FMI Welcomes USDA Final Rule on SNAP Stocking Requirements

FMI – The Food Industry Association today responds to the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) final rule on SNAP stocking standards, recognizing the agency’s efforts to expand access to a broader variety of nutritious foods for families participating in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) while supporting retailers’ ongoing commitment to serving communities nationwide. FMI Chief Public Policy Officer Jennifer Hatcher offered the following statement:

“FMI members remain deeply committed to supporting the health and nutrition goals of all customers, including SNAP participants. As always, our focus is on working closely with...

Starboard Delivers Letter to Lamb Weston

Starboard Value LP (together with its affiliates, “Starboard”), a significant stockholder of Lamb Weston Holdings Inc. ("Lamb Weston" or the "Company") (NYSE: LW), today announced that it has delivered a letter to the Company’s Board of Directors.

The full text of Starboard's letter to the Company can be viewed here.

USDA Requires SNAP Authorized Retailers to Carry More Real Food

Today, the US Department of Agriculture (USDA) published the final rule regarding stocking standards for retailers participating in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), ensuring a broader variety of nutritious food is available to SNAP participants at authorized retailers across the country.

Since the beginning of the Trump Administration, the Food and Nutrition Service has taken action on nearly 3,200 retailers regarding current stocking standards, either for failing to meet them upon application or failing to maintain them once authorized. The latter results in disqualification from accepting SNAP benefits.

March Pork Exports Third Largest on Record; Beef Variety Meat Value Reaches New High

March exports of U.S. pork were among the largest on record, concluding a very strong first quarter, according to data released by USDA and compiled by the U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF). While March beef exports were below last year – largely due to the ongoing lockout by China – the value of beef variety meat shipments reached a new monthly high, surpassing the previous record from January.

Pork exports totaled 285,567 metric tons (mt) in March, up 6% from a year ago, the largest in five years and the third largest on record. Export value increased 4% to $803.2 million, the...

Vital Farms Reports First Quarter 2026 Financial Results

Vital Farms (Nasdaq: VITL), a Certified B Corporation that offers a range of ethically produced foods nationwide, today reported financial results for its first quarter ended March 29, 2026.

Financial highlights for the first quarter ended March 29, 2026, compared to the first quarter ended March 30, 2025, include:

• Net Revenue increased 15.4% to $187.2 million, compared to $162.2 million
• Gross Margin of 28.3%, compared to 38.5%
• Net Loss of $1.5 million, compared to Net Income of $16.9 million
• Net Loss per Diluted Share...

Shake Shack Appoints Michelle Hook as Chief Financial Officer

Shake Shack Inc. ("Shake Shack" or the "Company") (NYSE:SHAK) today announced the appointment of Michelle Hook as the Company's Chief Financial Officer, effective May 11, 2026. Ms. Hook joins Shake Shack's executive leadership team and will be responsible for leading financial operations across the Company, including accounting and treasury, financial planning and analysis, tax, investor relations and external reporting.

Ms. Hook brings more than two decades of financial and operational leadership experience in the restaurant industry, with a proven track record of scaling growth companies and building high-performing teams...

ANALYSIS: New World Screwworm Cases Extend Into Northern Mexico

According to SENASICA data compiled by Expana, the New World Screwworm situation in Mexico continues to show a gradual northward movement, with recent cases reaching as close as roughly 140 to 160 miles from the US border. In Nuevo León, the first case was reported in early April, initially detected in a canine host, and has since increased to 21 active cases. Coahuila followed toward the end of April, with its first confirmed case now reaching 4 active cases. These developments come nearly one year after feeder cattle exports to the US were suspended in May, with a brief reopening attempt in July later paused, keeping trade restrictions in place as cases continue to appear in northern states.

ANALYSIS: Turkey Cold Storage Hits Record Seasonal Low Despite Varied Category Performance

The volume of total turkey in cold storage still remains at a record seasonal low, coming in 8.9% below March of last year which marked the previous seasonal low. This was led by the whole bird and breast categories. The month-over-month (MOM) change in inventories followed seasonal trends for most categories, with the exception of MST, which saw a MOM decline compared to a 5-year average MOM increase.

Whole birds and breasts both had a greater MOM increase than the 5-year average but remained well below last year. Whole birds saw a 16.4% year-over-year (YOY) decline to mark a new record seasonal low at 118.2 million pounds. While demand hasn’t been particularly robust, production has been extremely limited...

GEN Korean BBQ Launches Costco Roadshow Series, Marking Next Phase of Retail Expansion

GEN Restaurant Group, Inc. ("GEN" or the "Company") (Nasdaq: GENK), operator of GEN Korean BBQ, the largest full-service Korean BBQ restaurant chain in the United States, today announced the launch of a Costco roadshow demonstration series. Over the course of two months, GEN will bring its signature marinated, ready-to-cook meats directly to Costco members through in-store sampling events at several regions nationwide.

This launch represents the next chapter in GEN’s growing retail presence, and a significant step toward permanent placement in Costco’s freezer aisles. 

