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The Retail Rundown: Pork and Seafood Share the Spotlight Next Month
Pork and seafood will share the spotlight next month, as October is recognized as both National Pork Month and National Seafood Month. Retailers are expected to increase feature volume for the two proteins in the weeks ahead to promote spending this fall.
October is reserved for National Pork Month to help move product when hog supplies are large. While a seasonal expansion in supplies typically takes place around this time of year, ongoing liquidation efforts may keep a lid on supplies this fall and winter.
Weekly hog slaughter levels...
Del Valle Import and Export, LLC, Recalls Ineligible Pork Chicharrones Product
Del Valle Import and Export, LLC, a distributor and importer located in Kenner, La., is recalling approximately 1,271 pounds of ready-to-eat (RTE) pork chicharrones product that was imported from Honduras, a country ineligible to export pork products to the United States, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today.
The following product is subject to recall, regardless of the product date [view label]:
100g foil pouch packages containing “DEL RANCHO CHICHARRONES AUTENTICOS 100% PRODUCTO DE CERDO.”...
Return of the King's Hawaiian® Pork & Slaw Sandwich After More Than Eight Years
Guests asked, and Firehouse Subs® listened. After a hiatus of more than eight years, the brand is celebrating the sweet return of the King's Hawaiian® Pork & Slaw Sandwich. Available for a limited time only in U.S. locations, the sandwich features slow-smoked pulled pork, melted pepper jack cheese, and sweet and tangy slaw all on a King's Hawaiian Original Hawaiian Sweet Bun.
"For more than eight years, guests have been continuously sending us messages asking us to bring back the King's Hawaiian Pork & Slaw," ...
Green Valley Foods Recalls Frozen Meat Pizza Products Due to Misbranding and Undeclared Allergens
Green Valley Foods, a Devils Lake, N.D. establishment, is recalling approximately 4,062 pounds of frozen meat pizza products due to misbranding and undeclared allergens, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today. The product contains soy, a known allergen, which is not declared on the product label.
The frozen meat pizza items were produced from September 20, 2022, through September 20, 2023, and may contain the lot codes 2632 through 2633. The following products are subject to recall...
USMEF Partners with Chilean Importer to Grow its Portfolio of U.S. Pork Cuts
To address reduced U.S. pork sales with a major importer in Chile, USMEF South American Representative Jessica Julca worked with the importer to develop a client database to segment its customers based on their purchasing patterns and potential needs.
“El Carnicero used to import several cuts of U.S. pork but with greater availability from competitors, they were down to importing one U.S. cut,” says Julca. “The database contains purchasing data for 211 of its customers and helps them to identify loyal customers and market opportunities...
Christensen Farms Announces Leadership Succession
Christensen Farms President and CEO, Glenn Stolt, a 13-year veteran of the company, announced his intention to retire from his position during the latter part of 2024 and is excited to announce the promotion of Greg Howard to President, effective immediately.
“At Christensen Farms, we continue to focus on building a development-oriented culture providing advancement opportunities for our team,” said Mr. Stolt. “This announcement, albeit at the senior level of the organization, demonstrates our commitment to proactive individual and organizational development and succession planning."...
NPPC Welcomes Meghan Cline as Director of Policy Communications
Meghan Cline has joined the National Pork Producers Council (NPPC) as director of policy communications. In her role, she will focus on strategies for effectively communicating NPPC’s policy positions to a wide variety of audiences, including producers, lawmakers, the media, and consumers.
“Meghan is a welcome addition to the NPPC communications team,” said NPPC Assistant Vice President of Marketing and Communications Annemarie Pender. “Her unique blend of industry, federal government, and global corporate experience will be an asset to NPPC.”
Cline most recently served as the director of communications for...
Volpi Foods Announces Product Launch in Target in Midwest and Southern U.S.
Volpi Foods, the fourth-generation family-owned charcuterie company based in St. Louis, is excited to announce its new partnership with Target in the Midwest and Southern U.S. regions. The company's line of high-quality charcuterie products will now be available in Target stores, offering customers a taste of traditional Italian dry-cured meats made with Raised Responsibly™ Midwest pork and packaged in the Eco-Pack™, Volpi's eco-friendly packaging that reduces plastic use by 80%. Plus, Volpi is a WBENC-certified business, the gold standard...
FSIS Issues Public Health Alert for Canned Meat Product Due to Possible Under Processing
The U.S. Department of Agriculture's Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) is issuing a public health alert for canned meat product due to under processing. FSIS is issuing this public health alert to ensure that consumers are aware that this product should not be consumed. A recall was not requested because it is believed that the product is no longer available for consumers to purchase.
The canned meat item was produced by Hormel Foods Corp. Services, LLC, an Austin, Minn. establishment, on Aug. 17, 2023...
Olymel Continues Consolidation Efforts, Announces Closure of Two Further Processing Plants
On Wednesday, Olymel announced the definitive closure of two of its further processing plants as part of the company's ongoing efforts to streamline its operations and ensure profitability across its facilities.
