dean brand. "We believe breakfast helps people have a great start to their day, whether on-the-go with our bite-sized Breakfast Nuggets, or...

Tyson Foods' Ball Park Introduces Fully Loaded Nacho Cheese Franks

The weather is warming, sounds of the ballpark are back in swing, and there’s a new frank on the team. Introducing the new Ball Park® Fully Loaded Nacho Cheese Franks, a summer flavor mashup in one frank that fans can enjoy at home.

A recent survey found hot dogs are the most-loved foods at stadiums and arenas, with nearly half of American adults indicating that hot dogs are among their favorite foods to eat when visiting a large sports or event space. The next-most popular foods at stadiums and arenas include nachos and popcorn.

With the new Fully Loaded Nacho Cheese Franks, consumers don’t have to choose between their favorites. Available starting this month, the franks are made with...

Plant-Based Food Sales Surpass $7 Billion, Sales Up 27% in 2020

According to the Plant Based Foods Association (PBFA), U.S. retail sales of plant-based foods continued to increase by double digits in 2020, growing 27% and bringing the total market value to $7 billion. This sales growth was consistent across the country, with more than 25% growth in every U.S. census region.

In the past two years, plant-based food sales have grown 43%, which is nine times faster than total food sales. In 2020, about 57% of all U.S. households purchased plant-based foods, up from 53% in 2019 totaling 71 million households.

PBFA also found that the value of plant-based meat, while the second-largest plant-based category, hit $1.4 billion in 2020. That represents sales growth of 45% from 2019. The plant-based meat category grew twice as fast as...

Ruby Tuesday Brings Back FreshMex Menu

Ruby Tuesday is offering diners a new lineup of their Southwestern favorites with the introduction of Ruby’s FreshMex spring feature menu.

Now for a limited time, guests can try Ruby’s FreshMex entrees starting at $8.99, including Chicken, Shrimp or Veggie Fajitas, Southwest Fried Chicken Bowl, Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowl, Chicken Queso Burrito and Chicken & Queso Tacos.

“Ruby Tuesday is committed to making eating out affordable, delicious and truly comfortable for our guests. We are excited to re-introduce Ruby’s FreshMex entrees that proved to be...

Blue Apron Partners with Chef Roy Yamaguchi to Create a Hawaii-Inspired Menu

Blue Apron is partnering with James Beard award-winning Chef Roy Yamaguchi to bring his culinary expertise to kitchens around the country. Available to order starting today, the Blue Apron x Chef Roy Yamaguchi menu features Hawaii-inspired recipes, representing a blend of French and Japanese cooking traditions using fresh ingredients typically found in Hawaii cuisine.

"I am thrilled to partner with Blue Apron to shine a spotlight on Hawaii-inspired cuisine and its roots," said Chef Roy Yamaguchi. "In collaboration with their culinary team, we created recipes that highlight...

Checkers & Rally's Joins the Chicken Sandwich Wars with the Candied Bacon Mother Cruncher

Checkers & Rally's is taking the QSR chicken sandwich wars to the next level. From April 5 through May 16, 2021, the brand is serving up a new version of their Mother Cruncher Chicken Sandwich, now topped with candied bacon.

Checkers & Rally's Classic Mother Cruncher chicken sandwich made its debut last summer and quickly became one of the brand's best-selling sandwiches. The Mother Cruncher's "mega crunch" breading and creamy, signature Squawk Sauce raised the bar in the QSR space.

Now, the Candied Bacon Mother Cruncher takes the Mother Cruncher's extra-crispy, all-white-meat fried chicken breast and tops it with...

Wendy's Bacon Double Stack is Back in the Biggie Bag

Wendy's is giving consumers a chance to #SecureTheBag with the return of the Bacon Double Stack in one of its best deals - the $5 Biggie Bag. The Bacon Double Stack – featuring two beef patties, Applewood smoked bacon, cheese, ketchup, mustard, pickle and onion – is back in this ultimate meal deal. With the Bacon Double Stack, customers will get 4-piece chicken nuggets (Spicy or Crispy), small fries and a small drink for just $5.

The $5 Biggie Bag is available now at participating Wendy's restaurants nationwide. Wendy's is always customer-first when it comes to value. From introducing...

