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Boar's Head Provisions Co. Recalls RTE Liverwurst And Other Deli Meat Products
Boar's Head Provisions Co., Inc., a Jarratt, Va., establishment, is recalling all liverwurst product produced by the establishment that is currently available in commerce because it may be adulterated with Listeria monocytogenes, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today. The company is also recalling additional deli meat products that were produced on the same line and on the same day as the liverwurst and, therefore, may be adulterated with L. monocytogenes. The company is recalling approximately 207,528 pounds of products...
ANALYSIS: Record Price Gap Between Pork 72 Trimmings and Boneless Beef 90s in July
The monthly price spread between UB pork 72 lean trimmings and UB boneless beef 90s in July has increased to $2.92/lb, the largest spread ever recorded since data collection began in 1985. Pork trim can sometimes substitute for beef trim in hot dog production, offering a cost-effective option when domestic boneless beef prices are high in least-cost formulations.
Before the 4th of July, pork trim supplies were readily available, but prices have remained full steady post-holiday
U.S. Pork Industry Fuels American Jobs and Economic Growth: New Report Unveiled
The National Pork Producers Council (NPPC) released a new economic contribution report detailing the significant impact America’s pig farmers have on the United States’ agricultural and overall economy. The report highlights the pork industry’s value chain contributions and trends in production and industry structure.
“America’s pork industry is a vital pillar of our nation’s agricultural economy, contributing over $62 billion annually and supporting hundreds of thousands of jobs across the country,” said NPPC President Lori Stevermer, a pork producer from Easton, Minn. “Producers are committed to delivering...
The Retail Rundown: Competition for Ad Space Intensifies
As the final full week of July comes to a close, the retail sector is promoting at-home eating during the dog days of summer, a time when protein consumption typically drops due to the heat and fewer major retail buying occasions.
Competition for ad space is heating up, with seafood and pork leading the way, each capturing 25.8% of retail buying opportunities this week. Beef follows with 22.4%, unchanged from the previous week. Chicken has increased to 17.7%, up from 16.4% last week. Eggs account for 4.5%, with most feature activity...
Global IT Outage Reaches U.S. Meat Processing Sector
Early Friday, a significant IT outage caused global disruptions across sectors including airlines, banks, and healthcare services.
Cybersecurity company CrowdStrike identified the issue as a "defect found in a single content update for Windows" and confirmed that it wasn't a security incident or cyberattack. A fix has been deployed, said CrowdStrike.
The U.S. meat processing sector may also be affected, with one pork plant reportedly experiencing computer issues that could halt operations. Processing plants use computers for critical tasks including inventory management and equipment operations...
Philippines Plans to Soon Roll Out ASF Vaccine
The office of the President of the Philippines announced that the Department of Agriculture (DA) would roll out an African Swine Fever (ASF) vaccine by September. The initial rollout will be for government use, with commercial use to follow.
According to the DA, the commercial trial for the vaccine is expected to be approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) this month, allowing the DA to start mass trials. However, the UK government noted in an ASF outbreak in Asia assessment report that the department...
The Retail Rundown: Grocers Vie with Foodservice During Peak Travel Season
Summer is usually the peak demand period for foodservice, as warmer weather encourages vacation plans and out-and-about activities. As more consumers embark on trips, spending is typically increased at restaurants and bars.
Data released by the U.S. Census Bureau on Tuesday showed that restaurant business rose 0.3 percent last month, likely supported by the summer travel season. Overall retail sales in June remained unchanged from May, outpacing expectations for a decline. Stock futures climbed following the stronger-than-expected data, sending the Dow Jones Industrial Average to...
Bojangles Brings Back BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwich with Exclusive WWE Collectible Cups
Bojangles, the beloved Carolina-born restaurant chain known for its legendary flavor, announces the return of its BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwich for a limited time only. This fan-favorite features a tender, juicy North Carolina pit-smoked pulled pork piled high and topped with the restaurant’s signature BBQ sauce and crisp, creamy house-made coleslaw.
This year, fans can enjoy the delicious BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwich with an extra special side. Throughout the month of July, and while supplies last, Bojangles is partnering with WWE to celebrate...
AW Farms Recalls Ready-To-Eat Hot Dog Products Produced Without Benefit of Inspection
AW Farms, an Argillite, Ky., establishment, is recalling approximately 6,900 pounds of hot dog products that were produced without the benefit of federal inspection, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today.