Olymel is the leading producer, processor, and distributor of pork and poultry in Canada. It has production and processing facilities in Quebec, Ontario, Alberta, Saskatchewan, and New Brunswick.
In its fresh pork sector, Olymel announced the closure of its boning and packaging plant in Princeville, Centre-du-Québec. The facility is slated to close on November...
Louisville CBP Agriculture Specialists Intercept Shipments with Prohibited Meat
U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Agriculture Specialists at the Louisville Port of Entry in Kentucky stopped 13 shipments containing Porky Pig’s Porky Pig’s relatives not declared in boxes from Hong Kong.
From August 20 to August 28, Agriculture Specialists intercepted the shipments, which were heading to the same company in Bellerose, New York. Each shipment contained pork items, some contained pork and poultry items, and one contained pork and other prohibited food, according to the CBP.
A total of 1,104 pounds of pork, 298 pounds of poultry, and 88 pounds of prohibited foods were seized...
Japan’s Largest Pork Cutlet Restaurant Chain Switches to U.S. Pork
Global strategies to build demand for the U.S. pork loin are paying dividends in several markets, including high-value market Japan. Katsuya, Japan’s largest pork cutlet restaurant chain, has switched to using U.S. pork loin and tenderloin at its 450 outlets.
“Our team is working closely with targeted foodservice accounts, looking for menu opportunitites for U.S. pork. We have had some successes this summer,” says USMEF Japan Director Satoshi Kato. “Katsuya appreciated our partnership approach and has switched to chilled U.S. pork...
July Pork Exports Continue Above Year-Ago; Slow Month for Beef Exports
Building on a robust first-half performance, July exports of U.S. pork continued to outpace year-ago levels, according to data released by USDA and compiled by USMEF. Beef exports took a step back in July, posting the lowest volume since January, but export value per head of fed slaughter again exceeded $400.
July pork exports totaled 219,014 metric tons (mt), up 5% year-over-year, while export value increased 1% to $628.7 million. Through the first seven months of 2023, pork exports were 13% above...
Empacadora Frape, USA LLC, Recalls Pork Products Imported Without Benefit of Import Reinspection
Empacadora Frape, USA LLC, the importer of record located in Houston, Texas, is recalling approximately 20,455 pounds of frozen, not ready to eat (NRTE) pork chicharron and pork carnitas products that were not presented for import reinspection into the United States, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today.
The following products are subject to recall:
AJC International, Inc. Recalls Frozen, Raw Pork Products
AJC International, Inc., the importer of record located in Atlanta, Ga., is recalling approximately 17,428 pounds of frozen, raw pork products that were not presented for import reinspection into the United States, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today.
The products subject to recall bear Canadian establishment number “391” inside the Canadian...
Hillshire Brands Company Recalls Smoked Sausage Products for Possible Foreign Matter Contamination
Hillshire Brands Company, a St. Joseph, Mo. establishment, is recalling approximately 15,876 pounds of blended meat and poultry smoked sausage products that may be contaminated with extraneous materials, specifically bone fragments, the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today.
The ready-to-eat blended meat and poultry smoked sausage items were produced on June 14, 2023.
Summer Promotion Builds Retail Demand for U.S. Pork in Central America, DR
Sales training kicked off a promotional campaign for U.S. pork this summer in Guatemala, Costa Rica, Panama and the Dominican Republic. During the three-month campaign, promotions for U.S. pork have been taking place at 27 retail outlets in the region.
USMEF provided marketing representatives to participating outlets for three days per week to raise awareness of U.S. pork and to educate consumers about the quality attributes that differentiate U.S. pork.
Prior to the campaign, each marketing representative was trained on the quality attributes of...
Cold Storage: End July Combined Meat/Poultry -0.9% on Month, -4.3% on Year
USDA monthly cold storage data released Wednesday afternoon showed combined meat and poultry stocks held in the nation's freezer warehouses at the end of July at 0.9% below the previous month and 4.3% under a year ago.
The combined stocks were down 5.7% from the five-year average of 2.314 billion pounds. Chicken and turkey stocks were up from a year ago. Beef and turkey were higher than the month prior.
POULTRY
Chicken stocks were reported at 847.6 million pounds, down 1.4% from the previous month and...
Three Brazilian Meat Processing Plants Given Approval to Ship to Dominican Republic
Earlier this month, Brazil’s Minister of Agriculture and Livestock announced that the Dominican Republic has allowed imports of pork and beef produced in Brazil.
Three Brazilian plants in the states of Acre, Santa Catarina, and Rio Grande do Sul were approved to ship to the Dominican Republic. Additional establishments in Rio Grande do Sul, Santa Catarina, and Paraná are also under consideration, announced Brazil's Ministry of Agriculture on August 9.
"The Dominican Republic is a market with high demand, which has faced severe challenges with the record of ...