ANALYSIS: WOGS--How Quickly We Forget

It’s no secret that the vast majority of key lines within the chicken complex have performed quite admirably throughout Q1...

Sweet Earth Foods Announces Three New Plant-Based Mindful Chik'n Flavors

Plant-based foods innovator Sweet Earth Foods is announcing the expansion of its best-selling Mindful Chik'n™ Strips line with the release of three new ready-to-eat seasoned offerings available this spring and summer. The new products feature flavorful, globally inspired marinades, providing hungry consumers with a quick plant-based protein option for snacking or adding to a variety of recipes.

New varieties will be available on-shelves starting in early April at stores across the country, including Whole Foods, Meijer, HEB, Ahold, Sprouts and a variety of other grocers. The products are all vegan, made using wholesome ingredients and nutrient dense; each serving includes at least 13 grams of protein and four grams of dietary fiber. New flavors include...

U.S. Top Chicken and Turkey Exporter to China

The U.S. was the top exporter of chicken and turkey to China in the first two months of the new year, according to newly released data from the General Administration of Customs China (GACC).

In January, the U.S. surpassed Brazil for the third consecutive month as the leader for broiler imports by China with a total of 56,214 tons, compared to 51,290 tons by...

Canada’s Sofina Foods Buys Eight Fifty Food Group, Owner of Young’s Seafood

Eight Fifty Food Group, the owner of Young’s Seafood, is being sold to Sofina Foods, a leading Canadian multi-protein producer. The sale has been agreed upon by CapVest partners, an international private equity firm. The amount of the sale has not been disclosed.

CapVest acquired leading UK pork processor Karro Food Group in 2017. Two years later CapVest acquired the UK’s iconic seafood business, Young’s Seafood, creating Eight Fifty Food Group. Eight Fifty Food Group later consolidated five other protein businesses from across Europe to become a...

ANALYSIS: Chicken Rearing to Go

For the second month this year, broiler type pullet placements have advanced considerably above 2020 levels...

Del Taco Enters the Chicken Wars with New Menu Items 

Del Taco Restaurants continues to innovate with crispy chicken with the sweet, tangy smokiness of Honey Chipotle BBQ sauce. While some quick service brands have introduced a single sandwich during the crispy chicken wars, Del Taco’s new Honey Chipotle BBQ Taco and Epic Burrito bring the total to 11 unique and new crispy chicken items introduced since July 2020.

For a limited time, the new sauce flavor will be available on the following items...

Popeyes Announces Agreement to Open Restaurants Across India, Bangladesh, Nepal and Bhutan

Popeyes® and Jubilant Foodworks Limited ("JFL") announced exciting new plans to develop and open hundreds of Popeyes® restaurants across India, Bangladesh, Nepal and Bhutan in the coming years.

"We're excited to introduce our iconic Louisiana-style chicken to a new population in the world that already celebrates and loves bold and delicious flavours," said David Shear, President RBI International, parent company of Popeyes®. "At Popeyes®, we believe that the best food takes time, we marinate our chicken for 12 hours in bold Louisiana seasonings, then hand batter and slowly cook it to make it the juiciest and crispiest chicken that I think our guests will ever have."

Founded in New Orleans in 1972, Popeyes® has more than 45 years of history and culinary tradition. Popeyes® distinguishes itself with a unique New Orleans style menu featuring...

ANALYSIS: Chicken Back-Half Items: An Unbroken Chain

Most key items within the chicken complex have exhibited an admirable seasonal performance so far this year and back half lines are by no means an exception...

PODCAST: Rolling with the Punches - Cage-Free Expansions and More Impacting the Egg Market

Egg market guru Brian Moscogiuri fills us in this week on 52-week highs in the egg product market thanks to foodservice recovery, Avian Influenza in Asia affecting the export market, and the cage-free movement’s impact on the shell egg and egg product markets. Hosted by Laura Zinger, the latest episode of Urner Barry’s Market Digest fills us in on the egg market in 2021.

Did you know? Urner Barry's Market Digest Podcast is now available on Spotify, iTunes, Apple Podcast, iHeartRadio, and SoundCloud! More ways to listen to top industry news and analysis.

Yum China has Acquired a 5% Equity Interest in Fujian Sunner Development

Yum China Holdings, Inc. announced that it has acquired a 5% equity interest in Fujian Sunner Development Co., Ltd.

