ANALYSIS: November Turkey Exports: A Polarized Plunge

Closely aligned with what market input has indicated recently, November’s export tally was relatively subdued with most trade destinations reducing their imports of US turkey when compared to October...

ANALYSIS: Turkey Cold Storage: A Post-Holiday Peek into the Freezers

As turkey market participants eagerly dig through November’s Cold Storage Report, they find that most of the final figures serve to reinforce what they already know: Inventory levels remain constricted...

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...

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...

ANALYSIS: Premium Prices and Reduced Headcount Keep Deboning Lines Seasonally Active…

With frozen bagged turkeys slowly relinquishing the Thanksgiving limelight, most of the attention is once again falling back onto the raw material sector, and with good reason...

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...

ANALYSIS: October Turkey Exports: A Push-Pull Between Volume and Value

Keeping in line with what our day-to-day market dialogue suggests, October’s ending export figures were relatively diverse with some countries displaying a notable year-over-year (YoY) advancement in both volume and value, while others took a less-urgent approach towards securing their Q4 requirements... 

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...

ANALYSIS: Turkey Raw Materials: A Year to Remember

For many participants, 2021 marked the return of some familiar seasonal underpinnings to the turkey raw material sector...

NTF Expands Turkey Smoke Series with Kansas City Barbeque Society

The National Turkey Federation (NTF) is pleased to continue its partnership with the Kansas City Barbeque Society (KCBS) to kick off the third year of the Turkey Smoke Series, which encourages both professional and amateur pitmasters to showcase the versatility and creativity of using turkey on the smoker or grill. The Turkey Smoke Series will feature a turkey category in barbeque competitions across the United States during the 2022 barbeque season. Pitmasters and Contest Organizers love that the Turkey Smoke Series...

ANALYSIS: Turkey White Meat Values: What Seasonality?

As we transition into December, there is little if any doubt that the turkey white meat complex has far outpaced historic seasonal expectations...

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...

Jennie-O Partners with YouTube Star and Philanthropist MrBeast to Give Away 10,000 Turkeys

Jennie-O Turkey Store, one of the largest and most beloved turkey brands in the world, teamed up with MrBeast, one of YouTube’s biggest stars, and his 501c3 organization, Beast Philanthropy, to make this Thanksgiving holiday a little brighter for those in need.

While the event officially started at noon, miles of cars filled with families from the Greenville, N.C., community were already lined up at dawn to ensure they received one of 10,000 free Jennie-O® turkeys. With a value of $266,000...

President Biden Pardons National Thanksgiving Turkey

National Turkey Federation (NTF) Chairman Phil Seger presented the National Thanksgiving Turkey named “Peanut Butter” to President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. today during the National Thanksgiving Turkey Presentation. “Peanut Butter” and his alternate, “Jelly,” received a formal pardon from the president and will now reside on the campus of Purdue University in West Lafayette, Indiana. The National Thanksgiving Turkey Presentation is a time-honored American tradition dating back to 1947.

“It is an honor to participate in this truly unique tradition, and I thank President Biden for welcoming the National Turkey Federation..."

Walmart Serves Up Savings on Thanksgiving Meal

As we approach our second holiday season since the pandemic began, concern over rising costs and short supply has stirred up a conversation centered on uncertainty about the Thanksgiving meal. But amidst it all, here’s what we’re certain of: Walmart is ready. We planned early for Thanksgiving, and we’re setting the table with savings, assortment and convenience.

Five Years of Savings on Thanksgiving Dinner
This year, customers shopping Walmart for their Thanksgiving meal can expect to save more than $14 (or nearly 28%) compared to the national average price reported by the...

This Week in Retail: Where’s the Turkey?

The countdown to Thanksgiving is winding down with only one week to go! More families are planning holiday gatherings this year following the pared-down festivities in 2020 due to the pandemic.

Typically, Thanksgiving is one of the biggest food holidays of the year. For some shoppers, the star of the show—turkey—has been harder to find because of supply chain interruptions that are affecting the production, further processing, and transportation of America’s beloved Thanksgiving centerpiece.