Massachusetts Question 3 Enforcment Date Set and Stay Extended Regarding Transshipped Product
In August 2022, the Massachusetts Restaurant Association, along with additional plaintiffs, filed an Emergency Motion for Preliminary Injunction of Massachusetts’ Question 3 (Q3) in the United States District Court for District of Massachusetts, which resulted in a stay of enforcement of Q3 until after the Supreme Court of the United States ruled in a case involving California’s Proposition 12. The judge in the Massachusetts case signed a subsequent order extending the previously agreed upon stay until August 23, 2023. The judge has signed another order ending the stay...
Outstanding First Half for U.S. Pork Exports; Beef Exports Below Record Pace of 2022
U.S. pork exports concluded an excellent first half with another strong performance in June, according to data released by USDA and compiled by the U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF). While well below the record pace established in 2022, June beef exports topped $900 million in value, pushing first-half export value to nearly $5 billion.
June pork exports totaled 245,964 metric tons (mt), up 12% from a year ago, while export value climbed 6% to $691.4 million. Through the...
Nearly 400 Workers to be Impacted by Tyson's Corydon Plant Closure
Earlier this week, Tyson Foods, Inc., one of the world’s largest food companies, announced that it is closing four of its U.S. chicken plants located in Arkansas, Indiana, and Missouri. The closures are expected to take place in early 2024.
In a Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification Act (WARN) notice filed with the Indiana Department of Workforce Development on Monday, Tyson said that the closure of its Corydon chicken processing plant will impact about 368 team members.
The workers will be permanently terminated beginning on or about...
The Retail Rundown: Most Protein Indices Are Below Last Year
A breakdown of this week's retail buying opportunities shows that seafood features make up about 30% of total protein ad volume this week, while beef claims about 25%. Pork follows with 18.2%, down about two points from the week prior. Chicken features account for 16.1% of total protein ads, compared to 17.5% last year. Boosted by back-to-school buying, egg feature volume more than doubled from the week prior to 7.2%.
For this week's retail rundown, we'll take a look at how the various protein indices are performing in...
Agreement Made with Massachusetts AG in Pork Rule Litigation
Today, the Restaurant Law Center, four state restaurant associations, the National Pork Producers Council, and the Massachusetts Attorney General’s Office asked a federal judge to approve their settlement agreement in a federal lawsuit challenging the constitutionality of the Massachusetts Pork Rules. The agreement would end a lawsuit filed(Opens in a new window) by the Massachusetts Restaurant Association, HospitalityMaine, New Hampshire Lodging & Restaurant Association, Rhode Island Hospitality Association, the Restaurant Law Center, and the National Pork Producers Council that challenged enforcement guidelines and the underlying 2016 law defining the conditions under...
Urner Barry’s Market Briefing Provides Key Insights Across the Protein Trade
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.
Livestock Futures Swept Up in Broad Losses Following Fitch Downgrade
Earlier this week, Fitch Ratings downgraded the United States’ Long-Term Foreign-Currency Issuer Default Rating (IDR) to AA+ from AAA. This was the first time the U.S. received a downgrade from one of the three main rating agencies since 2011.
Fitch cited several drivers behind its decision, including “a steady deterioration in standards of governance over the last 20 years, including on fiscal and debt matters, notwithstanding the June bipartisan agreement to suspend the debt limit until January 2025.” The full report can be found here...
Japanese Restaurant Chain Switching to U.S. Pork Following Promotion
North Graphic, a growing regional foodservice chain in Sapporo, Japan, has decided to switch to U.S. pork at its six outlets following a successful two-month promotion. Specializing in Italian and Chinese cuisine, North Graphic developed new menu items as part of the promotion, including buta-kara (Japanese-style deep fried pork) utilizing U.S. pork loin and pork butt.
Prior to the promotion, the chain had used European pork at its restaurants.
North Graphic is also developing deli products with U.S...
Pilgrim’s Pride Reports Second Quarter 2023 Results with $4.3 Billion in Net Sales
Pilgrim’s Pride Corporation, one of the world's largest poultry producers, reports its second quarter 2023 financial results.
Second Quarter Highlights
Triumph Foods, Midwest Farmers Challenge Constitutionality of Massachusetts Question 3
Triumph Foods filed a lawsuit in Massachusetts federal district court challenging the constitutionality of the state law known as Question 3 (Q3) and, in turn, similar laws like it, including California’s Proposition 12 (Prop 12). Christensen Farms Midwest, LLC, The Hanor Company of Wisconsin, LLC, New Fashion Pork, LLP, and Eichelberger Farms, Inc., also joined the suit as plaintiffs, along with the Allied Producers’ Cooperative, a group of smaller Midwest farmers.
The lawsuit also seeks preliminary injunctive relief to stay the...
E B Express Provisions Recalls Canned Pork and Beef Bean Stew Products From Brazil
E B Express Provisions, a distributor and importer of record located in Newark, N.J. is recalling approximately 622 pounds of the pork and beef bean stew products that were imported from an establishment in Brazil that is not eligible to export meat products to the United States, U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today.
The following products are subject to recall, regardless of the product date :
More labels here.