Minerva Foods Reports R$ 13.4 Billion in Net Revenue in the First Quarter of 2026

MINERVA S.A. (BM&FBOVESPA: BEEF3 | OTC - Nasdaq International: MRVSY), a leading South American exporter of fresh beef and beef by-products, with operations in the processed foods segment as well, has announced its results for the first quarter of 2026. The financial and operational information presented below is reported in Brazilian reais (R$), in accordance with BRGAAP and IFRS (International Financial Reporting Standards).

In the first quarter of 2026, net revenue totaled R$ 13.4 billion, up by 19.8% over the same period of the previous year. In the last 12 months ending in March 2026 (LTM1Q26), consolidated net revenue totaled R$ 57 billion, a record level on an annual basis and an increase of 49.8% when compared to the same period of the previous year...

The Beef Renaissance is Here: Niman Ranch Brings Steakhouse Sizzle to the Bacon Aisle

With American beef demand surging, Niman Ranch is giving "the most important meal of the day" a major promotion with the debut of its 100% Grass-Fed and Grass-Finished Beef Bacon. The bacon is now available at Whole Foods Markets across the South, Mid-Atlantic and Midwest regions.

As 2026 becomes the year of "Purposeful Protein," shoppers are increasingly looking for savory, nutrient-dense breakfast options. Niman Ranch is meeting this shift by utilizing the premium beef navel—a cut prized by chefs for its...

Com. Miller Applauds Expanded New World Screwworm Defense Operations Along Texas-Mexico Border

AUSTIN - Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller today praised the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (USDA APHIS) for expanding New World screwworm sterile fly dispersal operations farther north along the Texas-Mexico border, calling it a critical step to protect Texas livestock, wildlife, pets, and the people who care for them.

The expanded dispersal zone now reaches as far north as Maverick County near Eagle Pass, strengthening the biological barrier against the deadly, flesh-eating parasite...

Dine Brands Starts 2026 With Higher Revenue and Steady Sales Growth at Applebee’s and IHOP

Dine Brands Global kicked off fiscal 2026 with higher revenue and improved comparable sales at Applebee’s, while holding the line on guidance for the full year as it continues to invest in dual-branded development and company-owned restaurants.

The parent of Applebee’s Neighborhood Grill + Bar, IHOP and Fuzzy’s Taco Shop reported first-quarter revenue of $225.2 million, up from $214.8 million a year earlier. The increase was mainly tied to higher sales from company-owned restaurants...

Instacart Hits Milestone Quarter With Record Sales and Rising Profits

Instacart topped $10 billion in quarterly gross transaction value for the first time in the first quarter, as order growth and advertising gains helped lift revenue and profit.

The grocery technology company reported first-quarter GTV of $10.29 billion, up 13% from a year earlier, with orders rising 10% to 91.2 million. Total revenue increased 14% to $1.02 billion, including $733 million in transaction revenue and $286 million in advertising and other revenue, which rose 16%.

GAAP net income...

RBI Delivers Solid Q1 with Rising Sales and Earnings

Restaurant Brands International posted a strong first quarter of 2026, driven by steady sales growth and improved operating performance, according to its official PR Newswire release.

The company reported that consolidated system-wide sales grew 6.2% year-over-year, with international markets standing out at 11.1% growth, highlighting continued global demand.

Momentum at the store level also improved, as comparable sales accelerated to 3.2%, including gains of 5.8% at Burger King US and 5.7% internationally.

Revenue and profitability both increased compared to last year. Total revenues...

ANALYSIS: Australia’s April 2026 Beef Exports Reach Fourth-Highest on Record Under Safeguard Pressure

Australia’s beef export momentum showed no signs of slowing in April 2026, with year-to-date (YTD) shipments climbing to 506,142 metric tons (MT), according to the latest data from Australia's Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF).

While April’s monthly volume of 140,943 MT retreated 6.0% from the record high set in March, it remained 10.8% higher than April 2025.

This performance cements the strongest start to a calendar year on record and represents the fourth-highest monthly volume ever recorded.

This surge continues to be driven by a structural supply deficit in the United States (US)...

ANALYSIS: Asia’s Beef Trade H2 2026 Outlook - Navigating the Redirection of Supply  

The momentum in the Australian beef trade is pivoting following a record-breaking opening quarter.  

While exports surged by 17.4% year-on-year (YOY) in Q1 2026, the focus is no longer on chasing volume but on securing alternative markets.  

This transition was compelled by a rapid sprint for the China safeguard quota, which saw 50% of the annual limit exhausted in just 85 days.  

Exporters are now entering a tactical redirection phase to stay ahead of the looming tariff cliffs in both China and Korea...

The Retail Rundown: May Ignites Grocery’s Biggest Early-Season Rush

Following a long and unpredictable winter, May finally ushers in its first run of sunny days, signaling a noticeable change in consumer behavior.

Shoppers are ready to head outside and start grilling. For grocers, this seasonal shift creates a key opportunity, driven by a lineup of high-impact shopping occasions.

At the start of the month, Cinco de Mayo kicks off one of the first notable spikes in spending. The occasion encourages shoppers to trade up to fresh guacamole kits, taco fixings, and ready-to-heat meals, driven by a...