The ready-to-eat hot dogs were produced on various dates since approximately May 30, 2024, and have a shelf-life of 45 days. The following products are subject to recall [view labels]:
Taylor's Sausage, Inc. Recalls Ready-To-Eat Landjaeger Sausage Products
Taylor's Sausage, Inc., a Cave Junction, Ore., establishment, is recalling approximately 74 pounds of ready-to-eat Landjaeger sausage 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 shelf-stable, ready-to-eat Landjaeger sausages were produced on Dec. 8, 2023, and packaged on Dec. 19, 2023. The following products are subject to recall:
The Retail Rundown: Dog Days Dull Buying Occasions
Holiday retail meat clearance last week was reported as mostly positive albeit a bit scattered due to varying weather conditions across the country. This week, extreme heat and record temperatures are expected to persist in the Western and Eastern U.S.
The sweltering conditions that typically accompany the dog days of summer make it challenging for retail to capture regular meat purchases. The egg case also typically sees fewer purchases around this time of year as consumers opt for cold breakfasts like cereal and fruit...
May Beef Export Value Highest in 11 Months; Pork Exports Below Year-Ago
The value of U.S. beef exports topped $900 million in May, the highest since June 2023, according to data released by USDA and compiled by USMEF. Pork exports posted another solid performance in May, but were below last year in both volume and value.
May beef exports totaled 110,133 metric tons (mt), down 5% from a year ago but the second largest of 2024. Beef export value reached $902.4 million in May, 3% above last year and the highest in 11 months. For January through...
Smithfield Foods to Close Altoona, Iowa, Facility
Production to be consolidated to other Smithfield facilities to increase efficiencies
Smithfield Foods will close its Altoona, Iowa, ham boning facility and consolidate production volume at other locations to improve the efficiency of its manufacturing platform.
Smithfield will provide transition assistance to 314 employees at the facility who will be affected by the closure. The company will meet with employees individually to provide additional details about the transition plan, including severance, financial incentives to assure business continuity and potential employment opportunities with Smithfield.
“We appreciate the good work our Altoona employees have...
Meat Institute Opposes Section 301 Tariffs; Calls for Comprehensive Trade Agreements
In comments submitted to the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) opposing the proposed modifications to the Section 301 actions, the Meat Institute called for comprehensive trade agreements as a long-term strategy to level the playing field for meat and poultry companies and to hold China accountable for its actions.
“The Section 301 tariffs and resulting retaliatory measures imposed by China have caused undue harm to U.S. agricultural exports, including meat exports. U.S. trade policy, such as the one proposed in this Section 301 action, should not inflict pain...
Training Program Underway in Colombia to Boost U.S. Red Meat Sales in Foodservice
The four-city, six-month-long training program, which addresses operational and marketing issues, will help restaurants become more profitable with U.S. pork, beef.
Decision-makers in Colombia’s foodservice sector turned out last month for the third phase of a comprehensive training program for U.S. pork and beef that took place on consecutive days in Medellin, Bogota, Cartagena and Cali. For the four cities, 135 participants from 65 companies with 694 points-of-sale participated in the training sessions, which focused on butchery analysis and technical specifications...
Reaching the Consumer: New Research Helps Identify the Future Pork Consumer
Research shows pork consumption is declining across every generation and is at risk of becoming a protein of the past. Baby Boomers have been the primary consumers of fresh pork and they are aging out. Gen Z and Millennials don’t buy fresh pork at the same rate as older generations. The good news is the decline in pork sales is reversible. The pork industry needs to unite around a common goal of making pork relevant to younger consumers.
Following one of the worst years of profitability for pork producers...
ANALYSIS: April's Record U.S. Pork Export Volume, Central America Exceeds China
The discussion in the U.S. pork market has been largely focused on improved export interest compared to 2023 levels. Analyzing the USDA's total U.S. pork exports for April reveals the highest volume ever recorded for that month since data collection began in 1970, slightly surpassing the volumes of 2020 and 2021. This increase is notable as U.S. pork has become more price-competitive in international markets due to a drop in European pork production, making E.U. pork supplies less abundant than in past years...
ANALYSIS: China’s May 2024 Beef Imports Soar 30% YoY; Consumer Shifts from Pork
China’s May 2024 beef imports rebounded from last month, rising 4.5% m-o-m or 10,048 mt to 234,449 mt, the latest General Administration of Customs People's Republic of China data indicated.
On a yearly basis, volumes soared 30.7% (55,053 mt), primarily driven by a hike in Brazilian imports. Exports to China was previously suspended in 2023 over Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy (BSE) issues.
Year-to-date (YTD) figures stood at 1.23 million mt, a decline of 23.6% or 234,589 mt compared to the same period last year...
Olli Salumeria Launches "Official Snack of Summer" with That's it.