Smithfield Foods' New $45 Million Wastewater System Improving Water Quality in Big Sioux River
Smithfield Foods has built a new state-of-the-art wastewater treatment system to replace a majority of the existing system at its pork-processing complex in Sioux Falls, South Dakota.
The new $45 million wastewater system adds additional treatment processes and capabilities to meet new and more stringent permit limits on nitrates and ammonia. The upgraded system biologically converts ammonia-nitrogen in wastewater to nitrate-nitrogen and further removes nitrate-nitrogen from wastewater, a...
Cold Storage: End June Combined Meat/Poultry +1.2% on Month, -1.8% on Year
USDA monthly cold storage data released Tuesday showed combined meat and poultry stocks held in the nation's freezer warehouses at the end of June at 2.201 billion pounds, up about 1.2% from the previous month but 1.8% less than a year ago.
Pork and beef were below the previous month while chicken and turkey stocks were larger. Chicken and turkey were above their year-ago figures while pork and beef were smaller. The combined stocks were 2.8% below the five-year average of 2.264 billion pounds...
Cater Your Summertime Gathering with Dickey’s Barbecue Pit
Dickey’s Barbecue Pit is offering barbecue lovers across the country multiple pack options to help beat the heat this summer.
Summertime is the season for picnics, pool parties and family reunions. Therefore, Dickey’s Packs are a great option for your gathering of any size. With a variety of pit-smoked meats and fan favorite sides to choose from, Texas-style barbecue fans can now order the following pack options:
Nuevo Garcia Foods, LLC Recalls Fully Cooked Pulled Pork Product
Nuevo Garcia Foods, LLC, a San Antonio, Texas establishment, is recalling approximately 4,784 pounds of pulled pork product due to misbranding and an undeclared allergen, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today. The product may contain soy lecithin, a known allergen, which is not declared on the product label.
The fully cooked, pulled pork product was produced on May 15, 2023. The following product is subject to recall:
U.S. Interstate Pork Commerce Faces Uncertain Future As States Implement New Restrictive Laws
On May 11, the Supreme Court of the United States (SCOTUS) upheld a lower court’s ruling to preserve California Proposition 12 (Prop 12), which prohibits the sale of pork not produced according to the state’s production standards. This means restaurants in California will now have to source pork that meets these standards.
California requires that all pork sold in the state must come from farms that house sows with at least 24 square feet each and ensure their ability to stand up and turn around in their...
Live Cattle Futures Make Fresh Highs Ahead of Key USDA Data
Live cattle futures visited uncharted waters once more on Thursday, hitting fresh highs ahead of key USDA data due out this afternoon. The August contract topped at $182.975 per cwt, $1.80 per cwt above its previous record high achieved last week.
Ultimately, cattle futures formed outside bearish reversals and closed lower across the board, pressured by profit-taking and overbought signals. Feeder cattle futures also visited higher territory yesterday before finishing weaker, with gains capped by the relentless rise in corn prices amid rising tension between Russia...
The Makers of the SPAM® Brand Unveil Sweet and Savory New Variety: SPAM® Maple Flavored
The makers of the SPAM® brand are today announcing the introduction of SPAM® maple flavored, bringing the brand's family of varieties to 11 flavors. With its delicious combination of sweet and savory, SPAM® maple flavored ushers in a unique and mouthwatering addition to breakfast menus, outdoor barbeques and one-of-a-kind desserts.
The makers of the SPAM® brand created the new maple-flavored variety following an outpouring of fan-developed maple recipes and...
Mulan Dumpling, LLC, Recalls Frozen Meat and Poultry Dumpling Products
Mulan Dumpling, LLC, a Hyattsville, Md. establishment, is recalling approximately 1,560 pounds of frozen meat and poultry dumpling 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.
Kevin McAdams Succeeds Randy Day as CEO of Perdue Farms
Perdue Farms announced today that Kevin McAdams, COO and President, will transition to the role of Chief Executive Officer, as part of a planned succession announced in April 2023. McAdams brings 30 years of successful leadership in the food and beverage industry to the vertically integrated food and agriculture company and fourth-largest producer of chicken products in the United States.
Randy Day, who held the CEO position since April 2017, will be staying on as an advisor to Perdue through 2024. “After 43 years with Perdue...
Massachusetts Question 3 Stay Extended to August 23
MassachusettsIn August 2022, the Massachusetts Restaurant Association, along with additional plaintiffs, filed an Emergency Motion for Preliminary Injunction of Massachusetts’ Question 3 (Q3) in the United States District Court for District of Massachusetts, which resulted in a stay of enforcement of Q3 until after the Supreme Court of the United States ruled in a case involving California’s Proposition 12. The judge in the Massachusetts case signed a subsequent order extending the previously agreed upon stay until August 23, 2023. Massachusetts has agreed to not enforce Question 3 as it relates to...
