This Week in Retail: Beef Ads Lag Leading Up to Memorial Day

The Memorial Day holiday is just one weekend away and grocers are gearing up for the unofficial start to the summer grilling season.

This major retail occasion typically drives sales from the meat case, with items like burgers and hot dogs stealing the spotlight.

Beef features account for 28% of total protein ad volume this week, up slightly from the previous week. Pork and seafood are tied for second with 25%. Chicken claims 16%, even with the week prior. 

While beef holds the top spot in retail buying opportunities, market participants have reported lackluster beef features for this time of year. May is typically the strongest period of the year for beef demand...

While beef holds the top spot in buying opportunities, market participants have noted lackluster beef features for this time of year. May is typically the strongest period of the year for beef demand...

This Week in Retail: Protein Demand and Rising Food Inflation

Fueled by rising food inflation, consumers nationwide continue to see higher prices for protein along with other goods, both at retail and foodservice. 

The Consumer Price Index (CPI) rose 8.3% in April, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics—down slightly from the month prior. However, the latest figure was still near a 40-year high and slightly above what some analysts had anticipated. 

The food index increased 0.9% last month, its seventeenth consecutive monthly increase. 

Five of the six major grocery store food group indexes increased in April. The fruits and vegetable category was the only index that declined last month. The index for meats, poultry, fish, and eggs rose 1.4% in April, driven by a 10.3% increase in the egg index...

Beef Export Value Sets Another Record; Pork Exports Improve but Remain Below Last Year’s Total

U.S. beef exports soared to another new value record in March, according to data released by USDA and compiled by the U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF). March pork exports were the largest so far this year but well below the record-large totals posted in March 2021. Lamb exports continued to gain momentum in March, reaching the third largest monthly volume on record and the highest value in nearly eight years.

Beef exports totaled 126,285 metric tons (mt) in March, up 1% from a...

Global Demand for U.S. Beef Continues to Soar; Pork Exports Below Last Year

U.S. beef exports posted another strong performance in February, according to data released by USDA and compiled by the U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF), led by excellent value growth in key Asian and Latin American markets. Pork exports trended lower year-over-year, as larger shipments to Mexico and Japan did not offset the continued decline in demand from China/Hong Kong. Lamb exports continued to gain momentum, reaching the highest monthly value since 2014.

“Rarely have we seen so many outside forces creating headwinds for..."

Pork Producers Press Politicians on Public Policies

Preparing for and preventing foreign animal diseases, addressing an agricultural labor shortage, and increasing pork exports are the top public-policy issues pork producers will lobby their congressional lawmakers on over the next two days. During the spring Capitol Hill fly-in of the National Pork Producers Council (NPPC), nearly 100 producers from across the country are expected to participate — in person for the first time in two years — in NPPC’s Legislative Action Conference.

“Challenges facing our industry continue to evolve, and we hope our efforts this week help lawmakers understand..."

Pork Industry Priorities Included in Spending Bill

Congress in early March approved a $1.5 trillion fiscal 2022 budget bill, which keeps government programs running through Sept. 30 and has $730 billion for non-defense spending, including $25.1 billion for agricultural programs, mostly for USDA, with significant amounts dedicated to addressing foreign animal diseases (FADs).

Thanks to the advocacy efforts of NPPC — literally hounding lawmakers about appropriating adequate funds to prevent, prepare for and respond to FADs and arguing for other priorities — Congress listened, giving the pork industry almost everything it requested.

It’s been a difficult Congress to...

Supreme Court to Hear NPPC Case Against Prop 12

The U.S. Supreme Court at its Mar. 25 conference agreed to hear a case brought by the National Pork Producers Council and the American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF) against California’s Proposition 12, which bans the sale of pork from hogs born to sows that weren’t raised according to the state’s “arbitrary” production standards.

“We are extremely pleased that the Supreme Court will consider the constitutionality of Proposition 12, in which California seeks to impose regulations targeting farming practices outside its borders that would stifle interstate and international commerce..." 

This Week in Retail: Steak Features See Boost from Warmer Weather; Eyeing HPAI

Sunday marked the official start of spring. For retailers, that means grilling season is rapidly approaching, and with it—the opportunity for increased meat sales.

Steak features surged this week, accounting for 50.5 percent of total beef ads—up 16 percentage points from the week prior. Feature volume for roasts, meanwhile, has decreased, falling from 38.2 percent last week to 23.2 percent this week.

This week in retail, the steak complex averages $8.12 per pound, up 12.8 percent from a year ago. Boneless strip steaks are widely featured at grocery outlets across the nation and average $11.68 per pound, up 36 percent from a year ago. Top sirloin steaks are up 3.3 percent YoY at $5.64 per pound while bottom round steaks clock in at $5.54 per pound, up a whopping 68.4 percent from this week last year...