Olli Salumeria, the fast-growing producer of authentic Italian-style salami, has teamed up with That's it. to launch the "Official Snack of Summer." Named an Editor's Top Summer 2024 Product Pick by Food & Beverage Magazine, the new Olli Snack Packs combine sweet and salty flavors for a delicious, gluten-free, high-protein snack that can be enjoyed from anywhere while on-the-go.
Olli products feature authentic, fourth-generation Italian recipes and are slow-cured with 100% vegetarian-fed pork raised without antibiotics, with no added nitrates or nitrites...
Carando Introduces Premium Charcuterie Cuts to Elevate Summertime Entertaining
Carando®, the artisan of Classic Italian Meats, is expanding its offerings with the launch of Premium All-Natural Dry Sausage. Whether you're looking for the perfect appetizer for your weekend dinner party or craving a flavorful snack to enjoy al fresco, these savory charcuterie cuts – made from superior cuts of meat and all-natural ingredients, and conveniently pre-sliced and ready-to-plate – make for the perfect addition to any entertaining spread.
The new product line includes three varieties – Italian...
Bonneval Foods, LLC Recalls Barbecue Pork Skin Product Due To Misbranding And Undeclared Allergens
Bonneval Foods, LLC, a Gonzales, La. establishment, is recalling all barbecue pork skin product that is currently available in commerce due to misbranding and undeclared allergens, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today. The product contains wheat and soy, known allergens, that are not declared on the product label.
The following product is subject to recall [view labels]:
1.7-oz. plastic bags containing “BONNEVAL’S BBQ Pork Skins”. All product available in retail or in consumer’s...
FSIS Issues Public Health Alert For Not-Ready-To-Eat Pork And Beef Bacon Products
The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) is issuing a public health alert for not-ready-to-eat pork and beef bacon products due to levels of sodium nitrite that exceed the regulatory limit. 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 the affected product is no longer available for purchase.
The dry cured pork and beef bacon items were...
April Pork Exports Largest in Nearly Three Years; Beef Exports Also Trend Higher
April exports of U.S. pork reached the highest volume and value since May 2021, according to data released by USDA and compiled by USMEF. It was also a robust month for U.S. beef exports, which were the largest in 10 months and valued at just under $900 million.
Fueled by a record performance in leading market Mexico, pork exports totaled 277,910 metric tons (mt) in April, up 14% from a year ago and the fifth largest on record. Export value climbed 18% to $778.8 million
Analysis: April Boost in Pork Cold Storage Can't Offset Annual Shortfall
The recent USDA Cold Storage Report revealed a notable 38-million-pound increase in April, marking an 8.25% month-over-month rise. However, cold storage levels remain 66 million pounds below this same time last year, reflecting an 11.6% decline.
Several items showed month-over-month increases, including bellies (3%), butts (8.3%), bone-in hams (49.5%), boneless hams (28.5%), boneless loins (3.3%), bone-in picnics (17.6%), ribs (3.7%), and total pork (8.25%). In contrast, bone-in loins (-3.2%) and trimmings (-0.2%) experienced decreases due to improved interest...
Moderate Growth Expected for Mexican Meat Production in 2024
Comecarne, the Mexican Meat Council, has estimated that Mexican meat production will maintain moderate growth in 2024, influenced by potential disruptions in the supply of livestock feed and impacts of climate on grain and forage production.
In the previous year, total meat consumption in Mexico reached 10.3 million tonnes, including pork, beef, and chicken. This marked a 4.9% increase compared to the end of 2022, positioning Mexico as the sixth largest meat consumer globally.
According to Comecarne, the rise in consumption is largely attributed to lower consumer prices and increased...
Pork Producers One Step Closer to Certainty as Bipartisan Solution for Prop. 12 Clears
The National Pork Producers Council (NPPC) is pleased to announce the U.S. House Agriculture Committee has passed their 2024 Farm Bill, which supported all of producer’s farm bill requests, including a federal fix to the host of Prop. 12 issues plaguing producers and consumers.
“The 2024 Farm Bill is a golden opportunity to address a top issue for pork producers across the country – California Prop. 12 – and I’m pleased to see the U.S. House Agriculture Committee seize the opportunity to stop a potential
NPPC, Farm Bureau Lead Nearly 1,000 in Coalition to Urge Congressional Fix to California Prop. 12
The National Pork Producers Council (NPPC) joined forces with the American Farm Bureau Federation to garner support from 900+ agricultural stakeholders supporting the federal fix to California Prop. 12 to be included in the 2024 Farm Bill.
Laying out robust arguments in a letter to U.S. House Agriculture Committee Chairman G.T. Thompson (R-PA) and Ranking Member David Scott (D-GA) on Prop. 12’s damaging implications, the coalition highlighted the following:
Marketplace mayhem: S. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack warned the...