Firehouse Subs Brings Back its Pepperoni Pizza Meatball Sub for $6 When You Order on the App
It's back! Firehouse Subs® is celebrating the return of its guest favorite Pepperoni Pizza Meatball Sub, an epic mashup of pizza flavors all in one, hot and hearty sub. First launched in 2021, the popular limited time menu item features Italian meatballs, marinara, extra provolone, crispy pepperoni, and Italian seasoning on a toasted garlic bread roll.
Firehouse Subs Rewards Members can get a medium Pepperoni Pizza Meatball Sub for just $6* for a limited time when they purchase on...
May Pork Exports Highest in Two Years; Beef Exports Below Record-Large, Year-Ago Totals
Led by another outstanding month in Mexico and robust demand for variety meat, exports of U.S. pork continued to gain momentum in May, according to data released by USDA and compiled by USMEF. While well below the record-large volume and value posted in May 2022, beef exports improved from April and were the second largest (behind March) of 2023.
May pork exports reached 261,361 metric tons (mt), up 16% from a year ago, the ninth largest on record and the largest since May 2021...
Dickey’s Barbecue Pit Introduces New Sandwich with a Kick
Dickey’s Barbecue Pit is introducing a new savory sandwich to barbecue lovers across the country this summer.
The Kickin’ Comeback Pulled Pork Sandwich is the Texas-style barbecue brand’s latest “cue’ creation” and will be available to their guests beginning July 10th for a limited time only. This delicious new item is a throwback full of Dickey’s famous slow-smoked pulled pork, topped with creamy coleslaw, mixed with their kickin’ comeback sauce, and placed on a warm brioche bun.
“At Dickey’s Barbecue Pit we love offering our guests new and innovative...
The Retail Rundown: Navigating the Summer Doldrums
With July 4th behind us, the summer doldrums are beginning to settle in and major retail buying opportunities remain scarce until Labor Day. During this period, grocers will attempt to encourage protein sales with attractive promotions as summer grilling and other activities remain in play.
Beef saw robust protein feature volume throughout June and remains at the forefront of ad space with 27.3% of retail buying opportunities this week. Steaks currently take up about 65.4% of beef's feature volume, followed by ground beef with 18.2%. London Broil and roasts follow, each with about...
U.S. Red Meat Industry Makes Presence Known at SIAL China
An eye-catching location and expanded pavilion with spacious public reception areas, private meeting spaces, meat sample displays and a separate cooking area for product tastings were among the pieces in place to ensure a prominent presence for the U.S. red meat industry at SIAL China in Shanghai. Twelve members joined the USMEF Pavilion at the show, which hosted 175,527 attendees from 67 countries during the three-day event.
These elements were part of a blueprint designed to tout grain-fed U.S. beef and pork as top quality and show...
Panamerican Foods, LLC Recalls Ineligible Pork and Beef Bean Stew Products Imported from Brazil
Panamerican Foods, LLC, a distributor and importer of record located in Kearny, N.J., is recalling approximately 4,978 pounds of the pork and beef bean stew products that were imported from an establishment in Brazil that is not eligible to export meat products to the United States, U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today.
The products subject to recall bear establishment number “76 S.I.F.” on the...
Denny's Unlocks Unprecedented Value with Launch of Gamified Rewards Program
Denny's , America's Diner, has launched its revamped Denny's Rewards program, providing guests valuable monthly offers and introducing personalized challenges that unlock never-before-seen rewards. Once members join at Dennys.com or with the Denny's App, their digital wallet will hold offers, fun challenges, and keep track of rewards so they can easily redeem them for the Denny's flavors they crave.
"Denny's provides an incredible bang for your buck, and now our rewards challenges take value to a whole new level," said John Dillon, Denny's President. "At a time when...
NPB Introduces The Real Pork Trust Consortium
Universities Combine Expertise to Build Trust between Pork Producers and Pork Consumers
The National Pork Board recently announced a new five-year effort focused on addressing consumer questions related to the pork industry’s We Care® Ethical Principles and strengthening consumers’ confidence in choosing pork for their plate.
The Real Pork Trust Consortium brings together the diverse expertise of five universities and will focus on three key areas to build consumer trust: 1) research designed to answer consumer questions about pork and pork production, 2) communications that share the research findings in a...
The Retail Rundown: Which Proteins Dominate Holiday Features?
Leading up to the Fourth of July holiday, seafood and pork feature volume dominate retail buying opportunities. Seafood features account for 28.5% of total protein features while pork comes in with 26.7%. Beef falls to third with 25.3%, followed by chicken with 17.1%.
According to the National Retail Federation's annual Independence Day survey, 87% of consumers plan to celebrate the Fourth of July this year and spend an average of $93.34 on food items. Total spending is expected to reach a record $9.5 billion, up from $7.7 billion in 2022. Of those celebrating, 65%...
Hog Report Expected to Show 0.7% Decrease in Total Herd vs Year Prior
The USDA’s quarterly hogs and pigs report, scheduled for release Thursday afternoon, is expected to show a decrease in the U.S. swine herd versus June 2022.
Analysts on average predict the all hogs and pigs number as of June 1 to be down 0.7% from a year ago.