ANALYSIS: A Look At The Recent Volatility In The Belly Market

Volatility in the belly market is not uncommon, but the prices we witnessed in February and now in March would be considered extremely elevated, even for spring and summer. Both skin-on and skinless bellies reached, and are currently sitting at, seasonal all-time highs for the last 2 weeks of February and the first 2 weeks of March. For this analysis, we will take a look at 11-13 skinless bellies...

Spot Market Hog Pandemic Program Eligibility Broadened

USDA’s Farm Service Agency (FSA) today announced it has modified the Spot Market Hog Pandemic Program (SMHPP) eligibility requirements to capture more hog sales. The program — announced last year — provides payments to pork producers who made spot market transactions between April 16 and Sept. 1, 2020.

The clarified eligibility requirements expand the agency’s interpretation of “spot market sales” and “sale to a packer” to better reflect the nontraditional types of transactions made during that period, including sales to dealers, cull markets, meat lockers, intermediaries and others.

“The changes to SMHPP..."

CBP Officers Seize 124 Pounds of Prohibited Fresh Pork, Poultry Meat at Laredo Port of Entry

U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers, agriculture specialists at Laredo Port of Entry in a single enforcement action seized over 120 pounds of prohibited fresh pork and poultry meat.

“This significant prohibited meat seizure exemplifies the importance of CBP’s agriculture mission in preventing the spread of potential animal diseases that could risk public safety and inflict harm on our nation’s agricultural economy,” said Port Director Alberto Flores, Laredo Port of Entry.

The interception occurred on Tuesday, March 15 when a white minivan...

Strong Momentum Continues for U.S. Beef Exports; Pork Exports Trend Lower

Coming off a record-breaking performance in 2021, U.S. beef exports remained red-hot in January, according to data released by USDA and compiled by the U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF). Pork exports continued to trend lower in January, despite another outstanding month for exports to leading market Mexico.

Beef exports totaled 119,066 metric tons (mt), up 13% from a year ago, while value soared 57% to $1.03 billion. This was the third-highest value total on record – trailing only August and November of last year – and export...

Dierks Inducted into Pork Industry Hall of Fame

For his 40 years serving U.S. pork producers, including 20 years as CEO of the National Pork Producers Council (NPPC) and his dedication and countless contributions to the pork industry, Neil Dierks today was inducted into the National Pork Industry Hall of Fame at NPPC’s annual business meeting — the National Pork Industry Forum — held here.

Dierks, who retired in December 2021 after 31 years with NPPC, helped develop the organization that was born after the separation agreement that created the National Pork Board. He became the first CEO of the reconstituted NPPC...

NPB’s Mission to Make Pork a Leading, Sustainable Protein Choice

The 2022 U.S. Pork Industry Sustainability Report establishes the We Care® Ethical Principles as tools to measure on-farm sustainability efforts.

National Pork Board released its official U.S. Pork Industry Sustainability Report as a part of its continuous efforts to produce a leading, sustainable protein choice.

NPB announced the action-based and producer-developed goals and metrics in a Checkoff-funded producer webinar last month, in partnership with AgriPulse. Experts spoke about how the goals align with the six We Care® Ethical Principles, how producers can measure their...

Forseth New NPPC Director of Animal Health

The National Pork Producers Council has hired Dr. Anna Forseth for the newly created position of director of animal health. She will focus on foreign animal disease prevention and preparedness, as well as antibiotic use and resistance issues.

“We welcome Dr. Forseth to the NPPC team,” said NPPC CEO Bryan Humphreys. “She has a wealth of knowledge about hogs and swine diseases and a great background in swine research. We know she will be a great asset to and resource for the U.S. pork industry.”

A Montana native who grew...

Carando® Brings Robust Flavor to the Dinner Table with its New Sweet Italian Sausage

Carando®, the artisan of Classic Italian Meats, is expanding its offerings with the launch of Sweet Italian Sausage. Using Carando's time-honored recipe, the new dinner links are prepared with 100% pork and blended with Italian herbs and spices to deliver a complex, robust, and authentic taste.

Convenient and easy-to-prepare, Carando's flavor-packed Sweet Italian Sausage helps turn a weeknight dinner with family or a weekend gathering with friends into an unforgettable dining experience. The links pair perfectly and effortlessly with a...

Analysis: Experts Discuss U.S. Pork Export Data and NPB Diversification Strategy

NPB hosted a webinar following the report release to help pork producers understand the publicly available information.

The National Pork Board hosted a webinar on February 11 where experts spoke on the 2021 year-end U.S. pork export data, NPB’s international marketing strategy and their estimates for 2022 forecasting.

On February 8, USDA released the year-end export data. In 2021, U.S. pork exports set a new value record topping $8 billion for the first time. Export volume was down 2% from the 2020 record...

This Week in Retail: Farewell February; What's Next?

Wrapping up the final full week of February, wintry weather is in full force as back-to-back storms rip through the Eastern two-thirds of the country. Amidst the havoc, retailers are eagerly looking towards spring demand, which is boosted by seasonal influences including more favorable grilling conditions and holidays like Easter.