Analysis: Rising Demand for U.S. Boneless Pork Butt in South Korea
Upon analyzing the USDA's year-to-date export data, there is a noteworthy increase of 70.6% in total weekly U.S. pork export volumes to South Korea compared to this same period last year. These exports have primarily consisted of pork butt items.
Conversely, year-to-date total beef exports to South Korea have decreased by 5.4% from the previous year. Elevated U.S. beef prices have led to a reduction in weekly export volumes to South Korea.
With dwindling pork supplies in the European market and high U.S. beef prices...
Brazil's BRF Shares Rise Almost 14% After Strong Q1 Results
Shares in Brazilian pork and chicken processor BRF SA rose almost 14% in early afternoon trade on Wednesday after the company reported strong quarterly results on better pricing in export markets and lower grain costs.
The company said it earned a net 594 million real ($116.88 million) in the first quarter, which is seasonally weaker than the preceding one, beating the average of analysts' expectations of a 449.79 million real gain.
Analysts at BTG Pactual said in a note to clients that BRF's performance was "impressive."...
Clemens Food Group Acquires Kunzler & Company
Clemens Food Group of Hatfeild, Pennsylvania reported an acquisition of Lancaster based, Kunzler & Company, Inc.
Both Clemens and Kunzler have built success in the pork industry spanning over 120 years respectively, are family owned, and share core values which empasizes in family, team development and ethical business practices.
Clemens, the 5th largest pork processor in the US, will add to its portfolio three more processing plants, one in Lancaster and two in Tyrone. These locations help benefit the company's strategy to expand its support for Pennsylvania's agriculture and food processing industry...
FSIS Issues Public Health Alert for Raw Pork Chorizo Products
The U.S. Department of Agriculture's Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) is issuing a public health alert due to concerns of raw pork chorizo products that may be contaminated with a foreign material, specifically hard plastic and metal. FSIS is issuing a public health alert to ensure that consumers are aware that this product should not be consumed. A recall was not requested because the product is no longer available for purchase.
The raw pork chorizo items were produced on February 12, 2024. The following product is subject...
ConSup North America Inc. Recalls Ready-To-Eat Sliced Prosciutto Product
ConSup North America Inc., a Lincoln Park, N.J. firm, is recalling approximately 85,984 pounds of ready-to-eat (RTE) sliced prosciutto ham product produced in Germany without the benefit of equivalent inspection, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today.
The RTE sliced prosciutto ham item was produced on various dates from Sept. 25, 2023 through March 6, 2024. The following product is subject to recall [view labels]:
Analysis: Dollar to Peso Currency Conversion Impact on the U.S. Pork Bone-In Ham Market
Following the Easter holiday and into early April, the US 23/27 bone-in ham market displayed a fully steady to firm tone, with the majority of buying interest coming from the Mexican market. The Urner Barry weekly average price for bone-in hams for the week of April 8th, 2024 was the second highest on record for the month of April, dating back to 1981. This price was only exceeded during the 2014 Porcine Epidemic Diarrhea Virus (PEDv) outbreak, reflecting the tight supply...
Volatile Pig Market Means Quality & Trust Are Critical When Selecting Feed Additives, Says Novonesis
With the swine market enduring ongoing volatility, producers face profitability challenges and are ever more driven to ensure they can make optimal use of their biggest cost: feed. When selecting a feed additive which helps achieve this, predictability and consistency are crucial.
In today’s Industry Perspectives piece, Novonesis’s Dr. Lea Hübertz Birch Hansen, Global Technical Product Manager, Swine, and Lena Raff, Senior Portfolio Manager, Swine, present their view on the current and future market situation while discussing the ongoing focus on delivering high quality...
ADM Animal Nutrition Expands Recall to Include 17 Additional Lots of Chicken, Swine and Rabbit Feed
ADM Animal Nutrition, a division of ADM , is expanding the recall announced on March, 30, 2024, to include the following additional products due to elevated levels of magnesium, sodium, calcium and/or phosphorus: Pen Pals® Chicken Starter-Grower (Product Nos. 70009AAA46 and 70009AAA44); Pen Pals Egg Maker Complete (Product No. 70010AAAE4); MaxLean GF Concentrate (Product No. 12354AAA); ShowTec Sow Ration with Thermal Care (Product No. 12343AAA); ShowTec BB 18 BMD (Product No. 18241AGNE4); ShowTec BB 18 BMD/DBZ (Product No. 18241PLM)...
ANALYSIS: Frozen Pork Supplies Plummet to Monthly Record Lows
The latest USDA Pork Cold Storage Report reveals that frozen pork supplies reached record monthly lows in February. Stocks decreased by 1% from the previous month and declined by 12% compared to last year. The most significant declines were observed in boneless hams, boneless loins, ribs, trimmings, and bellies, which experienced month-over-month decreases.