Founded in 1983 and headquartered in the Fujian Province, Sunner is China's largest white- feathered chicken producer. Sunner has a vertically integrated business model covering the full production chain, which primarily includes chicken breeding and farming, feed processing and meat processing.

"We are excited to become a strategic investor in Sunner, our largest poultry supplier. Yum China and Sunner are longstanding business partners. The management team of Sunner has demonstrated exceptional execution capabilities over the years," said Joey Wat, CEO of Yum China. "With this strategic investment, we look forward to...

FSIS Issues Public Health Alert for Chicken Soup Product Due to Misbranding

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) is issuing a public health alert due to misbranding. The chicken soup product contains and declares wheat as an ingredient but has an incorrect statement of "gluten free" on the top label. FSIS is issuing this public health alert to ensure that consumers with allergic reactions to gluten are aware that these products should not be consumed. A recall was not requested because the affected products were produced and distributed among retail locations within the same corporate entity and sold directly to consumers. It is believed that these products are no longer available to be purchased by consumers.

The ready-to-eat chicken noodle soup products subject to the public health alert are...

ANALYSIS: MSC Enjoys Unseasonal Updraft in Value

It isn’t often that MSC takes the spotlight, especially so early in the year before seasonal springtime demand has a chance to fully develop, but...

ANALYSIS: Boneless Breasts: Searching for Seasonality

Most key lines within the chicken complex have performed quite admirably so far this year and jumbo boneless breasts are no exception...

Nathan’s Famous Continues International Expansion in North America and Beyond

Nathan’s Famous, Inc., announces the expansion of their products to Mexico City, Brazil, Canada, Indonesia, Malaysia and Singapore. The brand will also introduce its new virtual kitchen concept, Wings of New York, in all locations, with the exception of Brazil. Nathan’s Famous and Wings of New York will be available in a multitude of ways, including brick and mortar locations, ghost kitchens or retail, depending on the market.

“This is an exciting time for Nathan’s Famous and Wings of New York,” said James Walker, SVP, Restaurants. “We are embarking on a new chapter in our company as we continue to grow the brand’s presence all across the globe...

Popeyes Announces New Quality and Sustainability Commitments

Popeyes has announced new food quality commitments for the next 5 years as part of the Restaurant Brands for Good sustainability plan. The commitments are part of the brand’s work to serve responsibly sourced, high quality and great tasting food every day while continuously working to reduce its environmental footprint.

Real Ingredients - Popeyes® is working on removing colors, flavors and preservatives from artificial sources from fried chicken menu items in the U.S. by the end of 2022, starting with its famous Popeyes® Chicken Sandwich.

Antibiotics - Popeyes® is eliminating antibiotics important to human medicine from their chicken supply chain in the US and Canada by the end of 2021. This new sourcing policy supports...

Plant-Based Food Pioneers Fry Family Food Co. Announces National Launch at Sprouts

The Fry Family Food Co., a LIVEKINDLY Collective heritage brand, launched a national retail partnership in the U.S. with Sprouts Farmers Market. Fry's has been at the forefront of the plant-based movement for decades; founded in the Fry family kitchen in 1991, the brand celebrates its 30th anniversary this year.

From today, five of Fry's top plant-based products will be available in the freezer aisle at all Sprouts locations: Chick'N Nuggets, The Big Fry Burger, Chick'N Patties, Breakfast Links and...

J&J Distributing Recalls Ready-to-Eat Meat and Poultry Salads and Wrap Products

J&J Distributing, a St. Paul, Minn., establishment, is recalling approximately 33 pounds of ready-to-eat meat and poultry salads and wrap products that may be adulterated with Listeria monocytogenes (Lm), the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced.

The fully cooked, not shelf stable salads and wraps were produced and packaged on Feb. 23, 2021 and list a “Sell-by” date of Feb. 28, 2021 on the packaging label. The following products are subject to recall...

APHIS Reflects on 2015 HPAI Outbreak and Addresses the Importance of Biosecurity

In a recent webinar hosted by the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS), Dr. Dale Lauer, Dr. Rocio Crespo, and Dr. Denise Heard reflected on the Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) outbreak of 2015, and steps that can be taken to protect poultry flocks going forward.