The American Farm Bureau Federation recently released its annual survey of Thanksgiving dinner costs, showing the price for a 16-pound turkey this year at $23.99. That figure is up about $1.50 per pound or 24% from last year. According to AFBF, a Thanksgiving feast for ten is $53.31 or less than $6.00 per person, up 14% from last year’s average of $46.90...

ANALYSIS: Whole Turkeys: Looking Past the Holiday Frenzy

With just over a week to go before Thanksgiving is upon us, market participants and industry observers have turkey on the mind...

NTF to Welcome National Thanksgiving Turkey and Alternate to Nation’s Capital

The National Turkey Federation (NTF) will host a press conference, including a livestream, at the Willard InterContinental to welcome two Indiana turkeys to the nation’s capital. This press conference will be held the day prior to the annual National Thanksgiving Turkey Presentation at the White House. NTF Chairman Phil Seger will welcome the turkeys to Washington, D.C. and announce the names of the turkeys. This great American Thanksgiving tradition kicking off the holiday season dates to 1947 with President Harry Truman.

Who: NTF Chairman Phil Seger, the prospective...

It's Turkey Time! 7-Eleven Rolls Out the Thanksgiving Turkey Sub

7-Eleven, Inc. is getting into the turkey day spirit with the rollout of its Thanksgiving Turkey Sub. Great for a lunch, midday snack, or as a main dish on friendsgiving, the Thanksgiving Turkey Sub is now available for a limited time only at participating 7-Eleven stores nationwide.

Packed with shaved Butterball turkey, sharp white cheddar cheese and cranberry mayo, this festive sub marks the debut of 7-Eleven's signature stuffing-flavored roll. You read that right, the roll is stuffing flavored. America's largest convenience retailer knows...

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...

10 Reasons to Smoke Your Holiday Turkey

Looking for ways to add some flair to your holiday fowl? Why not put it on the grates for a smoke bath? We know that there are sticklers for a traditional Thanksgiving turkey, and there’s nothing wrong with that. But for those who are interested in thinking outside the oven, we have compiled our top 10 reasons to smoke your holiday turkey.

1. Taste
This one should be obvious, smoked turkey is delicious! The compounds released through your smoker’s combustion will add rich roasted notes to the turkey as it soaks up those...

The Honey Baked Ham Company® Has You Covered this Thanksgiving (and Friendsgiving)

Calling all out-of-practice hosts, The Honey Baked Ham Company® has you covered for all your holiday gatherings with simple ways to serve, gift and shop during the festive season. From delicious holiday meals with convenient ordering options to unique host gifts, HoneyBaked® is dedicated to helping everyone spend less time in the kitchen and more time reuniting with their loved ones this Friendsgiving and Thanksgiving.

HoneyBaked's holiday meals, complete with a brand-new brunch option, are fully-cooked and undeniably delicious. They include...

Meijer Touts Low Turkey Prices to Help Families Celebrate Thanksgiving

Amid growing concerns about the supply and price of turkeys this year, Meijer is hanging its hat on value and well-stocked birds.

Customers can purchase Meijer brand frozen turkeys for 33 cents per pound through Nov. 27.

Additionally, Meijer is carrying a wide array of small and large birds to accommodate every gathering size. The retailer is offering a vast selection of turkeys; including fresh, frozen, organic and antibiotic-free birds to suit every household's preferences. Meijer brand fresh turkeys cost 99 cents per pound and Butterball fresh turkeys...

ANALYSIS: It’s a Bird, It’s a Plane, It’s a Consumer-Packaged Turkey?

In last week’s analysis, we dove into the seasonally low cold storage holdings of frozen whole-body turkeys and the lack of spot availability as we inch closer towards Thanksgiving...