The average of the estimates for all hogs and pigs would project 72.016 million head, compared with 72.524 million a year ago.
The survey showed on average the number of females kept for breeding at 0.7% below a year ago...
North American Meat Instutute: Update on California Proposition 12
Yesterday, the judge in the Superior Court of California for Sacramento County presiding over litigation regarding enforcement of Proposition 12 amended a previous order and effectively extended the enforcement date until December 31, 2023, for “noncompliant” whole pork meat in inventory as of July 1, 2023.[1] Meat from noncompliant hogs slaughtered before July 1 can be sold into California and designated as “compliant.” Companies should maintain documentation showing products are from hogs slaughtered prior to July 1. Importantly, unless one of the exemptions applies, this extension does not allow sales...
NPPC Statement on California Proposition 12 Implementation Modification
“It is welcome news to America’s pig farmers and consumers that California recognized the challenging situation the July 1 Proposition 12 implementation date will have on our industry and food supply. Granting six months of additional relief for products in the supply chain allows grocery stores to remain stocked so the 40 million Californians have uninterrupted access to affordable, safe and nutritious pork products, especially with rising food prices.
“We appreciate Governor Newsom, Attorney General Bonta, and the California Department of Food and...
Denny's Baconalia Menu Returns to America's Diner Nationwide After 10-Year Hiatus
Calling all bacon lovers! Denny's is ready to satisfy your cravings for crispy strips, answer your pleas for the ultimate pork, and feed your bacon obsession with the triumphant return of its Baconalia menu. Returning to all Denny's locations after a 10-year hiatus, this limited-time menu features seven craveable bacon-centric creations, making this the biggest and best Baconalia yet.
From June 21 through August 29, fans can feast on mouth-watering dishes such as Premium Bacon Loaded Pancakes™, the Triple Bacon Sampler...
Pre-Report Estimates for May Cold Storage Show Total Stocks 1.7% Below Year Ago
USDA will release its monthly cold storage report at 3 p.m. Eastern time Friday. Bob Brown, a private analyst from Edmond, Oklahoma, provided his insight on what the upcoming report might show.
Frozen total meat and poultry stocks as of May 31st are projected to be down 2.2% from the previous month. Overall supplies remain below year-ago levels. Brown predicts total meat and poultry stocks to be about 2.163 billion pounds.
Beef, pork, and chicken stocks are expected to be down versus the previous month...
Producers Can Now Go "Whole Hog" on New Heat Stress App for Pigs
HotHog, a new smartphone application that predicts heat stress in pigs, is now available for download and use, a team of Agricultural Research Service (ARS) and university scientists announced today.
Available in the Apple App Store and Google Play Store, HotHog taps into local weather data to predict the relative comfort or heat stress levels of pigs on an hourly, daily or weekly basis. Swine producers can then use this information to take pre-emptive measures, like ensuring plenty of drinking water, cooling the pigs with fans...
ANALYSIS: Seasonal Variables in Pork: What’s Happening in mid-June?
Heading into summertime this year there were many questions in the pork market. Would we see the seasonal demand we have become accustomed to seeing? If so, what would the surplus of pork do to the market?
Over the last 4 weeks, production figures have been below the same week a year ago. Weights and slaughter figures have dropped off consistently week-over-week since early May, and this has definitely tightened up fresh supplies. The total frozen pork stock remains at a 52-week high, but this factor has ...
Cattle Complex Slips at Midweek While Hogs Rally on Firmer Cash
The cattle complex on the Chicago Mercantile Exchange tumbled at midweek, sending August live cattle sliding to a nearly two-week floor. Feeder futures led the declines, with losses for the August through November contracts ranging from $4.05 to $4.55 per cwt despite weaker corn prices at the closing bell for livestock futures.
Grain futures are up sharply so far Thursday as traders monitor dry conditions in the nation's major crop-producing regions. Corn futures are up by about 9 to 10 cents and soybeans are showing...
NAMI Hosts Prop 12 Webinar With California Department of Food and Agriculture
On Monday, the North American Meat Institute (NAMI) along with the California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) hosted a webinar exploring enforcement, documentation, and transition ahead of Proposition 12, which is set to go into effect July 1.
Speakers included Dr. Elizabeth Cox, who currently leads the Animal Care Program for the California Department of Food and Agriculture, and Dr. Anette Jones, Director of the Animal Health and Food Safety Services at CDFA.
Proposition 12 is a California law first approved by California voters...
Panera Expands Toasted Baguette Sandwich Offerings with New Black Forest Ham & Gouda Melt
Today, Panera announces the addition of a new chef-curated recipe to its popular line of Toasted Baguette sandwiches: the Black Forest Ham & Gouda Melt. Panera's line of Toasted Baguettes, launched this January, has quickly become its top earning sandwich and so Panera's chefs have unveiled a new creation featuring Black Forest Ham, Panera's new country mustard, arugula and smoked gouda on a toasted baguette. MyPanera members nationwide will have the opportunity to be the first to try the new Black Forest Ham & Gouda Melt, through...