HPAI can be spread from bird to bird through direct or indirect contact with infected birds including feathers, bodily discharge, or from the equipment, hands, shoes, and clothes of caretakers. Signs of the disease include depression, decreased feed and water intake, runny eyes and nose, and swollen head. The disease can affect an entire flock and has a death rate up to...

Beyond Meat Announces Global Strategic Agreements with McDonald's and Yum! Brands 

Following the release of its financial results for the fourth quarter and full year 2020, Beyond Meat announced a global strategic partnership with McDonald's and Yum! Brands to offer signature plant-based menu items.

As part of the three-year global agreement with McDonald's, Beyond Meat will be the preferred supplier for the patty in the McPlant, a new plant-based burger being tested in select McDonald's markets globally. Additionally, Beyond Meat and McDonald's will explore developing other plant-based menu items together, including options for chicken, pork, and eggs, as part of McDonald's broader McPlant platform.

The announcement further solidifies the relationship between McDonald's and Beyond Meat, which began in 2019 with the test of...

ANALYSIS: January Chicken Cold Storage Holdings: Talk About a Clean Sweep

Several months ago, we spoke about the near universal downturn exhibited in chicken cold storage figures and by the looks of the USDA’s most recent report, that same undertone...

While Chicken Sandwich Wars in the U.S. Intensify, Burgers Still Rule the Roost

No doubt that chicken sandwiches have gained a lot of attention over the past few years as more chicken restaurant concepts open and more chicken sandwiches appear on menus. The question is though, have these sandwich sensations knocked burgers from their perch as the top entrée item ordered at U.S. restaurants? That’s a hard “no,” says The NPD Group.

In the year ending 2020, burgers were included in 13.5% of all restaurant orders, which translated to 7 billion servings of burgers. Chicken sandwiches (breaded and grilled) were included in...

Sanderson Farms Reports Results for First Quarter of Fiscal 2021

Sanderson Farms, Inc., reported results for the first quarter of fiscal 2021.

Net sales for the first quarter of fiscal 2021 were $909.3 million compared with $823.1 million for the same period a year ago. The Company reported net income of $9.5 million, or $0.42 per share, for the quarter compared with a net loss of $38.6 million, or $1.76 per share, for the first quarter of fiscal 2020.

“Our results for the first quarter of fiscal 2021 reflect continuing challenges presented by the COVID-19 pandemic and higher feed grain prices, but we ended the quarter on a strong note amidst encouraging end-market trends and remain optimistic about the future,” said Joe F. Sanderson, Jr., chairman and chief executive officer of Sanderson Farms, Inc. “While market prices for boneless breast meat produced at our plants that process larger birds for food service customers remained under pressure during the first two months of the quarter, we saw...

Denny's Adds New Options to Melts and Bowls Lineup

Denny's is adding all new options to its Melts & Bowls lineup for the ultimate comfort food experience.

With the addition of four new Melts & Bowls, guests have even more combinations and flavors to choose from, truly offering something for every palate. The new selections are available nationwide and include...

Hormel Deli Solutions Launches New Brand Offering Consumers a Touch-Free Dinner Experience

As more consumers shop for touch-free meal options that are not challenging or time consuming to prepare, yet still deliver on quality, taste and convenience, retailers can turn to the Hormel Deli Solutions Group for the "perfect" selection. The new Perfect Plate™ products are made to make it easy for retailers to deliver what consumers are looking for in a touch-free, convenient meal while easing the back of house challenges that may come with prepared meal products.

"Our new Perfect Plate™ products were specifically designed for retailers to capitalize on this growing trend in prepared meal options, while eliminating the need for deli staff to assemble, or even handle the food before putting it on shelf," said Megan Ward, deli brand manager, Hormel Deli Solutions Group. "The Perfect Plate™ products offer...

From Animal Meat to Fungi, U.S. Consumers Tap into A Host of Sources to Get Protein into Their Diets

The want of more protein in their diets have U.S. consumers seeking the coveted macronutrient from a variety sources, reports The NPD Group. Protein, the nutritional counterpart to fat and carbohydrates, is considered the body’s building blocks, and can be found in a long list of foods, like seafood, meat, poultry, eggs, legumes, and vegetables.