This reduction in frozen stocks can be partly attributed to increased demand during the third and fourth quarters of 2023 from regions impacted by Prop 12, ahead of the January 1, 2024, deadline...
Mintec's 2024 US Easter Index
Mintec’s US Easter Index measures price fluctuations across key food commodities that are typically consumed in the US during the Easter period. The US Easter Index compares the commodities’ prices in March 2024 against March 2023 to determine whether consumers will be hypothetically better or worse off this Easter. The Index is comprised of three sub-indices: the US Easter Protein Index represents a selection of meats, fish and eggs that will typically be eaten as part of a main Easter dinner; the US Easter Chocolate Index compares the main...
Fire at Korean Pig Farm; Over 18,000 Animal Casualties
In the early hours of 25th March, a fire erupted at a Korean pig farm located 50 kilometers south of Seoul, run by a farming cooperative in Icheon-si. Over 16,000 piglets and 2,300 sows were killed in the event.
The fire broke out at 5:45 am with three out of six pig barns being burnt down, as reported by Korean media sources.
No human casualties were reported.
The Retail Rundown: 2024 Annual Power of Meat Study Recap
The 2024 Power of Meat Study was revealed at the Annual Meat Conference in Nashville, Tennessee this week. Anne-Marie Roerink, Principal at 210 Analytics, presented the findings and identified the trends currently shaping the retail meat sector.
This year’s report found that the number of Americans who describe themselves as meat eaters (80%) and the number of households that purchase meat (98%) were unchanged from 2023. Circana data indicates that overall household penetration across all incomes, ethnicities, household sizes, and ages, averages above 97%...
Hormel Foods to Wow the Crowd at International Pizza Expo with its Latest Pizza-Topping Innovation
Hormel Foods takes its role as a leader in the pizza and foodservice industries seriously, and this spring, the company is once again positioned as a trend setter. Those attending next week's International Pizza Expo in Las Vegas will get to witness this expertise firsthand with the unveiling of HORMEL® Ribbon Pepperoni, the latest food-forward innovation from the pizza-topping experts at Hormel Foods.
Inspired by the pizza stylings of Windsor, Ontario — an oft-underrated pizza epicenter, where shredded...
One-Hop Shopping! BJ’s Wholesale Club Delivers Fresh Savings for Easter Celebrations
BJ’s Wholesale Club (NYSE: BJ), a leading operator of membership warehouse clubs, is bringing egg-citing savings this year on Easter essentials, including fresh food, spring décor, apparel, paper goods and basket stuffers.
Members will find unbeatable value on Easter essentials both in-club and online at BJs.com. Plus, members can earn additional savings when they stock up on practically anything between March 12 and March 31. When BJ’s members spend $150* in one transaction between those dates, either in-club or online, they will receive a...
Another 38 Brazilian Slaughterhouses Can Export Meat to China
Number of license issuances in a single advertisement is the highest ever recorded in history
In the year in which Brazil celebrates 50 years of diplomatic relations with China, another 38 Brazilian meat processing plants were authorized to sell meat to the Asian country, according to a statement from the General Administration of Customs of China (GACC) sent to the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock (Map) this Tuesday ( 12) .
38 licenses were granted, including eight chicken slaughterhouses, 24 cattle slaughterhouses, a beef thermoprocessing establishment and five...
Rapid Start for 2024 Pork Exports; Beef Export Value Above Year-Ago
U.S. pork exports raced to a great start in 2024, according to January data released by USDA and compiled by USMEF. While January beef exports were slightly below last year’s volume, export value trended significantly higher. Lamb exports were also strong in January, posting the highest value in more than four years.
Although January pork exports were led by another powerful performance in leading market Mexico, U.S. pork continued to make gains in a wide range of Western Hemisphere and Asia-Pacific destinations...
MF Meats Recalls Raw Meat Products Due to Contamination by a Non-Food Grade Substance
MF Meats, a Falconer, N.Y. establishment, is recalling approximately 93,277 pounds of raw meat products, which may have been contaminated with non-food grade mineral seal oil, which is not approved for use in meat processing, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today.
The raw meat items were produced from Nov. 26, 2023 through Feb. 16, 2024. The following products are subject to recall:
Wen’s Food Group Reports Approx. $9 Bln Loss in Pig Business for FY 2023
Wen's Food Group, a major Chinese food conglomerate specializing in pig breeding, processing, and distribution of pork products, provided a detailed breakdown of its FY 2023 losses during a recent conference call with investors.
