Quaker Steak & Lube Introduces New, Limited-Time Menu Items

With the weather heating up and the days getting longer, it can only mean one thing: a much-needed summer is right around the corner. To celebrate, Quaker Steak & Lube is introducing a brand-new "All-American Summer" menu complete with its twists on classic BBQ favorites and seasonal-inspired cocktails.

Here is the food lineup Quaker Steak & Lube will feature on its All-American Summer menu...

Olymel Recalls Ready-to-Eat Ham Products Due to Possible Salmonella Enteritidis Contamination

Olymel S.E.C./L.P., a Quebec, Canada establishment, is recalling approximately 6,804 pounds of ready-to-eat (RTE) ham products that may be contaminated with Salmonella Enteritidis, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced.

The ham items were packaged on November 5, 2020. The following products are subject to recall...

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

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

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

ANALYSIS: Bellies Travel Upward into PEDv Levels

Bellies have done little but march higher since the beginning of 2021. Currently, rekindled interest at foodservice locations as some states relax COVID-19 restrictions, along with...

IHOP Unveils New Steakhouse Premium Bacon

IHOP introduced the brand’s new Steakhouse Premium Bacon, its latest menu innovation on the new Bacon Obsession menu. Steakhouse Premium Bacon is a thick-cut piece of bacon that is five times thicker than IHOP’s regular bacon, fried and finished with a maple glaze.

In addition to the new Steakhouse Premium Bacon, which can be added to any breakfast combo for $1.49 for a limited time, IHOP is introducing a Bacon Obsession menu that offers an array of options including everything from a Steakhouse Premium Bacon Burger to a Maple Bacon Milkshake.

“As guests begin to return to restaurants, we know they’re looking for broadly appealing and familiar comfort foods, as well as new ways to enjoy classic favorites, and bacon is the perfect option that...

February Red Meat Exports Below Last Year, but 2021 Outlook Remains Strong

February exports of U.S. beef and pork remained below the rapid pace established in early 2020, according to data released by USDA and compiled by the U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF). However, exports were consistent with USMEF’s February projections and the federation still expects 2021 beef exports to increase substantially year-over-year, while pork exports are projected to narrowly surpass the 2020 record. ​

Beef exports totaled 103,493 metric tons (mt) in February, down 8% from a year ago, valued at $669.5 million (down 2%). This was due mainly to a decline in variety meat exports, as beef muscle cuts were steady with last year in value at $597.9 million on a volume of 82,530 mt (down 3%). Through February, beef exports were...

ANALYSIS: Cash Cattle Slow to Rise Despite Soaring Beef Prices

Around this time last year, the pandemic drastically altered consumer buying behavior due to dining restrictions and...

Beyond Meat Expands U.S. Retail Distribution within Multiple National and Regional Grocery Chains

Beyond Meat announced several major product expansions within its existing footprint at retailers nationwide. As demand for plant-based meat continues to rise, this increased distribution strengthens the company’s expansive retail presence at approximately 28,000 retail outlets across the U.S. in which consumers have made their preference for Beyond Meat clear: Beyond Meat was the #1 selling plant-based meat brand in the refrigerated category at grocery stores and across foodservice.

The expanded retail product availability includes...

NPPC Applauds the Philippines' Decision to Import More Pork

To combat rising pork prices and stabilize supplies, the Philippine government announced it will provide more market access for pork imports. Securing better access to the Philippines market has been a top, long-term trade priority for the National Pork Producers Council (NPPC).

“Since 2019, the Philippines has been battling African swine fever (ASF), and as a result, domestic production has declined, supplies have tightened, and pork prices have spiked,” said NPPC President Jen Sorenson, communications director for Iowa Select Farms in West Des Moines, Iowa. “While we are saddened by the spread of...

Tyson Foods' Ball Park Introduces Fully Loaded Nacho Cheese Franks

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

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

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

Beyond Meat Opens Manufacturing Facility in China 

Beyond Meat announced the grand opening of its new state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in the Jiaxing Economic & Technological Development Zone (JXEDZ) near Shanghai. As Beyond Meat’s first end-to-end manufacturing facility outside the U.S., the cutting-edge plant in Jiaxing is expected to significantly increase the speed and scale in which the company can produce and distribute its products within the region while also improving Beyond Meat’s cost structure and sustainability of operations.

Designed to serve China’s growing plant-based meat market, the facility will produce Beyond Meat’s innovative range of plant-based pork, beef and poultry products, including Beyond Pork™, the company’s first innovation created specifically for the Chinese market. By producing closer to the consumer and...

ANALYSIS: Pork Ribs Soar into April

Pork ribs traditionally witness a rally starting in April which extends into the summer months as increased demand for grilling reaches its peak. This year however...