Retail protein sales are typically sluggish in February, leaving much to be desired among grocers. However, consumer retail demand for meat has remained strong so far this year despite a normal seasonal lull and higher prices for most items. In the near term, grocers will begin to shift their retail features from red meat and poultry towards seafood as Lenten observers begin a 40-day period of fasting and reduced meat consumption starting on March 2^nd.

The seafood complex accounts for 27% of total protein features this week. Beef makes up 26.5% of feature volume, while pork closes in on 21%. Chicken claims almost 13% of ad space, followed by eggs...

NPB Announces Pork Industry Sustainability Goals and Metrics, Releases First Official Report

More than half of U.S. consumers have made some modest changes in their purchasing decisions to be more sustainable, according to the Global Sustainability Study 2021.1

Today, the National Pork Board (NPB) shared more about its industry’s aspiration to produce a leading sustainable protein choice, with an announcement of goals and metrics and its first official U.S. Pork Industry Sustainability Report.

Sustainability Goals Developed By Pork Producers
The goals and report are part of the NPB’s sustainability efforts, which are led by producers and funded by their...

This Week in Retail: A Look at Protein Indices So Far in 2022

A common thread currently uniting the retail landscape for most proteins is inflationary pressure prompted in part by strong demand, persistent snags in the supply chain, tight supplies, and increased production costs. At present, Urner Barry’s beef, pork, and chicken retail feature indices are positioned at seasonal all-time highs.

Kicking off 2022, Urner Barry’s Weekly Retail Feature Beef Index displayed a contra-seasonal price movement relative to historical norms. The index normally sees a decline from early to mid-January. However, the beef index this year increased by 4.5% from January 3 through January 17 to $6.92 per pound, an all-time high for that week in history. The weekly index has been well above the 5-year average so far this year...

ANALYSIS: What Caused The Recent Surge In Pork Loin Prices?

Amid the recent surge of bone-in loin prices it is a great time to dig into the details of why this has happened. When the Omicron Variant became a powerful force in the fall and winter of 2021, many consumers opted to stay home and cook more often than choosing food service, which resulted in a spike in retail demand...

2021 Beef Exports Shatter Previous Records; Pork Export Value Also Reaches New High

U.S. beef exports greatly exceeded previous volume and value records in 2021, surpassing $10 billion for the first time, according to year-end data released by USDA and compiled by the U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF). Pork exports finished slightly below the record volume reached in 2020 but set a new value record, topping $8 billion for the first time.

December beef exports totaled 121,429 metric tons (mt), up 1% from a year ago, while value climbed 33% to $991.8 million – the third largest...

This Week in Retail: Wing Prices Take Flight Ahead of Super Bowl

Seafood feature volume advanced to 28% this week, taking the top spot across proteins in retail buying opportunities. Beef closely follows with 27%, while pork and chicken features claim 18% and 10%, respectively, of ad space. Egg features climbed to 13%, up from 7% the week prior.

At the seafood counter, catfish, cod, and tilapia fillets average $6.55 per pound, nearly 13% above year-ago levels. Cooked shrimp features are roughly 90 cents higher than a year ago, averaging $8.49 per pound. Raw shrimp is featured at $7.57 on average for various counts, down 8.4% from this time last year.

In the retail beef complex, 80% lean ground beef averages $3.49 per pound, up 7% from a year ago but lower than both boneless skinless chicken breasts and chicken tenders. The steak and roast complexes continue to maintain hefty premiums to year-ago levels. Steaks average $8.47 per pound, up from $7.19 per pound in 2021. Roasts are featured at $6.06 per pound on average, a nearly 34% YoY increase...

NPB Announces New Staff Leadership Positions

The National Pork Board (NPB) today announced recent staff leadership changes to help ensure its ability to deliver on pork producer priorities for their Checkoff: to build trust in, and add value to, U.S. pork while also protecting the industry’s freedom to operate.

Dustin (Dusty) Oedekoven, DVM, will join NPB as the organization’s new chief veterinarian on Feb. 25, 2022. Dr. Oedekoven will lead a team of veterinarians and swine production experts in Pork Checkoff-funded work to deliver on the No. 1 concern for pork producers – foreign animal disease (FAD) preparedness and protecting...

Higher Wages, Input Costs, Supply Chain Problems Affecting Pork Prices, Not 'Concentration'

In a report issued today, economists with Iowa State University, North Carolina State University and the National Pork Producers Council found that pork prices have risen because of strong demand for U.S. pork, higher input costs and labor shortages throughout the supply chain, not concentration in the meatpacking industry. The report’s authors, Iowa State’s Dermot Hayes, NC State’s Barry Goodwin and NPPC’s Holly Cook, also found that pork prices in the United States are still lower than in many other countries.

The pork packing industry is made...