Broad-Based Growth for April Pork Exports; Beef Exports Trend Lower
April exports of U.S. pork achieved gains in a wide range of markets, according to data released by USDA and compiled by USMEF, while beef exports were below the very large totals posted a year ago.
Propelled by another month of widespread growth, April pork exports totaled 243,789 metric tons (mt), up 15% from a year ago, while value increased 10% to $660.1 million. For January through April, pork exports climbed 14% to 960,480 mt, valued at $2.62 billion (up 13%)...
NPB Welcomes Four New Officers for 2023-2024 Term
The National Pork Board (NPB) elected four new officers for the 2023-2024 term beginning July 1.
NPB’s 15-producer board of directors represent the 60,000 U.S. pig farmers who pay into the Pork Checkoff – a program funding research, promotion and education efforts for the benefit of the whole industry. The board allocates Pork Checkoff funds to address producer priorities, outlined in the producer-led annual planning process, to build trust and add value for U.S. pork and pork products.
Newly Elected NPB President Expresses Commitment to Pork Producers...
Live Cattle and Feeder Futures Snap Streak of Higher Closes
After scoring fresh contract highs again at midweek, live cattle futures finished sharply lower Wednesday, snapping their nine-day streak of firmer closes.
The June live cattle contract closed 82.5 cents lower at $179.00 per cwt but remains overbought. The deferred contracts formed outside bearish reversals.
Feeder futures also scored new highs yesterday before nosediving, sending most actively traded August to a nearly one-week floor. The front-month finished $4.15 lower at $239.10 per cwt while September was down $4.25 to $242.275 per cwt...
ANALYSIS: A Suprising Season: Unraveling the Dynamics of the 2023 Pork Belly Market
As an industry, we have become accustomed to seeing a volatile pork belly market, especially during the warm weather months. However, this year we are seeing anything but that. Heavy skinless bellies have traded in a narrow range of only 6.7% from its highest weekly price average to its lowest weekly price average since the first week of April. This competes with 29.2% in...
The Retail Rundown: Attractive Pork Features Could Entice Consumers This Summer
Competitive retail pork prices this summer could entice more consumers to favor pork over other proteins, especially as beef production continues to decline due to tightening cattle supplies.
Retailers are still aggressively promoting beef, which make up 29.9% of total retail buying opportunities. Seafood closely follows with 28.7%, while pork ranks third at 21.3%. Chicken has 14.4% of total ad space, down about 3% from the week prior.
Within pork, brand-label bacon features make up the majority of features this week. According to the latest Circana data for...
DEKA Trading Corp. Recalls Ineligible Ready-To-Eat Pork Rind Products Imported from Guatemala
DEKA Trading Corp., the importer of record located in Miami, Fla., is recalling approximately 13,771 pounds of imported ready-to-eat pork rind products. The products were imported from Guatemala, a country ineligible to export meat products to the United States, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today.
The following products are subject to recall, regardless of the product date:
- 5.3 oz. (150g) foil pouch packages containing “TorTrix Con Chicharrón...
Lean Hog Futures Boosted by Deeply Oversold Signals
Following steep declines to fresh contract lows in recent sessions, lean hog futures on the Chicago Mercantile Exchange (CME) closed sharply higher on Tuesday.
The June through August contracts locked in limit gains at the close and reversed Friday's declines, aided in part by deeply oversold signals. June closed at $80.825 while most-actively traded July settled at $79.525.
Hog futures may have been due for a technical correction after being overdone to the downside, said livestock dealers and market managers.
On the year so far, the nearby hog contract...
Jumping on June's Next Retail Occasion
Now that June is within reach, grocers are preparing for the next major grilling event—Father's Day, which is just over two weeks away.
Consumers often seek out premium cuts of meat like steaks for Father's Day as opposed to lower-cost options such as burgers, which are typically favored to feed large gatherings during Memorial Day.
This could provide a needed boost for the steak complex, which saw a slowdown in total sales dollars last week. According to the latest Circana data, fresh beef loin retailed at $13.54 discounted (up 39 cents from last week)...
Olymel Shutters Hog Production Facilities in Western Canada Due to Financial Losses
Olymel continues to consolidate its hog operations due to steep financial losses and overall uncertainty in the hog and pork markets. On Friday, the company announced the closure of its hog production facilities in Alberta and Saskatchewan, both located in Western Canada.
The latest decision will impact about 80 employees and will result in the closure of five sow units in Alberta along with one sow unit in Saskatchewan.
This reduces Olymel's western sow herd from 57,000 to 40,000 sows in production and will result in a net...
USMEF Conference Examines Industry Challenges, Opportunities for U.S. Market Share Gains
The USMEF Spring Conference got underway May 24 in Minneapolis, with USMEF senior staff updating members on industry efforts to expand the international footprint for U.S. red meat and bolster demand for underutilized pork, beef and lamb cuts.
Minnesota Agriculture Commissioner Thom Petersen welcomed a strong turnout of producers, exporters, packers, processors and traders from across the nation, praising their collaborative efforts to advance U.S. agriculture by building global demand.