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

CME Grain Markets Surge Following Friendly USDA Reports

Grain markets on the CME surged Wednesday following a wave of bullish USDA data in the latest Prospective Plantings and Grain Stocks reports. 

The annual Prospective Plantings report estimated corn planted area for all purposes in 2021 at 91.1 million acres, up less than 1 percent from 2020 and below the average of analysts’ expectations. Meanwhile, soybean planted area for 2021 was estimated at 87.6 million acres, up 5% from last year but below the average trade estimate at around 90.1 million acres. 

The quarterly Grain Stocks Report showed corn stocks at 7.70 billion bushels, down 3% from last year. Soybeans stored in all positions on March 1, 2021 totaled 1.56 billion bushels...

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

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

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

Sonic Introduces New Bacon Jam Cheeseburger for a Limited Time 

SONIC® Drive-In introduces a complete bacon experience with the new Bacon Jam Cheeseburger.

The Bacon Jam Cheeseburger starts with a quarter-pound, 100% pure beef patty, layered with American cheese, crispy bacon and a sweet and savory bacon onion jam, topped with mayo and mustard, all on a toasted brioche bun.

“As the star of the show, our new bacon onion jam is a magical culmination of flavors with bacon, brown sugar and caramelized onions,” said Scott Uehlein, vice president of product innovation and development for SONIC. “Topped with...

APHIS Adds India to List of Regions Affected with African Swine Fever

The United States Department of Agriculture's (USDA) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) added India to the list of regions we consider to be affected with African Swine Fever (ASF.) We took this action on May 13, 2020 when the disease was confirmed and are now publishing notice in the regulations. Pork and pork products from India, including casings, are subject to APHIS import restrictions designed to mitigate the risk of ASF introduction into the United States.

ASF is a devastating, deadly disease of pigs that is not currently found in the United States. USDA's actions will...

Key Takeaways From COVID-19 and the Supply Chain

The pandemic has far-reaching effects throughout the entire supply chain. From processing plant disruptions to shifts in consumer behavior, industry participants are learning how to improve efficiency and reconfigure the workplace.   

During a virtual panel sponsored by Kayem Foods, Inc titled ‘COVID and the Supply Chain: Farm to Distribution’, a group of experts including producer and packer representatives discussed their key learnings for both live animal production and meat processing. 

Panelists included Brad Freking, New Fashion Pork; Colin Woodall, CEO, National Cattlemen’s Beef Association; and KatieRose McCullough, Director, Regulatory and Scientific Affairs, North American Meat Institute. 

McCullough began the panel by reviewing the drastic effects that COVID-19 had on the nation's meat and poultry processing plants. In March 2020, COVID-19 was declared a national emergency. The ability to process cattle and hogs in...

Meat Purchases and Confidence at Record Highs

Americans are buying more beef, pork, poultry, and lamb than ever as increased time at home during the pandemic sent meat grocery sales soaring by 20% (IRI) from 2019 to 2020.

The national analysis released shows that three out of every four Americans agree meat belongs in healthy, balanced diets (up by nearly 20% since 2020), and 94% say they buy meat because it provides high-quality protein.

Meat Institute President and CEO Julie Anna Potts commented...

Niman Ranch Announces Partnership with Fortune Fish & Gourmet

Niman Ranch, a leader in humanely and sustainably raised beef, pork and lamb, announced a new partnership with Fortune Fish & Gourmet, one of the country’s leading processors, distributors and importers of quality seafood, meats and gourmet products. With this new partnership, Niman Ranch has expanded their footprint of geographic availability, now serving sustainability-focused and quality-driven restaurants and select retail outlets in major markets including Detroit, Indianapolis, Chicago, Kansas City, St. Louis, Minneapolis, Omaha, Birmingham and everywhere in between.

“We are excited to partner with Fortune as we bring the finest tasting meat from Niman Ranch to new markets across the country,” shared John Flynn, Niman Ranch’s Vice President of Sales. “We are especially happy to now serve areas of the country in our farmers’ backyards, so they can enjoy the meat they work so hard to raise at some of...

ANALYSIS: February Pork Cold Storage – Highlights and Concerns

Pork in cold storage has been in the spotlight since last Spring when COVID-19 outbreaks resulted in a swath of pork plant closures, and the lack of...

Regulatory and Policy Update: What the Change in Administration Could Mean for the Meat Industry

With the change in administration, participants in the meat industry are closely eyeing what new leadership at USDA and other regulatory bodies could mean for areas including food safety, worker safety, and animal welfare. 

In the virtual 2021 Annual Meat Conference, a panel of leading experts in regulatory and policy issues discussed updates on these factors and what industry participants at all levels might need to be prepared for in 2021. 

Panelists included Casey Gallimore, Director and Scientific Affairs, North American Meat Institue; and Andrew Harig, Vice President, Tax, Trade, Sustainability & Policy Development, FMI.  