This Week in Retail: Wintry Weather Boosts Protein Sales

While major buying occasions are sparse in January, wintry weather helps support sales at the meat case this month as consumers stock up on protein for hearty, comfort food recipes.  At present, the National Weather Service is calling for significant winter weather in the Southern and Eastern U.S.

Buying opportunities for seafood and beef have dominated the protein complex so far this year. Seafood narrowly beats out beef for first in buying opportunities this week, claiming 28% of total ad volume. Beef accounts for 26%. 

Retail feature prices for most beef roast cuts—popular with cold-weather cooking—are higher than year-ago levels. Bottom round averages $4.98 per pound, a 15% YoY increase. 80% lean ground beef is up $1.04 per pound, or 37.4%, from last year at $3.82 per pound on average.  

Pork makes up 24% of total ad volume this week. Hams are featured at competitive price points since retailers are looking to clear out excess inventory after the holidays...

Nigeria Opens Market to Some U.S. Pork

The United States now can export sausage and similar products to Nigeria, which yesterday announced it is partially opening its market to U.S. pork. The National Pork Producers Council welcomed the move by the West African nation.

“Nigeria has the largest GDP of any African country, with a population of just over 211 million, we are excited to be the first U.S. protein to be allowed access to the Nigerian market,” said NPPC President Jen Sorenson. “NPPC thanks the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the government of the Federal Republic of Nigeria for..."

Sahlen's® Grilled For You® Pork & Beef Smokehouse Hot Dogs Now Available for Foodservice Operators

Sahlen Packing Co., a family-owned and operated food production company founded in Buffalo, New York, in 1869, announces the launch of Sahlen's® Grilled For You® Pork & Beef Smokehouse Hot Dogs.

Sahlen leverages cutting-edge food manufacturing capabilities to provide foodservice operators, retailers, and consumers with a Smokehouse Hot Dog that comes pre-grilled with real char marks and authentic grill flavor — no grill required. The innovative product provides retailers and foodservice operators at restaurants, resorts, recreation, arenas, stadiums, carts, stands, and...

North American Meat Institute Applauds Agreement Opening India’s Market to U.S. Pork Imports

The North American Meat Institute (Meat Institute) welcomed India’s decision to allow imports of U.S. pork and pork products into the country and thanked the Biden Administration for working to secure increased access for high-quality U.S. meat products to this growing and strategically important export market.

“U.S. pork producers, processors and packers are going to benefit from the expanded market access that this agreement will bring,” said Meat Institute President and CEO Julie Anna Potts. “The Meat Institute is grateful to USDA and USTR for..."

India to Open Market for U.S. Pork

The National Pork Producers Council (NPPC) today applauded the U.S. and Indian government’s announcement to allow imports of U.S. pork and pork products into India, the world’s second-most populous nation.

“After decades of work, a market that had been closed to U.S. pork is being opened,” said NPPC President Jen Sorenson. “NPPC thanks the Biden administration for reaching an agreement with India on market access for our products. We look forward to the new access, which will allow us to provide affordable, wholesome and nutritious U.S. pork products to consumers in India...”

Holy Grail Steak Co. Launches Burger Subscription Service

Holy Grail Steak Co. today introduces Burger Lab, a subscription service that delivers a variety of the highest quality burger patties right to your doorstep.

When you join Burger Lab, you will receive two types of burgers from Holy Grail's exclusive beef and pork collections every three months. Each box includes a total of twelve 8 oz burger patties (six of each type) and recipe cards for inspiration. From Wagyu and Mangalitsa pork to Santa Carota carrot-finished burgers and proprietary blends, this is the perfect way to taste your way through...

November Beef Exports Set New Value Record; Pork Exports Remain Strong

U.S. beef export value reached another new high in November, topping $1 billion for the second time in 2021, according to data released by USDA and compiled by the U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF). November pork exports were lower than a year ago, but year-to-date export value maintained a record pace at more than $7.5 billion.

November beef exports totaled 123,641 metric tons (mt), up 7% from a year ago and the fourth largest monthly volume in the post-BSE era. Export value was...

This Week in Retail: Eyeing Prop 12, Pandemic Uncertainty in 2022

Rounding out the first week of 2022, uncertainty surrounding the ongoing pandemic continues to impact businesses and the overall wellbeing of the world’s population.

Retailers, along with other participants throughout the supply chain, are monitoring labor constraints, made worse by the rapid spread of the Omicron variant. Prolonged disruptions to the production, further processing, and distribution of consumer goods from worker absenteeism and potential further government restrictions remain key concerns for producers and buyers alike in the New Year.

Meanwhile, the second phase of California’s Proposition 12 went into effect on January 1. Under the law, veal calf producers are required to provide their animals with at least 43 square feet of usable floor space per calf. Sows must have a minimum of 24 square feet of usable space per animal. Laying hens are required to be cage-free. Proposition 12 prohibits the sale in California of veal, pork, and eggs not raised in compliance with these...