The Butterball Turkey Talk-Line Opens Today, Celebrating 40 Years

The Butterball Turkey-Talk Line is now officially open for the holiday season, marking 40 years as an authority on all things Thanksgiving. Since 1981, the Butterball Turkey Talk-Line experts have offered advice and tried and true tips for cooking a perfect turkey to millions of holiday hosts, initially by phone, and now including text, online chat, social media, and Alexa.

Experience the interactive Multichannel News Release here: https://www.multivu.com/players/English/8960431-butterball-introduces-turkey-talk-line-taste-kitchen-inspire-thanksgiving-hosts/

"The Butterball Turkey Talk-Line has become a Thanksgiving institution, and we're back in our 40th year to help new..."

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...

ANALYSIS: Frozen Hen Holdings: How Low Can They Go?

Since the outset of the pandemic, buyers have found themselves struggling to consistently cover whole bird needs... 

HelloFresh’s Thanksgiving Feast Returns

HelloFresh, the world’s leading meal kit company, is bringing back its annual Thanksgiving Feast, providing a delicious, stress-free way to celebrate everyone’s favorite holiday together. The specialty box features all of the ingredients and step-by-step directions to cook two chef-curated entrée options – Traditional Turkey or Beef Tenderloin – plus an assortment of sides, a decadent dessert, and an optional appetizer starting at $16.99 per serving.

- Traditional Turkey ($169.89 + $8.99 shipping): Serves 8-10 and features Roast Turkey with a Garlic-Herb Butter Rub and Classic Gravy. Sides include Creamy...

Natural Grocers® Now Taking Reservations for the Humanely Raised Thanksgiving Turkeys

Every October, as the leaves start to fall and the air starts to cool, Natural Grocers® kicks off its Thanksgiving turkey pre-order season at each of its 162 stores across 20 states and on its turkey reservations website www.naturalgrocers.com/turkeys. By securing an early reservation, customers can rest easy knowing they have purchased the perfect variety and size of turkey to help make their Thanksgiving celebration special this year.

As grocery industry leaders in animal welfare standards, Natural Grocers exclusively partners with...

ANALYSIS: Turkey Exports: It’s a Matter of Perspective

Although the majority of our top turkey export destinations continue to register year-over-year (YoY) advancements in volume, the cumulative figures through the end of August tell a slightly different story...

Butterball Introduces the Turkey Talk-Line Taste Kitchen to Inspire Thanksgiving Hosts

Butterball, the largest producer of turkey products in the U.S. and an authority on all things Thanksgiving, is excited to introduce the launch of the Butterball Turkey Talk-Line Taste Kitchen, designed to inspire hosts to cook with confidence this Thanksgiving. After assisting an influx of first-time hosts in 2020, the Butterball Turkey Talk-Line Taste Kitchen was developed to help hosts of all levels find the inspiration they need to pull off a successful Thanksgiving while giving them new vision for their menus...

Jennie-O Thanksgiving Hotline Opens Nov. 1

Jennie-O Turkey Store, one of the most beloved turkey brands in the world, today announced the return of its 1-800-TURKEYS hotline, as well as additional helpful tools and resources for consumers to help with planning their turkey day meals.

Starting Nov. 1, Jennie-O consumer-engagement experts are available to help ease the stress around holiday meal planning. To make it even more convenient to get those holiday meal prep questions answered, the company’s experts are reachable in many ways, including: the company’s 1-800-TURKEYS hotline...

REPORTER: Turkey Market is Soaring, Supply Indicators Leave Little Doubt Why

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

Day-to-day market dialogue, along with the upward appreciation of items such as consumer packed whole birds and breasts, breast meat and parts, continue to underscore this year’s strained supply-side scenario within the turkey complex. While ancillary factors such as plant labor complications, some of the steepest seasonal feed costs realized in the past seven years, and robust, pipelinefilling demand patterns, are all playing a contributing role in the current market environment...

ANALYSIS: Hard to Turn Your Back on Breast Meat

Despite the hum of Thanksgiving-induced anticipation surrounding whole birds, turkey market participants can’t seem to pull their eyes away from the whole muscle white meat complex, and with good reason...