Harig kicked off the panel by noting how Washington in March 2021 is drastically different from Washington in March 2020...

African Swine Fever: A Global Update – Ongoing Change in Global Pork Markets in 2021

African swine fever is actively influencing pork markets around the world, creating many areas of uncertainty – mainly in China, but also in Germany – which will not be resolved quickly. The implications of ASF for world pork trade are a major swing factor in global pork markets.

ASF influence on pork markets: China is the most obvious country where ASF continues to have a major influence. Its spread over winter highlights the challenges of managing this disease, and it has complicated the picture of China’s pork supply and demand. The ongoing pressure from ASF’s spread in Germany is also...

Tyson Foods Expanding Case-Ready Meat Production with South Carolina Plant

As part of its strategy to increase production of consumer ready products, Tyson Foods, Inc. is expanding its case-ready meats business by repurposing plant capacity in South Carolina.

The company plans to reopen an idle Tyson-owned facility in Columbia and convert it into a meat-cutting facility that will produce retail ready, portioned packages of sliced, fresh beef and pork, as well as ground beef, for grocery and club stores in the eastern U.S.

“We’re pleased to bring operations back to Columbia and are very grateful for the strong state and local support we’ve received for this project,” said Nate Hodne, senior vice president and general manager of the...

USDA and CFIA Establish Protocol to Minimize Trade Disruptions if ASF Detected in Feral Swine 

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) and the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) have developed a protocol to help ensure bilateral trade will continue if African swine fever (ASF) is detected in feral swine in either country, while still absent from domestic swine.

The intent of the protocol is to protect swine populations in both countries during an outbreak of ASF in feral swine, while minimizing impacts on the trade of live swine, swine products, and other swine commodities. Upon an ASF feral swine detection, all trade between both countries would initially stop. Then, according to the protocol, trade would resume in three, progressive phases with...

ANALYSIS: Elevated Pork Retail Pricing to Start 2021

Retail demand for pork during COVID has remained heightened compared to years past due to the vast majority of foodservice locations closing or...

Beyond Meat Expands Product Distribution 

Beyond Meat announced its latest expansion of product offerings at Walmart. Starting this week, within the approximately 2,400 Walmart locations nationwide in which Beyond Meat products are currently sold, Walmart will be adding Beyond Sausage Hot Italian® to the fresh meat aisle at more than 400 stores as well as expanding the frozen Cookout Classic value-pack to approximately 500 stores.

This increased distribution at Walmart is Beyond Meat’s second in the past year and is part of Beyond Meat’s effort to increase worldwide accessibility to simple, plant-based meat products made without GMOs or bioengineered ingredients. As demand for plant-based meat continues to rise, this increased distribution complements the company’s expansive retail presence at approximately...

January Red Meat Exports Below Year-Ago Levels Amid Transportation, Labor Challenges

U.S. beef and pork exports opened 2021 below the large volumes posted a year ago, according to January data released by USDA and compiled by the U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF).

Beef exports totaled 105,047 metric tons (mt) in January, down 2% from a year ago, while value slipped 3% to $653 million. The decline was due mainly to lower beef variety meat shipments, as muscle cut exports were steady with January 2020 at 81,398 mt, valued at...

US Pork Supply Chain Locked in Limbo as Producers Await Legal Ruling

The US pork supply chain faces significant disruption in 2022, when California’s animal welfare regulations (Proposition 12) take effect. With less than 4% of US sow housing currently able to meet the new standard, Rabobank expects a shortfall in compliant pork to bifurcate the US market, leaving California with a severe pork deficit (and high prices), while generating a surplus in the rest of the US market.

“Producers are reluctant to make the costly investments needed to comply with the new regulation, unless compensated with long-term premium guarantees. Packer processors and end users are unwilling to enter into long-term supply arrangements, given outstanding legal challenges to the California rule and...

NPPC: Bill Addressing Agriculture Labor 'Step In the Right Direction'

Legislation introduced on Wednesday in the U.S. House of Representatives, the Farm Workforce Modernization Act, would reform the H-2A visa program to address the agricultural labor shortage. Among other provisions, it would amend the H-2A program to allow a capped number of visas for farmworkers to work year-round. The following statement is attributable to National Pork Producers Council (NPPC) President Jen Sorenson, communications director for Iowa Select Farms in West Des Moines, Iowa.

“The U.S. pork industry is suffering from a serious labor shortage, negatively impacting farms and processing plants. Unfortunately, the current H-2A visa program is designed for seasonal agriculture, ignoring the needs of...