“I really wasn’t a ‘feed-the-world’ type of person when I started as commissioner,” Petersen said. “But as...
Olli Salumeria Introduces North America's First Preservative-Free Salami
One of Italy's most iconic and traditional foods is entering a completely new chapter as California-based Olli Salumeria officially launches the first preservative-free salami in the North American market.
This week, Olli Salumeria announces its revolutionary new curing process and formula that eliminates all added nitrates and nitrites, producing salami that is effectively free of all preservatives, without compromise to taste or texture.
Most modern salami has added nitrates and nitrites, either as a synthetic or through natural sources such as cultured celery juice...
Meat Institute Partners with IT-ISAC to Improve Cybersecurity with New Food & Ag ISAC
The North American Meat Institute today announced a new partnership with the Information Technology-Information Sharing and Analysis Center (IT-ISAC) on the launch of a Food and Agriculture ISAC to enhance cybersecurity for the meat and poultry industry.
“We are grateful for the leadership of several of our members who helped found the Food and Agriculture ISAC to better prepare the industry to fight against the increasing threat of cyber attacks on our nation’s critical food infrastructure,” said...
ANALYSIS: Beef 50s Maintain Huge Premium Over Pork 42s
Throughout most of this year so far, fresh beef 50s have maintained a huge premium over fresh pork 42s. As of Monday afternoon, Urner Barry's fresh beef 50s quotation was $1.86 per pound, compared to 50 cents per pound for fresh pork 42s.
In 2023 so far, beef 50s have advanced by nearly 92% and eclipsed $2 per pound earlier this month. Over the same period, pork 42s lost about 13%. From a historical standpoint, beef 50s currently reside at near seasonal all-time highs, second only to 2017...
Protein PACT Academic Advisory Council Launched
The North American Meat Institute today announced the launch of the Protein PACT Academic Advisory Council, formed to advise on research priorities and the latest evidence related to meat production and consumption.
The seven members of the advisory council are renowned independent researchers from the United States’ top universities, with expertise encompassing environmental sustainability, human nutrition and development, combating hunger, and more.
Advisory Council members are:
Kindness Takes the Lead: Sonny's BBQ Appoints Tara Boyle as Chief Kindness Officer
Sonny's BBQ, the industry-leading BBQ restaurant rooted in quality food and spreading kindness, today announced Tara Boyle as Chief Kindness Officer (CKO). Boyle will step into the role as the brand's second CKO, following the three-year tenure of Kennon Adkinson. As CKO, Boyle will support the evolution of initiatives under 'Q The Kindness, oversee the brand's Kindness Crew and develop monthly activities to reach Sonny's communities.
"Today's announcement marks a major milestone in our commitment to kindness and the endless potential of doing more in...
Tyson Foods Completes Acquisition of Williams Sausage Company
Today, Tyson Foods, Inc. completed the previously announced acquisition of Williams Sausage Company, Inc. of Union City, Tenn., furthering the company’s strategy to increase its capacity and product portfolio. To ensure the continuity of business operations, Emily Billingsley, Roger Williams’ daughter, will be responsible for the company’s operations.
“This acquisition aligns with our strategy to win with customers, augments our manufacturing capabilities, and expands our product portfolio,” said Stewart Glendinning, group president, Prepared Foods for Tyson Foods. “Williams Sausage Company brings real strengths in its brand, facilities, and direct store delivery network...
Sofina Foods Inc. Recalls Ready-To-Eat Mortadella Deli Meat Products
Sofina Foods Inc., a Markham, Ontario, Canada establishment, is recalling approximately 15,165 pounds of ready-to-eat mortadella deli meat products due to misbranding and undeclared allergen, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today. The product may contain pistachio (tree nuts), a known allergen, which is not declared on the product label.
The ready-to-eat mortadella deli meat products were produced on March 27, 2023, March 30, 2023, and April 4, 2023. The following products are subject to recall...
Analysis: Memorial Day 2023: Will Rising Pork Supplies Hamper Holiday Feasts?
Memorial Day is one of the major pork holidays each and every year. Ribs, bacon, and butts are all darlings of this popular weekend that officially kicks off summertime.
However, this year is different compared to the past few years amid economic uncertainty, ample supplies of pork throughout the US, and demand that can be classified as moderate at best. While consumers will surely be out and about this year, pork may not see the same performance the industry has become accustomed to.
The current demand for bellies...
Del Taco Brings Back Popular Shedded Pork Carnitas for a Limited Time
Del Taco, the nation’s second-largest Mexican quick-service restaurant*, today announced the return of fan-favorite Carnitas for a limited time. To celebrate, Del Taco is giving their Del Yeah!™ Rewards members early access to their Carnitas menu items on Wednesday, May 17, offering 30% OFF any Carnitas item for the day**. Plus, FREE Delivery on everything through Sunday, June 11***. Del Taco's slow-braised, shredded pork Carnitas are now available to order in popular menu items including the Stuffed Quesadilla Taco...
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