Blue Apron Brings Back Thanksgiving Offering in Time for Holiday Planning

Blue Apron is bringing back its popular Thanksgiving menu available to order starting on October 11, just in time for the holiday season. The offering includes a wide variety of options for customers to build a dinner experience that fits their holiday plans and dietary needs, whether it’s a cozy dinner for two or a friendsgiving for up to eight, all with the ease and convenience that comes from cooking with Blue Apron.

“Thanksgiving is a holiday that can be filled with great traditions and delicious meals..."

ANALYSIS: Turkey Production Expansionary Expectations Not in the Signals Sent

Last week our analysis focused on the impact variables such as feed costs, poult placements and, ultimately, head count, had and are having on the valuation of breast meat...

Jennie-O Turkey Store Shares 2021 Thanksgiving Trends And Predictions

Jennie-O Turkey Store, one of the most beloved turkey brands in the world, today announced its Thanksgiving survey results. The surprising answers revealed how people across the country feel about the upcoming Thanksgiving holiday, how they plan to celebrate, the dishes they find most intimidating and even how many pounds of food a single person plans to eat during the meal. The survey of 2,000 consumers was conducted by OnePoll on behalf of Jennie-O.

CELEBRATION: To Be or Not To Be (In Person)
- The majority of those polled...

The Executive Conference is Back and Better Than Ever This Year—and There's Still Time to Register!

We're bringing you in-person networking, impactful content, and a hard-hitting lineup of speakers, including the one and only Bo Jackson!

Urner Barry’s Executive Conference is just a few weeks away and there’s still time to register and make your way to Las Vegas for this exclusive event!

This year’s show is at The Venetian in Las Vegas, September 26-28^th. Yes, we are LIVE and in-person this year and we know you are anxious to get back down to business and meet with fellow colleagues to network and learn at the industry’s most prestigious event!

The past 18 months have brought countless challenges and disrupted market dynamics more than ever before. Our industry has...

ANALYSIS: July Turkey Exports: Less Is More

As our day-to-day market canvassing efforts have suggested, July’s turkey export figures were a mixed bag with some countries increasing...

CBP Seizes Over 300 Pounds of Pork Bologna and Turkey Ham at the Paso Del Norte Border Crossing

U.S. Customs and Border Protection Agriculture Specialists assigned to the Paso Del Norte Border Crossing seized 320 pounds of pork bologna and 30 pounds of turkey ham Thursday.

The discovery was made shortly after 6:00 a.m., when a 20-year-old United States citizen, resident of El Paso, Texas, presented himself for inspection. A CBP officer observed what appeared to be meat products hidden in the back seat of a 2012 Honda Odyssey driven by the individual.

A negative declaration for...

ANALYSIS: Turkey Cold Storage Holdings Continue Year-over-Year Thaw

The latest release of July’s Cold Storage Report underscores what many players in the turkey industry already know: That supplies are tight...

ANALYSIS: Tallying up Turkey Production

In light of seasonally stout performance, this week we thought a dive into the production side of the equation to investigate how it is influencing the '21 market was in order...

Jennie-O Launches New Turkey Barbacoa Innovation for Foodservice

Jennie-O Turkey Store announced the company's newest, recipe ready turkey innovation that is geared toward foodservice operators – a fully cooked turkey barbacoa seasoned and marinated with paprika, garlic and guajillo chili pepper spices. This lean turkey protein is on trend with consumers who are seeking more flavorful, nutritious menu options.

"Our new turkey barbacoa is an exciting product that foodservice operators can just heat and shred," said Katie Lynch, associate brand manager for Jennie-O Foodservice. "We were intentional about the use of guajillo chili pepper for seasoning..."

ANALYSIS: June Turkey Exports Run the Gamut

Although four of our largest trade partners continue to display encouraging year-over-year (YoY) advancements in both volume and value, the most recent monthly data through the end of June was a little more mixed...