In order to get more protein into their diets, consumers are availing themselves to all of these types of foods in addition to whatever might be the trendy protein of the day, like fungi, according to NPD’s Eating Patterns in America, an annual compilation of the company’s daily tracking of U.S. consumers’ eating behaviors away from and...

PODCAST: Feed the Demand - Matt Busardo on the Chicken Market

This week host Laura speaks with poultry market reporter Matt Busardo. Matt fills us in on plant closures due to severe weather, optimism in the export market, and...

Amidst COVID-19 Pandemic, Meat Contraband from China Hit Record Levels

In calendar year 2020, in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, the number of shipments containing prohibited pork, chicken, beef and duck products arriving from China intercepted by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) agriculture specialists in Los Angeles, nearly doubled compared with the previous year.

From Jan. 1, to Dec. 31, 2020, CBP in Los Angeles issued 1,049 Emergency Action Notifications (EAN) compared to 527 in 2019, a 99 percent increase. When unmanifiested/prohibited animal products are intercepted, CBP issues...

MorningStar Farms Offers Incogmeato Giveaway for Lent

During Lent, MorningStar Farms is offering consumers a meat-free option with products that still look and taste like meat. The versatile line-up including burger patties, plant-based ground, chik'n nuggets and more makes for the perfect swap, so it's easy to enjoy classic dishes like tacos, spaghetti bolognese or even chik'n and waffles while maintaining the Lent tradition of meatless Fridays.

"During Lent, we know people miss their hamburger on Friday night. Now, with Incogmeato, everyone can still enjoy their delicious Friday favorites the plant-based way with...

ANALYSIS: Q1 Production Outlook Lends Credence to Industry Expectations

The latest release of the USDA’s Livestock, Dairy and Poultry Outlook Report is slow to raise any eyebrows as the ready-to-cook (RTC) production forecast of most key lines continues to...

Wendy's New Jalapeño Popper Chicken Sandwich Heats Up the Chicken Wars

Wendy's unveiled two new bold menu items, the Wendy's Jalapeño Popper Chicken Sandwich and Salad, to its already-stacked chicken lineup.

"Inspired by classic jalapeño poppers fans know and love, my culinary team took the familiar flavors of the beloved appetizer and gave it a unique Wendy's twist only we can deliver," said John Li, Vice President of Culinary Innovation for The Wendy's Company. "The new Jalapeño Popper Chicken Sandwich and Salad brings Wendy's fans a bold, innovative flavor they can't get anywhere else. Each bite is graced by the perfect balance of...

A Look at Protein Demand as the Six-Week Lenten Period Begins 

As the six-week Lenten period leadup to Easter begins, foodservice and retail are catering to those who cannot eat meat at least one day a week. As SeafoodNews reported, restaurants like Bojangles, White Castle, and Quizno’s are just a few offering seafood items for a limited time.

Last year, Popeyes brought in a limited time Buttermilk Biscuit Shrimp offering for Lent. To switch things up this year, Popeyes introduced a new contender in the "Chicken Sandwich Wars," a Cajun Flounder Sandwich. But how could a new fish sandwich offering during Lent impact the chicken sandwich battle, which has become...

Sanderson Farms Provides Update on Operations Affected by Winter Storms

Sanderson Farms, Inc., provided an update on the Company’s operations and the impact of the severe winter storm that has affected the Company’s Texas, Louisiana, and Mississippi locations.

Winter storm Uri brought bitter cold temperatures, snow and ice, leaving millions without power across the Company’s footprint in Texas, Louisiana and Mississippi, on Monday, and Uri, along with winter storm Viola, will continue to affect operations. The National Weather Service reports extremely cold temperatures as low as...

Chicken Wing Prices Reach Record Highs

UB Consulting Takes a Fundamental Look at What’s Behind the Surge

Chicken wing prices have been at the forefront of the conversation for several weeks now. Why? Because wholesale spot market prices have reached record highs and are behaving in a non-seasonal manner. Historical price seasonality suggests strong buying commitments are made around the end of Q3 into the beginning of Q4 when prices reach their seasonal peak. These purchases are made in the middle of football season and get another seasonal bump into January prior to the Superbowl and March Madness. Yet, as we all know, 2020 has been a year in which historical behavior has been notably in disarray—and 2021 has begun in a similar manner with prices well over their seasonal averages.

Click HERE for the full report from UB Consulting... 