REPORTER: Is This The New Normal For The Pork Industry?

This article was originally featured in the Winter 2022 Edition of Urner Barry's Reporter magazine.

As we approach a postpandemic life some questions need to be answered: Will labor shortages ever go away? How long will supply chain and logistic disruptions last? Is this the new normal? All three of these questions are valid and need to be answered. For now, we can take a close look at how these issues have impacted the pork market from summer to fall...

PLANT PROTEIN: Get to Know Players in the Plant Protein Market: CHKN Not Chicken

Portland, Oregon-based startup CHKN Not Chicken vows that its blend of plant-based proteins and spices is real food, not a science experiment.

“We’ve been working on the recipe for CHKN Not Chicken for more than two years now. It took a lot of work to develop a product that we were all proud of and that we knew delivered on the taste and texture of chicken,” says co-founder & CEO Brian Pope. “We also wanted to ensure that the product was...

UB Consulting: Assessing the Impact of Inflation on Protein Producers

Inflation. The subject is being discussed everywhere, from your favorite news station to the line in the grocery store. Prices for producers and consumers alike have increased. The pandemic has created a supply chain headache across sectors, including the food industry. With the flu season underway, concerns are growing over the OMRICON variant.

Like many others, protein producers struggle with increased input costs for production and transportation. This short analysis examines several key indexes, such as Producers Price Indexes (PPI), to illustrate such claims relative to recent developments of price accelerations over the past few years...

SHIC Receives Pork Checkoff Funding for Program Extension to 2027

The National Pork Board of directors has approved an additional $15 million investment of Pork Checkoff funds in the Swine Health Information Center (SHIC) extending funding through 2027.

Launched with Checkoff funds in 2015, SHIC works to protect and enhance the health of the U.S. swine herd. This is done through coordinated global disease monitoring, targeted research investments that minimize the impact of future disease threats and analysis of swine health data.

The investment brings direct value back to producers through SHIC’s animal health research priorities...

This Week in Retail: Seafood Features Are Ablaze Amid the Holidays

With Christmas at our doorstep, some households are stocking up on last-minute gifts, along with food for those hosting holiday meals.

Just ahead of the holiday, seafood climbed to the top spot among protein ads this week with 29.5 percent. Beef comes in second with 25.9 percent of total protein ad volume, followed by pork with 21.6 percent. Chicken makes up 4.7 percent, compared to 5.7 percent the previous week. Turkey features increased to 16.8 percent, up from 12.2 percent last week...

Massachusetts Delays Effective Date of Question 3

Following approval by the Massachusetts Legislature, Gov. Charlie Baker today signed into law a compromise measure delaying until Aug. 15, 2022, implementation of the state’s Question 3 initiative to prohibit the sale of pork that doesn’t meet new prescriptive animal production standards. The National Pork Producers Council, which worked tirelessly to secure this much-needed solution for pork producers and the entire pork supply chain, applauded the legislative relief.

The 2016 ballot initiative – similar to California’s Proposition 12 – will ban the sale of pork from hogs born to sows housed in pens that...

Wages, Input Costs & Supply Chain Problems Pushing Up Pork Prices, Not Profits

In a report issued today on retail pork prices economists with Iowa State University, North Carolina State University and the National Pork Producers Council found that pork prices, not industry profits, are rising. Prices are rising due to increased transportation costs, supply bottlenecks and delays and increased labor costs throughout the pork chain. Those factors, said Iowa State’s Dermot Hayes, NC State’s Barry Goodwin and NPPC’s Holly Cook, were either caused or exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Other factors that have affected prices up and down the...

Urner Barry's New Market Briefing Provides an In-Depth Look at the Protein Trade Before the Holidays

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...

This Week in Retail: Inflation Climbs to 39-Year High in Latest CPI Data

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) released the latest Consumer Price Index (CPI) for November, showing the all items index up 6.8 percent over the past 12 months. This was the fastest 12-month increase since June 1982.

The food index increased 0.7 percent last month after rising 0.9 percent in both September and October. The index for food away from home rose 0.6 percent in November after gaining 0.8 percent in October, according to the BLS. Over the last year, the food away from home index has risen 5.8 percent. This was the largest yearly increase dating back to January 1982...

This Week in Retail: A Look at Holiday Ribs and Hams

The standing rib roast or holiday ham is a traditional centerpiece at the Christmas dinner table. With a little over two weeks to go until Christmas, wholesale buyers are completing their holiday purchases and will increasingly showcase these popular items at retail.

For the wholesale rib market, prices are under significant pressure following a record-shattering peak at nearly $615/cwt in late September, according to Urner Barry’s Choice quotation. Typically, the wholesale rib market begins its seasonal advance from September through around mid to late November as retailers secure inventory for the holiday.

At present, the rib cutout is in an inverse price trend compared to 2020, which saw record-high levels for this time of year...