ANALYSIS: Turkey Raw Materials Continuing to Ride Updraft

Following last year’s lack of seasonal underpinnings, marketers on the raw material side of the business are breathing a collective sigh of relief thanks in large part to what has, so far, amounted to be stout performance for whole muscle white meats and the related trim lines...

Quick 'N Eat Angus Beef Patties and New Burger Product Lines Now Sold in U.S. Walmart Locations

Quick 'N Eat is introducing authentically flame-grilled beef patties to frozen, fully cooked meat aisles at Walmart locations across the country.

The rapidly growing producer of affordable, high-quality beef products has also extended its products within the fully cooked burger category, including an all-new turkey burger. Now available at...

ANALYSIS: Turkey Cold Storage: Hard to Sell from an Empty Wagon

After a great deal of anticipation, the latest release of USDA’s Cold Storage Report lends credence to what many participants have been suspecting, especially those who have been following Urner Barry’s Weekly Cold Storage Estimate...

Sweet Earth Foods Debuts New Plant-Based Breakfast Bowls and Reformulated Deli Slices Nationwide

Plant-based foods innovator Sweet Earth Foods is announcing the nationwide launch of their new heat-and-eat Breakfast Bowls and reformulated, ready-to-eat Deli Slices. As consumers return to on-the-go busy lifestyles, these prepared meal and plant-based protein offerings provide quick plant-based solutions.

The three new Sweet Earth Breakfast Bowls meet this demand and are inspired by classic regional scrambles, all while offering between 17 - 20 grams of plant protein and three to five grams of fiber in every bowl. New flavors found in the frozen meals section include...

ANALYSIS: Frozen Turkeys Steal The Seasonal Show

It’s no secret that the majority of turkey lines are continuing to enjoy a strong showing here in early Q3. While recent market dialogue and trade activity has unquestionably gravitated towards...

OZO Expands Line of Plant-Based Proteins in Frozen and Fresh Aisle

Colorado-based Planterra Foods is expanding its portfolio of plant-based products in the fresh and frozen category by launching a variety of new items for families to have more options of convenient plant-based meals at home. Available now, consumers can add the OZO™ Frozen Nuggets (10.6 oz), plant-based Chicken Patties (4, 2.5 oz patties), and Italian Style Meatballs (12-1 oz meatballs) as well as fresh Smokehouse Burgers (2-4 oz patties) and plant-based Ground Turkey (12 oz) to their plant-based rotation of OZO™ meals.

These new OZO™ products offer a spin on plant-based proteins in the categories of chicken, turkey and beef, with bold flavors for delicious meat-free possibilities stored...

ANALYSIS: Turkey Thigh Meat and Pork Ham Quotations Reaching an Inflection Point?

With Q3 in full swing, further processors, especially those who reside south of the border, are paying particularly close attention to the price relationship between boneless pork hams and turkey thigh meat...

Prestage Farms to Construct $150 Million Processing Facility in South Carolina

The South Carolina division of poultry and pork firm Prestage Farms is set to make a $150 million investment to construct a new processing facility in Kershaw County.

The new plant, located at the Governor’s Hill Industrial Park in Camden, will create 292 new jobs and will be the second facility in the county for Prestage.

The South Carolina Department of Commerce said the new operation will process poultry products using state-of-the-art technology and high levels of automation. The facility will utilize...

ANALYSIS: May’s Turkey Trade Volume Underscores Global Economic Revival

By just about every measure, the latest turkey export figures bring with them signs of encouragement for turkey marketers, as well as...

Subway Debuts Largest Menu Update in Brand's History

Subway restaurants announced the biggest changes in the brand's history, making improvements to almost every core menu item and introducing important digital upgrades that elevate the guest experience. The Eat Fresh Refresh™ arrives in U.S. restaurants nationwide on July 13, and is marked with unprecedented moments, including participating Subway restaurants across the country closing for a Refresh Break and a one million sub sandwich giveaway to encourage people to come see and taste the changes.