Church's Chicken Succeeds from Full-Scale Digital Transformation

It has been nearly two years since Church's Chicken first embarked on a digital transformation focused on reaching new guests with digital media and creating loyalty with engaging experiences at every interaction. In that time frame, digital has been a key driver of the brand's positive sales and growth, with 2020 turning in impressive results from this key focus area. The popular QSR chicken brand saw a 540% increase in Order Ahead sales in 2020 compared to the previous year, third-party delivery sales increased by 77% in the same period, and web digital conversion rate reached 16%. Like much of Church's steady growth and success over the past five years, the secret lies in a strong spirit of innovation and a renewed ability to be quick and nimble in adapting to both challenges and opportunities.

"The digital success we are seeing now is because of plans and initiatives first put in place in 2019," shares Alan Magee, Vice President of Digital Marketing & Technology for Church's. "The industry has been shifting to...

ANALYSIS: Don’t Sleep on Chicken Leg Quarters

With chicken front half items continuing to be the talk of the town, it’s easy to overlook the slightly less exhilarating, albeit seasonally admirable, status of frozen leg quarters...

Wingstop Brings Fan Favorite Flavors Back to Menus Nationwide

Wingstop is bringing back three popular remix flavors to menus nationwide as a limited time offering. Starting on Valentine's Day, one of the brand's busiest days of the year outside of the Big Game, fans will once again have access to Hot Lemon, Bayou BBQ and Lemon Garlic, available hand-sauced-and-tossed on bone-in and boneless wings as well as crispy tenders.

Valentine's Day marks a hallmark event for Wingstop as fans look to share flavor with the ones they love. This year, fans can stay in, relax, and get Wingstop's bold distinctive flavor via...

Tyson Foods Reports First 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 Quarter Highlights

• GAAP EPS of $1.28, down 7% from prior year; Adjusted EPS of $1.94, up 28% from prior year
• GAAP operating income of $705 million, down...

U.S. Poultry and Egg Exports Soared in 2020

U.S. broiler and egg exports increased in both volume and value in 2020, a year in which the industry set several all-time records in key markets despite the complications caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.

According to trade data released by the USDA Foreign Agricultural Service, the value of broiler exports to China reached an all-time high; the volume of broiler exports to Mexico was...

Popeyes Keeps Sandwich Wars Going With Introduction of Cajun Flounder Sandwich For Lent

This year for Lent Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen is introducing a new contender in their “Chicken Sandwich Wars” … their Cajun Flounder Sandwich.

In 2020 the popular restaurant chain brought in a limited time Buttermilk Biscuit Shrimp offering for Lent. In 2021 they’re switching things up by providing consumers with a chicken sandwich replacement. 

Beginning February 11, Popeyes customers across the nation can indulge in the Cajun Flounder Sandwich for just $4.49. The limited time Cajun Flounder Sandwich stars a fried filet on top of...

Bell & Evans to Transition 50,000 U.S. Acres to Certified Organic with Cargill, Rodale Institute

U.S. grain farmers have a new incentive to transition from conventional to organic practices, and Bell & Evans banks on many making the change.

Premium poultry producer Bell & Evans is experiencing significant growth in its organic chicken program, increasing its need for U.S. grown organic-certified corn and soybeans used in its organic chicken feed. The family-owned producer finalized a long-term sourcing agreement with global ag leader Cargill to exclusively secure its organic grain and increase domestic organic grain supply. Under the agreement, Cargill will incentivize...

ANALYSIS: Have Wings Reached Their Ceiling?

With Superbowl LV just days away, football fanatics around the country are pulling for their team to win and be crowned the victor of the 2020 NFL season...

VIDEO: Morning Market Roundup Feb 2

Watch Urner Barry's reporters give insight into what is happening in the markets for chicken, pork, beef and eggs....

ANALYSIS: Boneless Chicken Breasts in the Crosshairs

One of the first things that any Econ student quickly gets acclimated with is how the quantity of a given commodity that manufacturers want to sell and the quantity of consumers who wish to buy, interact with one another...