Beef Export Value Shatters Annual Record; Pork Exports Still on Record Pace 

October was another strong month for U.S. red meat exports as beef export value continued to soar, according to data released by USDA and compiled by the U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF). October pork exports were below last year’s large total but year-to-date shipments remained slightly above the record pace of 2020.

Beef exports reached 115,709 metric tons (mt) in October, up 7.5% from a year ago, while export value climbed 48% to $956.9 million – the second-highest total on record, behind August 2021...

ANALYSIS: The Little Freeze; Where’s All the Pork?

During the lead up to Thanksgiving, the USDA Stocks in Cold Storage report came out and showed us some interesting statistics. The overall pork cold storage stock of 439.6 million pounds is the lowest number for the month of October since 2004...

Alexander & Hornung Recalls Fully Cooked Pork Products Due to Possible Listeria Contamination

Alexander & Hornung, a St. Clair Shores, Michigan establishment and business unit of Perdue Premium Meat Company, Inc., is recalling approximately 234,391 pounds of fully cooked ham and pepperoni products that may be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today.

The products were produced on various dates. The products subject to recall with associated dates are listed here. View labels here.

The products subject to recall bear establishment number “EST. M10125” inside the USDA mark of inspection...

National Pork Producers Council Hires New Chief Executive Officer

The National Pork Producers Council (NPPC) announced Bryan Humphreys has been chosen as the organization’s new chief executive officer, effective Dec. 21, 2021, following the retirement of long-time leader Neil Dierks. Humphreys brings with him years of experience in the pork industry, including as a former NPPC employee, state association executive and National Pork Board senior vice president, as well as outside the industry as a campaign operative, lobbyist and business owner.

“I am honored to have been chosen to lead NPPC as its CEO and continue..."

This Week in Retail: Jingle Bells, December Sells

December has arrived and retailers have been proactively preparing for what could be a record-breaking season for holiday spending.

The National Retail Federation predicts the highest holiday retail sales on record this year. According to the NRF’s forecast, holiday sales during November and December could grow between $843.4 billion and $859 billion. This compares with a previous high of $777.3 billion in 2020.

Rising incomes along with household wealth, a desire to return to in-person events, and a favorable weather forecast for the holiday season are among the factors contributing to a promising spending outlook...

Pork Producers Lobby Lawmakers on Issues

Preventing foreign animal diseases, addressing a shortage of agricultural workers and reauthorizing a livestock price reporting law are the primary issues on which pork producers will lobby their congressional lawmakers over the next two days, during the fall Capitol Hill fly-in of the National Pork Producers Council. More than 100 producers from across the country are expected to participate virtually in NPPC’s Legislative Action Conference.

“These are critical but by no means the only issues of concern to U.S. pork producers,” said NPPC President Jen Sorenson, communications director for Iowa Select Farms in...

Smashburger® Collaborates With Celebrity Chef And Restaurateur Rick Bayless To Launch New Menu Items

Smashburger®, the better burger fast casual restaurant, announces the launch of its newest creation, the Chorizo Cheeseburger by Chef Rick Bayless. Developed in collaboration with the award-winning chef and restauranteur, and winner of Bravo TV's Top Chef Masters Chef Rick Bayless, the authentic Mexican-inspired burger is available at all Smashburger locations nationwide starting today through February 15, 2022. Throughout the duration of the limited time dish, Smashburger is encouraging guests to donate to the Frontera Farmer Foundation, a nonprofit organization established by...

Optimizing Manure as a Nutrient Source

Swine manure is an economical alternative to commercial fertilizer, especially with ongoing supply chain disruptions. Using manure more strategically this fall can help decrease overall commercial fertilizer costs.

Pig farmers have always been committed to safeguarding and nurturing natural resources now and for future generations. One of the many ways pig farmers manage natural resources on the farm is through nutrient application plans. This includes deciding whether to use manure, commercial fertilizer or a combination of these tools.

Sustainability means doing what’s right for people, pigs, and the planet by following the long-standing...

ANALYSIS: An Update on Pork as the Holidays Approach

Thanksgiving is quickly approaching and each year we see hams gain some steam as they are a holiday favorite, with this year being no different...

Global Animal Protein Outlook 2022: Capitalizing on Ongoing Market Disruptions

Global summary
Higher input costs for animal protein supply chains, including animal feed, labor, energy and freight, will be top-of-mind change drivers. These will be accompanied by ongoing change, driven by the transition to more sustainable animal protein, biosecurity challenges and Covid-19.

Against this backdrop, animal protein prices should remain firm in 2022 (with some exceptions), supported by ongoing supply constraints and general strength in demand. “We expect leaders of progressive animal protein companies to focus on the opportunities created by the ongoing market disruptions, rather than...