Starting on July 13, the Eat Fresh Refresh comes to life in all U.S. Subway restaurants. The more than 20 menu updates include...

Poultry Industry and OSHA Partner on Safe + Sound Week

The U.S. Poultry & Egg Association (USPOULTRY), National Chicken Council (NCC) and National Turkey Federation (NTF) are pleased to again partner with the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) for Safe + Sound Week, August 9 – 15. Safe + Sound Week is a nationwide effort to raise awareness and understanding of the value of safety and health programs that include management leadership, worker participation and a systematic approach to finding and correcting hazards in the workplace.

Safe + Sound Week is co-sponsored by the National Safety Council, American Industrial...

Market Trends to Watch Ahead of Independence Day

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.

Access the latest UB Market Briefing HERE.  

ANALYSIS: Fresh and Frozen Turkey Drum Quotations at a Mid-Year Crossroads

As we round the corner to Q3, turkey marketers have a pep in their step and a glimmer in their eye thanks to the admirable trade environment that they’ve enjoyed throughout...

Chaz Wilson Re-elected Chairman of The Board at USAPEEC 

Chaz Wilson, head of international sales for Pilgrim’s USA in Greeley, Colo., was re-elected chairman of the board of the USA Poultry & Egg Export Council (USAPEEC) for 2021-22 during the 2021 USAPEEC Annual Meeting in Nashville.

Wilson, who has served on the board of directors since 1998, will head the board, which sets policy and provides direction to USAPEEC, an organization whose mission is to promote and increase exports of U.S. chicken, turkey, duck, and egg products worldwide.

Wilson along with the entire executive committee was reelected by the membership due to the extraordinary circumstances caused by the global pandemic which...

ANALYSIS: Turkey Cold Storage Reductions Coincide with Stout Market Performance

Over the past several weeks, we've covered a number of factors which are playing an influential role in constricting the supply of just about every line within the turkey complex...

Freshly Introduces Multi-Serve Proteins and Sides for Mealtime Shortcuts

Freshly Inc., a leading fresh-prepared meal delivery service in the U.S., announced the launch of Proteins & Sides, new menu items offering customers multi-serve portions of eight signature Freshly fan favorites. The chef-cooked, ready-to-heat proteins and side dishes are designed to mix and match for meal customization and use for cooking shortcuts. Perfect to share or provide for multiple meals for one, the new offering gives consumers a time-saving solution to simplify meal prep and supplement Freshly weekly meal plans.

Developed in response to evolving consumer habits coupled with customer feedback on the desire for more options and flexibility when it comes to mealtime, the addition of Proteins & Sides to the menu reinforces...

Summer is Almost Here and UB Has the Scoop on Market Trends Heading into MDW

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.

Access the latest UB Market Briefing HERE...  

ANALYSIS: Turkey Cold Storage Lends Credence to Seasonally Strong Market Environment

The most recent cold storage figures for the month of April generally fall in line with the seasonally strong undertone exhibited by just about every line within the turkey complex...

Applegate Announces Partnership with The New York Yankees

Applegate has been named a Proud Partner of the New York Yankees. As a Proud Partner, Applegate will be stepping up to the plate with 100% natural deli meats, pizza toppings, and snacking options.

"The Yankees have such a rich history of being leaders in the league, with the highest of standards, and a drive to be the best," said Nicole Glenn, Applegate Vice President, Brand Strategy and Innovation. "We strive for similar standards and share a mutual drive at Applegate, which is why...

ANALYSIS: Turkey--Gauging Whole Bird Price Momentum

Although white meats and parts have received a great deal of attention in recent weeks as refreshed demand patterns and supply shortages carry spot prices higher, frozen whole birds have been...

ANALYSIS: Thigh Meat and Ham Relationship Perseveres Through Thick and Thin

Amidst the various challenges that 2021 has presented so far, market participants are taking notice if not solace in what appears to be...