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

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

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

Cracker Barrel Offers New Prime Rib Heat n' Serve and Creative Basket Options

Cracker Barrel Old Country Store® announced the launch of its Spring Into the Season campaign, featuring a new, homestyle Prime Rib Heat n' Serve meal and Baskets for Every Occasion gift options to make the most of the Easter holiday and life's most memorable milestones. Plus, Cracker Barrel's popular classic Easter Heat n' Serve meal including spiral-sliced sugar-cured ham will be back in two sizes – Feast and Family Dinner.

"Whether you're craving a country feast, refreshing your home for Spring, or planning to give one-of-a-kind Easter baskets, Cracker Barrel is here to offer convenient and delicious ways to make new traditions at home or celebrate with us around one of our tables," said Cracker Barrel Senior Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer Jennifer Tate. "This year, we're especially excited to offer...

ANALYSIS: A Glance at End-January Pork and Beef Cold Storage Stocks

USDA monthly cold storage data released last week showed combined meat and poultry stocks held in the nation's freezer warehouses at the end of January at...

ANALYSIS: Pork Cold Storage Lingers at Low Levels

Total pork cold storage continues to linger around decade lows, creating a tight supply condition and a base layer of price support for a number of...

NAMI Asks Supreme Court to Review Case Against California’s Prop 12

The North American Meat Institute (Meat Institute) filed a petition for a writ of certiorari asking the Supreme Court of the United States to review an earlier ruling of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit in the Meat Institute’s challenge to the constitutionality of California’s Proposition 12: The Farm Animal Confinement Initiative (Prop 12 or the law). The Meat Institute opposes the law because it is unconstitutional and will hurt the nation’s food value chain by significantly increasing costs for producers and consumers. The petition may be found here, appendix here.

“Prop 12 hurts the family on a budget by causing higher prices for pork, veal and eggs, and unfairly punishes livestock producers outside of California by forcing them to...

APHIS is Proposing to Classify Canada as Level One for Bovine Tuberculosis and Brucellosis

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) is proposing to classify Canada as Level One for bovine tuberculosis and brucellosis. This proposed recognition is based on evaluations we have prepared in connection with this action, which we are making available for review and comment.

The Government of Canada requested that APHIS evaluate and classify Canada for bovine tuberculosis and brucellosis. APHIS prepared two evaluations which conclude that Canada meets the conditions to be classified as Level One for both bovine tuberculosis and brucellosis, supporting adding Canada to the web-based list of Level One regions for bovine tuberculosis and the web-based list of Level One regions for...

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

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

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

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

ANALYSIS: 2021 – A Strong Start for Pork Trim

Most pork trimmings have noted a fully adequate to modestly firmer tone throughout the start of 2021 due to strong demand and...

Reports of PRRS and PEDv Pose Latest Challenges to U.S. Hog Producers

Despite being deeply overbought technically, lean hog futures continue to climb. Hog futures hit fresh contract highs across the board in early trading action today. Along with expectations of solid domestic and export demand as China continues to rebuild its hog herd, hog futures appear to be pricing in the possibility of short market-ready supplies heading into the spring and summer.

Market managers and livestock dealers note that producers in western and eastern hog states are currently contending with an outbreak of PRRS (Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome), as well as...

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

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

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

AH Company International Distribution Recalls Pork Products

AH Company International Distribution Inc., a Garden Grove, Calif. firm, is recalling approximately 30,081 pounds of pork pâté products that were imported from an ineligible establishment and distributed in the United States without the benefit of FSIS import re-inspection.

The following heat-treated shelf stable pork pâté items are subject to recall...

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

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

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

ANALYSIS: Counter-seasonal Rally in Pork Belly Values

Pork bellies have noted a substantial gain since the start of the New Year, with a 41% increase from January 4^th. Despite the foodservice end of the industry remaining limited, retail demand has continued to...

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

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

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

VIDEO: Morning Market Roundup Feb 16

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

REPORTER: Q3 Pork: Hot Prices and Frigid Freezer Inventories

With COVID-19 concerns continuing throughout the third quarter and into the fourth quarter of 2020, areas such as boning-line labor, foodservice and recreational activities, cold storage, and production were all affected. The Pork Carcass Cutout noted an uncharacteristic price rally between July and October 2020, increasing by around 31.6%. Looking at the past, the 5-year and 10-year averages saw declines around 12% during this timeframe, while in 2019 the cutout saw a moderate increase of 3.8% for the respective time period...

REPORTER: Starting Out 2021 With a Little Bit of Luck

5, 4, 3, 2, 1... Happy New Year!

Each year we count down the clock to ring in the new year. People all over the world use the time to set new goals and life changes with the hopes of a prosperous and fortunate year ahead. And with the chaos that 2020 brought with it, it wouldn’t be too crazy of an idea for some to follow some old superstitions leading into 2021— like eating pork for luck!

Many cultures throughout the world have different food traditions that they believe to bring them...