Previously, in January, Wen’s Food Group announced it expected a year-on-year loss between CNY 61-67 billion (approximately $9-10 billion) for FY 2023. The company attributed this loss largely to a decrease in the Chinese market hog and broiler prices...
New Industry Resource Captures Culinary Evolution of the Caribbean
Developed in collaboration with local food scholars and regional chefs, the textbook is a go-to resource for educators and foodservice professionals
Honoring island traditions and promoting regional variations of local dishes are at the heart of a new USMEF marketing program to incorporate U.S. beef and pork into culinary communities throughout the Caribbean islands.
“The culinary histories of the islands are fascinating and ever-evolving,” says USMEF Caribbean Representative Elizabeth Wunderlich. “But there are no resources available that capture the multi-cultural influences...
Kraig Westerbeek Named President, Smithfield Hog Production
Smithfield Foods has named Kraig Westerbeek as president of its hog production operations effective Feb. 29, reporting to President and Chief Executive Officer Shane Smith.
“Kraig has been an extremely valuable asset to Smithfield Foods throughout his career,” said Shane Smith, chief executive officer for Smithfield. “His extensive experience in our hog production division has helped keep Smithfield on the forefront of our industry, and I look forward to his continued leadership.”
Westerbeek brings more than 30 years of industry experience to his new role...
The Retail Rundown: Finalizing February’s Features
Retailers are finalizing their February features while actively preparing for spring demand, which is bolstered by seasonal factors like warmer weather along with holidays including St. Patrick’s Day and Easter.
Retail features are shifting from red meat and poultry towards seafood as Lenten observers begin the 40 days of fasting and reduced meat consumption.
The seafood complex continues to hold the top spot within total protein features, accounting for 37% this week. Beef follows with 21% of retail buying opportunities, while pork closes in at 19%. Chicken claims almost 16% of ad space, nearly...
Don Novo & Son Recalls Ready-To-Eat Meat Products Due to Possible Listeria Contamination
Don Novo & Son, a Miami, Fla. establishment, is recalling approximately 9,330 pounds of ready-to-eat (RTE) meat products that may be adulterated with Listeria monocytogenes, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today.
The RTE meat products were produced on December 21, 2023. The following products are subject to recall [view labels]:
CDFA Issues New Proposition 12 Guidance Document on Certificates
The California Department of Agriculture's (CDFA) Animal Care Program has issued a new guidance document to aid stakeholders in distinguishing between the various certificates issued for Proposition 12 compliance.
Proposition 12 (2018) went fully into effect on January 1, 2024. The law prohibits the sale of shell eggs, liquid eggs, whole pork meat, or whole veal meat in California from animals that fail to comply with specific standards for freedom of movement, cage-free design, and specified minimum floor space.
The Supreme Court upheld Proposition 12...
U.S. Pork Export Value Sets Annual Record; Strong Finish for Beef Exports
Led by a record-shattering performance in Mexico and broad-based growth in other markets, U.S. pork exports set a value record in 2023, according to year-end data released by USDA and compiled by the U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF). While 2023 beef exports were below the record totals posted the previous year, December exports were the largest since August and December export value increased 10% year-over-year.
December pork exports climbed nearly 10% from a year ago to 268,399 metric tons...
Macgregors Meat and Seafood Ltd Recalls Frozen Ready-To-Eat Pork Products
Macgregors Meat and Seafood Ltd, a Woodbridge, Ontario, Canada establishment, is recalling approximately 2,745 pounds of frozen, ready-to-eat 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 following products are subject to recall [view labels]:
UK Pork Producers Explore Export Opportunities to CA Amid Prop 12 Enforcement
British meat producers are exploring export opportunities to California after Proposition 12 went into full enforcement on January 1, 2024.
Proposition 12 originated as a ballot initiative in 2018 and was upheld by the Supreme Court in a 5-4 decision on May 11, 2023. The Californian law prohibits the sale of meat and eggs in the state that were raised under certain farming conditions.
Under the law, breeding pigs must have a minimum of 24 square feet of usable floor space per animal. Proposition 12 applies to...
FSIS Issues Public Health Alert for Raw Frozen Pork Dumpling Products
The U.S. Department of Agriculture's Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) is issuing a public health alert because Dim Sum Factory Inc., a Flushing, N.Y., establishment, produced and distributed raw, frozen pork dumpling products without the benefit of federal inspection. A recall was not requested because the products are no longer available for purchase.
The raw, frozen pork wonton dumpling products were produced on various dates since September 6, 2023, and have a shelf life of 18 months. The following product is subject to the public health alert...