Jennie-O Turkey Store Announces Launch of Jennie-O Turkey Burger Blends

Jennie-O Turkey Store announced the launch of a new product called Jennie-O® turkey burger blends. Made from a combination of white meat turkey, black beans, whole grain rice and pepitas, these carefully selected and nutritious ingredients offer consumers the combined benefits of lean, meat-based and plant-forward protein (15g) and fiber (5g) in one tasty turkey burger.

"We know that people are becoming increasingly interested in adding more plant-focused...

ANALYSIS: Turkey Buyers Climb the Rungs of the Seasonal White Meat Ladder

Despite the unique set of challenges that 2021 has presented to the turkey industry, market participants take solace in the fact that...

ANALYSIS: Turkey Production and Cold Storage-As Goes One

In recent months, the turkey complex has experienced a surprising level of price volatility, most of which has pointed towards the upside...

Hungry Planet Closes $25 Million Series A Funding Round

Hungry Planet a leading plant-based meat company headquartered in St. Louis, Missouri, announced that it closed an oversubscribed $25 million Series A financing round. This round of funding will be used to build capacity for Hungry Planet’s breakthrough plant-based meats, and accelerate growth across retail, foodservice and e-commerce channels, both domestically and internationally.

Post Holdings led the round, joined by Singaporean investment group TRIREC, and included other leading plant-forward investors. With the market value of plant-based meat expected to reach $35.4 billion by 2027, Hungry Planet determined that now is the time to...

ANALYSIS: Commodity Prices Surging Higher; Is This the Next Supercycle?

Commodity prices have moved higher coming out of the initial phase of the pandemic with the price trough seen in...

ANALYSIS: Turkey Production: Changing With the Times

The turkey industry has become accustomed to not getting too comfortable in their own shoes, at least for very long. Counting on external change to...

FSIS Issues Public Health Alert for Raw Ground Turkey Products Linked to Salmonella Hadar Illness

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) is issuing a public health alert for approximately 211,406 pounds of raw ground turkey products, produced by Plainville Brands, LLC, a Pennsylvania establishment, due to concerns the products may have caused Salmonella Hadar illness. A recall was not requested because it is believed that the products are no longer available for consumers to purchase.

FSIS is concerned that some product may be frozen and in consumers’ freezers. Consumers who have purchased these products are urged not to consume them. These products should be thrown away or returned to the place of purchase. Retail locations that may...

ANALYSIS: Turkey Thigh Meats Get a Leg Up

With springtime now in full swing, seasonal outreach is beginning to develop...

Jimmy Dean Launches New Breakfast Nuggets and Skillets 

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

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

U.S. Top Chicken and Turkey Exporter to China

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

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

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

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

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

ANALYSIS: Turkey Cold Storage: Lending Credence to the Strong Market Climate

The latest release of February’s Cold Storage Report further validates the strong seasonal performance that most key lines within the turkey complex have exhibited...

ANALYSIS: Frozen Tom Breast Meat Values Buck Seasonal Norm

It isn't every year that the topic of frozen tom breast meat catches the eye of market participants this early in the "season"...

NTF Partners with Kansas City Barbeque Society to Continue Turkey Smoke Series

To encourage both professional and amateur pitmasters to showcase the versatility and creativity of using turkey on the smoker or grill, the National Turkey Federation (NTF) is pleased to partner with the Kansas City Barbeque Society (KCBS) to kick off the second year of the Turkey Smoke Series. The Turkey Smoke Series will incorporate a turkey category into barbeque competitions throughout the United States during the 2021 barbeque season, adding thousands of dollars in extra prize money and bragging rights among pitmaster competitors at numerous KCBS-sanctioned barbeque contests. Winning recipes will also be featured across KCBS and NTF digital platforms.

“The inaugural year of the Turkey Smoke Series was very well received by competition pitmasters, contest organizers and Certified Barbeque Judges,” said Emily Detwiler, Chief Executive Officer of the Kansas City Barbeque Society. “Competition pitmasters from both the Master and Backyard Series enjoyed the creativity and...

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

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

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

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

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

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