Vietnam Confirms Tariff Cut on U.S. Pork

Vietnam has confirmed it will lower its Most Favored Nation (MFN) tariff on imported frozen pork to 10 from 15 percent. The reduction is expected to be implemented on July 1, 2022. Getting better market access to Vietnam, a major pork-consuming country, has been a top trade priority for the National Pork Producers Council.

Late last year, NPPC Assistant Vice President of International Affairs Maria Zieba testified on the importance to U.S. pork producers of the Vietnamese market and urged the Trump administration not to impose U.S. tariffs on goods from Vietnam...

NPPC Applauds USDA Decision To Allow Faster Line Speeds

The National Pork Producers Council today commended the U.S. Department of Agriculture for allowing some pork packing plants to run faster line speeds, a move that could increase packing capacity and alleviate supply issues in the face of strong demand.

“We’re very pleased with USDA’s proposal to let certain plants run at higher line speeds, which will allow more hogs to be harvested and more pork to get to consumers,” said NPPC President Jen Sorenson. “This is particularly important now given the strong demand for pork, supply chain problems and our...”

This Week in Retail: Gearing Up for Thanksgiving 

With Thanksgiving just two weeks away, some households are proactively stocking up on holiday staples amid ongoing interruptions in the production and transportation of many commodities.

Frozen turkeys make up 89.3 percent of turkey ads this week—up from 52.1 percent the previous week. Feature prices for frozen turkey are in a wide range from 55 cents to $1.19 per pound. 

Typically, retailers will use whole turkeys as loss leaders during the holidays in order to increase customer traffic. That may be harder for grocers to do this year due to persistent snags in the supply chain. Amplifying the logistical issues affecting global trade such as a lack of labor and port bottlenecks is historically tight levels of whole turkeys in cold storage.

USDA reported total whole frozen turkeys in cold storage at the end of September at 258.4 million pounds, the lowest level for that month since 2006. At present, nearly all weight categories for whole turkeys, whether young hens or young toms, are quoted at all-time highs. Urner Barry’s benchmark quotation for young toms, East, frozen, 18 pounds is $1.43 per pound, a record high and up 27.7% from the prior five-year average...

Red Meat Exports Remain on Record Pace Through Third Quarter

Both U.S. beef and U.S. pork exports are on a record pace through September, according to data released by USDA and compiled by the U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF). Beef exports posted one of the best months on record in September, with value climbing nearly 60% above last year. Pork export volume was slightly below last September, but value still increased 8%.

Beef exports continued to soar in September at 123,628 metric tons (mt), up 20% from a year ago and the fourth largest volume of the post-BSE era...

Pork Checkoff: Understanding PRRS 1-4-4

The swine industry is battling a tough strain of porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome (PRRS) virus – PRRS 1-4-4 Lineage 1C. It is an unusual strain because infections peak in spring/summer, as well as fall/winter months, compared to other strains that typically only peak in fall/winter months. However, pork producers have the prevention tools to combat the pathogen and prevent spread, including biosecurity and research.

For the October Pork Checkoff producer webinar, animal health experts presented guidance, biosecurity considerations and recent research on PRRS. Speakers included:

- Pat Bane, Illinois pork producer...

ANALYSIS: The Ebbs and Flows of Bellies: A Look at Seasonal Trends

The belly market has recently seen volatile price action, due to a confluence of factors such as labor issues...

Processed Meat Market to Reach $497.1 Bn, Globally, by 2030 at 4.8% CAGR: Allied Market Research

Allied Market Research published a report, titled, "Processed Meat Market by Meat Type (Poultry, Beef, Pork, and Others), Product Type (Frozen, Chilled, and Canned), Application (Commercial and Residential), and Distribution Channel (HoReCa, Supermarkets/Hypermarkets, Convenience Stores, Independent Retailers, and Others): Global Opportunity Analysis and Industry Forecast 2021-2030." According to the report, the global processed meat industry was estimated at $319.6 billion in 2020, and is anticipated to hit $497.1 billion by 2030, registering a CAGR of 4.8% from...

USMEF Welcomes Ohio Corn as Million Dollar Club Member

The U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF) is recognizing the Ohio Corn Checkoff as the newest member of the USMEF Million Dollar Club – a group of agricultural organizations that have invested more than $1 million in the promotion of U.S. beef, pork in lamb in international markets.

Ohio Corn’s first investment in USMEF programs came in 1990. An award honoring Ohio corn producers for more than 30 years of steadfast and consistent support of USMEF will be presented Nov. 11 at the USMEF Strategic Planning Conference in Carlsbad, Calif...

This Week in Retail: Consumers Get a Head Start on Their Holiday Shopping

The final days of October are upon us and grocery circulars will soon be inundated with holiday promotions. 

Retailers will increasingly advertise Thanksgiving staples and several outlets are offering shoppers free turkeys or other holiday favorites after spending a minimum amount. BOGO promotions are also popular at this time of year as grocers make room for fresh and frozen turkeys, hams, and beyond.