Analysis: Elevated Pork Cutout Values Amidst Supply Disruptions in January
The average weekly Urner Barry pork cutout value currently stands at about $88.1/cwt for last week, reflecting a 7.9% increase compared to the same period last year. This marks the second-highest level for this week in January historically since data collection commenced in 2003; with the only higher value recorded being in 2022 largely due to labor challenges stemming from the pandemic.
The recent uptick in cutout value is primarily linked to holiday downtime around production schedules and extensive disruptions from winter weather across the US...
Navigating the Path to Sustainable Pork Production: A Reflection on FAO Reports
Jamie Burr, chief sustainability officer at NPB, reflects on the recent FAO reports and how U.S. pork is committed to producing sustainable products.
In December, the U.N. Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), which is the leading international agricultural organization, released two important reports touching on animal agriculture – the first report notably concludes that continued efficiency is the most promising way to reduce livestock’s emissions. The second report is a roadmap for ending hunger while achieving the goal of limiting warming to 1.5°C...
Welcome to BBQ Lovers’ Bliss! SONIC Introduces Pulled Pork BBQ Cheeseburger and Totchos
Get ready to embark on a flavor-packed journey at SONIC® Drive-In with new menu additions that will redefine your love for barbeque. Celebrating the best of BBQ piled on top of menu favorites, the Pulled Pork BBQ Cheeseburger, Pulled Pork BBQ Totchos, and the Pulled Pork Sandwich are available starting February 5 through March 31 at SONIC locations nationwide, though SONIC App users can get early access to these new craveable creations starting January 29...
U.S. Pork and Beef Nutrition Showcased at Ironman Event in Colombia
USMEF partnered with Colombian importers to promote U.S. pork and beef nutrition and product availability during an athletic competition in Cartagena. When promoting the health and nutritional benefits of high-quality U.S. pork and beef in Latin America, USMEF sometimes establishes a high-profile U.S. industry presence at targeted events in key markets. One recent event was in Colombia, where an Ironman competition brought health and nutrition-conscious athletes and families together for three days in Cartagena.
With an audience focused on nutrition and athletic performance, USMEF put...
China to Encourage Hog Farmers to Reduce Capacity After Price Slump
China will "guide" farmers to reduce hog production capacity as it steps up regulation of the industry, the agriculture ministry said on Tuesday, after an aggressive expansion drive led to an oversupply of pigs and heavy losses.
Big agribusinesses in the world's top pork producer have modernised farms and expanded pig herds so rapidly in recent years that a downturn in demand led to plummeting hog prices, mounting losses, and rising debt last year.
Farmers lost an average of 76 yuan ($10.60) per hog in 2023...
NPPC Welcomes Steph Carlson as AVP of State and National Relations
Steph Carlson has joined the National Pork Producers Council (NPPC) as assistant vice president (AVP) of state and national relations. In her role, she will serve as the primary NPPC point of contact for state pork organizations. Carlson will be based in Des Moines, Iowa.
“Steph’s wealth of experience will be a huge asset to NPPC and state associations,” said Cody McKinley, NPPC vice president of operations and state and national relations “Her agricultural roots run deep, and I’m confident she will represent the industry well and...
Albertsons Companies Launches New Signature SELECT® Mix + Match Meal Solution
Albertsons Companies, Inc. (NYSE: ACI) today announced the launch of its newest Own Brand innovation, the Signature SELECT Mix + Match meal solution. Designed to save customers time both in the store and in the kitchen, this new line of frozen entrees, sides and veggies cook together in one standard oven at 375 degrees for about 35 minutes. Available now at 1,900 Albertsons Cos. stores including Albertsons, Safeway, Vons, Jewel-Osco, ACME and Shaw’s, this customizable meal solution feeds a family of four at a great value...
November Pork Export Value Highest in 30 Months; Asia Headwinds Persist for Beef
Fueled by record performances in Mexico, Central America and Colombia, November exports of U.S. pork reached the highest value since mid-2021, according to data released by USDA and compiled by the U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF). U.S. beef exports slowed in November, recording the third lowest value of 2023. November lamb exports also trended lower.
November pork exports totaled 258,601 metric tons (mt), up 5% from a year ago and the highest in six months. Export value was up 2% to $737.4 million, the highest...
Paving the Way for Pork at Convenience Stores
Across the U.S., numerous pork products are being showcased in convenience stores, driving demand for high-quality pork and encouraging consumers to purchase pork more frequently.
While pork dominates breakfast offerings in convenience stores (c-stores), how do we get more pork purchased throughout the day? Collaborating closely with c-store partners, NPB is committed to developing new products, overcoming barriers, coordinating potential sales opportunities and moving more product in convenience stores.
Why Convenience Stores?