Church's Chicken Unveils New Signature Texas Tenders

Church's Chicken announced the arrival of its newest boneless chicken category offering: Church's Texas Tenders. Starting Jan. 28, Church's new Texas Tenders will be a permanent menu item, meeting the growing demand for high-quality boneless chicken and on-the-go menu options following the successful launch of the Church's Chicken Sandwich in October 2020. The Texas Tenders are big and bold, taking inspiration from Church's home state of Texas, and are debuting in the Tenders 'N Shrimp meal, a limited-time combo offering available for Lent.

"The evolution of our tenders with the introduction of our new Texas Tenders gives our guests even more reasons to choose Church's," said Brian Gies, chief marketing officer for Church's. "With the new Texas Tenders 'N Shrimp meal, we're combining two menu items packed with...

Americans to Eat Record 1.42 Billion Chicken Wings for Super Bowl LV

The COVID-19 pandemic has changed our lives in many ways. One thing that hasn’t changed: America’s love for chicken wings. This is no more apparent than on Super Bowl weekend, when Americans will devour a record 1.42 billion wings while watching the Kansas City Chiefs and Tampa Bay Buccaneers battle for the Lombardi Trophy.

This figure is up 2% from last year, according to the National Chicken Council’s annual Wing Report.

There are several reasons for the uptick, says National Chicken Council spokesman Tom Super. “If you think about it, restaurants like wing joints and pizza places were built around takeout and delivery, so they didn’t have to...

Cargill Expands Value-Added Protein Footprint Through Acquisition of ProPortion Foods

Cargill, the global food, agricultural, financial and industrial products company, announced the expansion of its value-added protein footprint through the acquisition of ProPortion Foods, a food manufacturer that supplies a variety of innovative fully cooked products, portion control steaks and marinated ready-to-grill meats.

Through the purchase, which closed in December 2020, Cargill gains two further-processed protein plants in Round Rock, Texas and Vernon, California. The Round Rock and Vernon facilities will deliver a variety of quality, fully cooked protein products for Cargill’s...

White Castle Introduces New Package Design for Sliders Sold in Grocery and Retail Stores Nationwide

On the heels of a record year – and a record decade – for its retail division, White Castle is introducing a brand-new look for its retail packaging.

The nation's first fast-food hamburger chain began rolling out the new design on select packages in October. By the end of March, all retail packages will sport the new look, which features a consumer-approved contemporary design with clean lines and bold colors to create consistency across the portfolio of products. The new design also appeals to customers' sense of taste with...

Spicy Chicken Nuggets and Mighty Hot Sauce are Returning to McDonald's

McDonald's Spicy Chicken McNuggets and Mighty Hot Sauce will be returning to participating restaurants nationwide February 1 for a limited time. These limited time menu offerings include:

• Spicy Chicken McNuggets: Breaded with a sizzling tempura coating made with both cayenne and chili peppers, Spicy Chicken McNuggets pack plenty of flavor and spice into each bite.
• Mighty Hot Sauce: The new Mighty Hot Sauce dialed up the spice last Fall, boasting a powerful blend of crushed red pepper and cayenne peppers, all balanced with...

Boston Market Brings the Heat to the Chicken Sandwich Wars with All-New Nashville Hot

Boston Market is heating things up this winter, with its first-ever crispy chicken sandwich. Available for a limited time, guests can fire up their taste buds with the Nashville Hot Crispy Chicken Sandwich, plus two additional Nashville Hot menu offerings, including a spicy new take on its rotisserie chicken. A new, fire-free Crispy Chicken BLT Sandwich and Crispy Chicken with White Gravy Meal, plus returning guest favorites Chicken Marsala and Roasted Garlic & Herb Chicken, are also hitting Boston Market restaurants for a limited time.

"2020 is behind us, and so are the chicken sandwich wars. We've been bringing the heat in our rotisserie ovens for more than 30 years, and our new Nashville Hot Crispy Chicken Sandwich proves that...

Chick-fil-A Heats Up Menu with Grilled Spicy Chicken Deluxe Sandwich

Chick-fil-A is kicking off the year by offering a grilled version of a spicy favorite. Starting January 25, Chick-fil-A is introducing the Grilled Spicy Chicken Deluxe Sandwich, available for a limited time at participating restaurants nationwide. The sandwich delivers the same flavor guests love from the current Chick-fil-A spicy offerings, now available in a grilled option.

The Grilled Spicy Deluxe was first developed and tested in Fall 2017 in select markets, where it received positive feedback from guests. It is the first limited-time entrée to be featured on the national menu since...

Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza Strikes South Korea’s Layer Houses

As Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) strikes South Korea’s layer houses killing more than 8 million hens, the country’s local shell egg prices have started to soar with a 22.4 percent increase compared with an average year as of Wednesday. Demand is especially high for eggs with the approaching Lunar New Year holiday February 11 - 14. As a result, the Korean government has decided to temporarily eliminate tariffs on egg imports for the first time since 2017.

According to The Korea Herald, South Korea's agricultural ministry said Wednesday it plans to “temporarily remove tariffs on imported egg products to resolve a supply shortage.” The government will...

ANALYSIS: The Tug of War Between Chicken Wings and Boneless Breasts

During October of last year, we explored the growing price disparity between jumbo boneless breast quotations and jumbo-sized whole wings...

The Latest Market Briefing is Here! 

Breakdown the poultry, egg, red meat and seafood markets with exclusive analysis from UB Market Reporters

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...

IHOP Introduces New Signature Burritos and Bowls

IHOP introduced its latest menu innovation, Burritos & Bowls, designed with flavor combinations and easy portability in mind. Starting today, guests can select from a lineup of six different builds – in breakfast, lunch and dinner varieties – all of which can either be wrapped in a flour tortilla or served in a bowl.

The six new Burritos & Bowls flavors range from signature ingredients, like IHOP’s hickory-smoked bacon and include hash browns to hotter fare like poblano queso sauce and...

USDA Offers Additional Assistance for Certain Producers Through Coronavirus Food Assistance Program

U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue announced the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) will provide additional assistance through the Coronavirus Food Assistance Program (CFAP), expanding eligibility for some agricultural producers and commodities as well as updating payments to accurately compensate some producers who already applied for the program. Producers who are now eligible and those who need to modify existing applications due to these updates can contact USDA’s Farm Service Agency (FSA) between Jan. 19 and Feb. 26. Some of these changes are being made to align with the recently enacted Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2021 while others are discretionary changes being made in response to ongoing evaluation of CFAP.

“The COVID-19 pandemic has left a deep impact on the farm economy, and we are utilizing the tools and monies available to ease some of the financial burdens on American producers to ensure...

Contract Broiler Growers Can Begin to Apply for Federal COVID-19 Relief on January 19

U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue announced the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) will provide additional assistance through the Coronavirus Food Assistance Program (CFAP), expanding eligibility for some agricultural producers and commodities as well as updating payments to accurately compensate some producers who already applied for the program. Producers who are now eligible and those who need to modify existing applications due to these updates can contact USDA’s Farm Service Agency (FSA) between January 19 and February 26.

Contract producers of broilers, pullets, laying hens, chicken eggs (breeders), turkeys and...

Nestlé Prepared Foods Recalls Not-Ready-to-Eat Pepperoni Hot Pockets Product

Nestlé Prepared Foods, a Mt. Sterling, Ky. establishment, is recalling approximately 762,615 pounds of not-ready-to-eat (NRTE) pepperoni hot pockets product that may be contaminated with extraneous materials, specifically pieces of glass and hard plastic, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced.

The frozen NRTE pepperoni hot pockets product was produced from Nov. 13, 2020 through Nov. 16, 2020. The product has a shelf life of 14 months. The following product is subject to recall...

Tyson Introduces New Instant Pot Kit Options

"What's for dinner?" has taken on an entirely new meaning over the last year with more people cooking at home. New flavors of Tyson Instant Pot Kits, Tyson Instant Pot Seasoned Proteins and Tyson Oven Ready Family Size Kits are just what families need to ease the burden and cooking fatigue—protein-packed meals offering that made from scratch taste without the effort.

Cooking and preparing meals from home has increased 67-percent since COVID-19 began. After months of home-cooked meals, families are turning to prepared foods and easy prep meals as a way to...

REPORTER: Wings Fly in the Face of Adversity

No year has tested Americans love for chicken wings like 2020. Rewind to March and the outlook for this line appeared bleak. The country and much of the world began to shut down one by one with the virus running rampant. March Madness had just been canceled, which many in the industry know is a historical boost to wings after the typical post-football season lull in February. Panic spread like wildfire as buyers who had been stocking up for the tournament were now caught flat footed. Prices began to degrade...