This week in retail, however, deep discounts at the meat case are hard to come by. Interruptions in the supply chain continue to influence price points for nearly all commodities while altering consumer shopping behavior.

Shoppers are expected to begin their holiday shopping earlier than usual this year. Some consumers are concerned that they may not be able to buy everything on their list due to the global gridlock at ports and production slowdowns...

This Week in Retail: Buying Opportunities Increase for Pork

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

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

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

ANALYSIS: A Brief Look at October Pork Month Features

Historically, during the month of October, hog and pork products are marketed around the US...

Evans Food Group Recalls Pork Products Imported Without Benefit of Inspection

Evans Food Group Ltd., a Chicago, Ill. establishment, is recalling approximately 10,359 pounds of pork pellet products that were not presented for import re-inspection into the United States, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today.

The pork pellet products were imported on September 15, 2021 and further processed into pork rind and chicharrones items. The products subject to recall are listed here.

The products subject to recall bear establishment number “EST. 6030” inside the USDA mark of inspection. These items were shipped...

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

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

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

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

Nick’s Famous Bar-B-Q Recalls Ready-To-Eat Pork Products Due to Possible Listeria Contamination

Nick’s Famous Bar-B-Q, a Nashville, Tenn., establishment, is recalling approximately 3,140 pounds of ready-to-eat (RTE) smoked pork barbecue products that may be adulterated with Listeria monocytogenes, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today.

The frozen RTE hickory smoked pork barbecue products were produced on September 7, 2021 and September 8, 2021 and packaged on September 8, 2021. The following products are subject to recall:

- 20-lb. boxes of...

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

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

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

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

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

REPORTER: A Summer of Extreme Volatility for Pork

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

The pork market continues to contend with a confluence of significant variables that have made for price extremes and unparalleled volatility.

The labor shortages that began early on during the COVID-19 outbreak have persisted, and in some areas grown worse as time has gone on. In addition, tight hog supplies, which are partially a result of culling actions taken last year, as well as potentially from more recent PRRS outbreaks, have lifted hog prices to lofty...

August Beef Exports Top $1 Billion; Pork Exports Remain on Record Pace

U.S. beef exports soared to another new value record in August, topping the $1 billion mark for the first time, according to data released by USDA and compiled by the U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF). Pork exports posted another strong month in August, remaining ahead of the record pace established in 2020.

August beef exports totaled 132,577 metric tons (mt), up 21% from a year ago and the second largest volume this year, while export value climbed 55% to $1.04 billion. For January through August...

This Week in Retail: Looking Ahead to October

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

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

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

USDA Commits $500 Million For ASF Prevention

The National Pork Producers Council today commended Agriculture Secretary Vilsack for dedicating $500 million in USDA Commodity Credit Corporation (CCC) funds for prevention of and preparation for African swine fever (ASF), a pig-only disease that would be devastating for the U.S. pork industry.

The CCC, a wholly owned government corporation created in 1933, implements specific agricultural programs established by Congress and carries out activities under the CCC Charter Act.

“NPPC thanks Sec. Vilsack for providing additional funding for federal efforts to protect America’s 60,000-plus pork producers from this..."

Espi’s Sausage and Tocino Co. Recalls Ready-to-Eat Chicken and Pork Hot Dog Products 

Espi’s Sausage and Tocino Co., a Seattle, Wash. establishment, is recalling approximately 2,048 pounds of frozen ready-to-eat chicken and pork hot dog products that may be adulterated with Listeria monocytogenes, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today.

The frozen ready-to-eat chicken and pork hot dog product was produced on May 19, 2021. The following products are subject to recall:

- 12-oz vacuum packed plastic packages containing “Argentina MIGHTY MEATY CHICKEN AND PORK HOTDOG JUMBO” and...

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

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

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

Olymel to Permanently Close Henryville Pork Processing Plant 

Olymel management has announced the permanent closure of its Henryville, pork further processing plant in the Montérégie region. This decision will take effect on November 12 under the provisions of Quebec’s Labor Standards Act and will result in the abolition of 29 jobs. The employees affected by this decision, most of whom are represented by the United Food and Commercial Workers Union (UFCW) Local 501, were all informed this morning through a meeting and a personalized letter. All employees will be offered relocation in nearby Olymel facilities in the Montérégie region.

“Closing a facility is always a difficult decision. However, after careful evaluation of our capacities and needs in this production sector, we have concluded that...

NPPC Commends House Lawmakers For African Swine Fever Funding Request

The National Pork Producers Council commended seven House members for requesting funding to protect the U.S. swine herd from African swine fever (ASF).

In a letter, the lawmakers urged House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-CA) to prioritize funding for USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) to address a potential outbreak in the United States of ASF, which recently was detected in the Dominican Republic, the first time in 40 years the disease has been in the Western Hemisphere. Funds are necessary “to ensure that pork producers in our districts and across the country do not suffer the severe consequences of a potential ASF outbreak in the United States...