In a fast-paced world, consumers often opt for on-the-go meals. Creating innovative products specifically...
REPORTER: The Evolving Campaigns for Marketing Pork
This article was originally featured in the WINTER 2024 Edition of Urner Barry’s Reporter magazine.
From the day we saw Mikey bravely decide to try the cereal that none of his friends would dare to try, to Clara Peller muttering “Where’s the beef;” creative marketing campaigns have been at the core of top of-mind awareness for food products for millions of consumers. However, much strategy goes into creative campaigns like the ones mentioned above. At the core of each successful campaign, it’s the existence of key elements such as identifying goals...
REPORTER: Gauging Beef and Pork Supplies in 2024
2023 was a year characterized by extreme financial losses for the nation’s hog producers.
The average return to farrow to finish operations in the first half of the year was minus $34.64 per head, based on research from Iowa State University (ISU). Producers experienced a brief period of profitability over the summer but faced losses once again by the fourth quarter.
The steep losses gripping the hog industry have prompted herd liquidation efforts since...
Major U.S. Winter Storm May Hinder Livestock Movement
Livestock producers and road crews are preparing for a major winter storm that will impact a significant portion of the country this week.
The Plains and Midwest, where the bulk of the nation's cattle and hog-producing regions are located, could experience heavy snowfall and blizzard conditions through Tuesday. Meanwhile, damaging winds and severe thunderstorms are expected for the deep South through the Northeast today into tomorrow, according to the National Weather Service (NWS).
Whiteout conditions due to heavy snowfall combined with severe wind gusts could...
Green Chef Expands Wellness Offerings with New Gut & Brain Health-Focused Recipes
Green Chef, the #1 meal kit for clean eating, announced today a new menu expansion that features Gut & Brain Health recipes. The new science-backed meals are powered by fiber, antioxidants, and healthy fats that aim to support energy and immunity while helping to improve digestion. Both new and existing Green Chef customers can now choose to select a Gut & Brain Health lifestyle preference in their profile, to receive a curated selection of recipes that offer functional benefits.
To help consumers jumpstart and maintain their wellness goals, Green...
Forging Future Leaders: Unveiling the Distinctive Class of the Pork Leadership Institute
The National Pork Producers Council (NPPC) and the National Pork Board (NPB) proudly unveil the dynamic lineup for the Pork Leadership Institute’s (PLI) class of 2024. Each year, the PLI program selects a distinguished group of pork producers, and 2024 is no exception. Collaborating closely with state pork association executives and field representatives, NPPC and NPB have identified 19 outstanding individuals from across the nation to join this esteemed group.
The PLI Class of 2024:
Fratelli Beretta USA, Inc. Recalls Busseto Foods Brand Ready-to-Eat Charcuterie Meat Products
Fratelli Beretta USA, Inc., a Mount Olive, N.J. establishment, is recalling approximately 11,097 pounds of Busseto Foods brand ready-to-eat charcuterie meat products that may be contaminated with Salmonella, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today.
The ready-to-eat (RTE) charcuterie sampler product was produced on October 30, 2023. The following products are subject to recall [view labels]:
Russian Pork Exports to China Gear Up Following Lifted Bans and Bilateral Protocol
In addition to Beijing scrapping regional restrictions for some Russian farm exports, the Russian Federal Service for Veterinary and Phytosanitary Supervision announced its plans to commence pork exports to China in January 2024. This follows a bilateral inspection and quarantine protocol in December 2023, which was signed during the 28th conference between the heads of government of China and Russia.
On 25 December 2023, Abi, a leading Russian processed meat producer, announced the initiation of product exports to China, marking the beginning of this new trade development...
The Retail Rundown: Consumer Sentiment Rises at Year's End
Consumer sentiment spiked at the tail end of 2023, boosted by improved viewpoints of inflation in the new year. According to the University of Michigan’s (U-M) Survey of Consumers, consumer sentiment climbed by 14% in December, reversing the declines from the previous four months.
All age, income, education, geographic, and political identification groups saw gains in sentiment in December, said U-M. The index is just shy of the midpoint between the pre-pandemic reading and the historic low hit in June 2022, added U-M.
The University of Michigan's...
Farmers Concerned About Effects of California's New Animal Welfare Law
A new animal welfare law going into effect in California Jan. 1 that mandates space requirements for pigs, cows and chickens has some livestock farmers on edge.
Proposition 12 prohibits sales in California of pork, veal and eggs from livestock whose confinement doesn't meet certain minimum space rules. Those rules mandate hog pens to be large enough for an animal to turn around.
The U.S. Supreme Court upheld the law, ruling 5-4 that "while the Constitution addresses many weighty issues, the type of pork chops California merchants...
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