Teamsters Secure Contract at Smithfield Foods

More than 300 members of Teamsters Local 822 in Smithfield, Virginia, overwhelmingly ratified a strong new contract with Smithfield Foods. The workers produce ham and bacon products sold nationwide under Smithfield-owned brands that include Armour, Gwaltney, and Eckrich.

Under the contract, workers will receive a 12 percent wage increase, along with back pay. The deal also blocks proposed health care cost increases and guarantees pay during certain non-disciplinary absences...

Summer in the Cities Buyers Mission Returns in August Across Three US Markets

Food Export USA will bring back its flagship Summer in the Cities Buyers Mission on August 10–14, 2026, with stops in Detroit, Michigan; Indianapolis, Indiana; and Albany, New York.

The multi-city event will connect small and midsize US food and agricultural suppliers with international buyers from nearly 20 global regions through pre-scheduled one-on-one meetings, retail tours and company profiles designed to accelerate business development.

Teresa Miller, Chief Program and Partnership Officer at Food Export USA, said the event is designed to create...

USDA: Announcing Partnership with Auburn University to Implement Marketing Tours for US Poultry

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Foreign Agricultural Service is awarding a $112,500.00 agreement to Auburn University to design and host a 2-week marketing program in the United States to educate international buyers from the Eurasian region on the superiority of U.S. poultry meat and arrange business connections between U.S. industry and Georgian buyers.

This award is being made following a competitive application process under an Interagency Agreement with State Department’s Office of the Coordinator of U.S. Assistance to Europe and Eurasia to advance American agricultural interests...

Lottie’s Meats Lands on Shelf at Target

Lottie’s Meats, a sister-founded pork sausage brand, announced its expansion into Target stores across Northern California, Washington and Oregon. The brand was founded by Cassie and Chelsey Maschhoff and is rooted in their six-generation Illinois family farm. The launch marks the brand’s largest retail expansion to date and builds on Lottie’s presence in more than 300 existing retailers and restaurants nationwide.

At Target, the assortment includes all four of Lottie’s pork sausages in the refrigerated meat aisle, including two fully cooked sausages—The Lottie...

KFC Expands $10 Tuesday Into Weeklong Bucket Deal and Launches New Sauces

KFC is expanding its value platform by turning its longtime $10 Tuesday promotion into a weekday “Bucket of the Day” program, giving customers a different $10 bucket meal each weekday as the chain looks to drive traffic and dinnertime relevance.

The new lineup includes 24-piece nuggets on Monday and Friday, 8-piece drums and thighs on Tuesday, 10 wings on Wednesday, and 8 tenders on Thursday, all priced at $10.

“Figuring out what's for dinner is something...

Saladworks Adds Warm Roasted Chicken and Fire-Grilled Steak to Create Your Own Lineup

Saladworks, the leading create-your-own salad destination, is introducing two new proteins to its menu: warm roasted chicken and all-natural fire-grilled steak. Available across salads, wraps, sandwiches, and bowls, these additions bring even more variety and flexibility to the menu, building on Saladworks’ commitment to fresh, made-to-order meals.

“Warm, freshly prepared proteins are a meaningful shift for us,” says Chef Cole Thompson, Vice President of Culinary at Saladworks. “They give guests more ways...

Golden Corral Fires Up Summer with NEW Backyard Grill Menu Featuring Premium Proteins 

Golden Corral, the nation’s go-to buffet for variety and value, is turning up the heat throughout the summer with its new Backyard Grill promotion, serving up delicious char-grilled flavors that bring the cookout straight to the buffet, available systemwide beginning today.

Backyard Grill brings an assortment of seasonal offerings across lunch and dinner, including the brand-new Grilled Bacon Cheddar Ranch Chicken Breast, available during both lunch and dinner hours featuring a grilled chicken breast marinated in Ranch...

FSIS Issues Health Alert for Misbranded Giovanni Rana Ravioli Over Undeclared Shellfish Allergens

USDA Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) has issued a public health alert for certain ravioli products due to misbranding and undeclared shellfish allergens.

The alert covers 32-ounce packages of “Giovanni Rana RANA Rustic Beef Sauce & Creamy Burrata Cheese Ravioli,” which may actually contain shrimp-filled ravioli in lobster sauce. Neither shrimp nor lobster—both major shellfish allergens—are listed on the label.

The products were produced between March 10 and April 21, 2026, with “use by” dates ranging from...

Study: Egg Consumption Is Associated With a Lower Risk of Alzheimer's Disease

Consumption of eggs is associated with a lower risk of being diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease for those 65 years and older, according to researchers at Loma Linda University Health.

Eating one egg per day for at least five days a week reduces risk of Alzheimer's by up to 27%, researchers found.

"Compared to never eating eggs, eating at least five eggs per week can decrease risk of Alzheimer's," said Joan Sabaté, MD, DrPH, a professor at Loma Linda University School of Public Health and the study's principal investigator...

Texas A&M University Defends Title at 77th USPOULTRY Foundation National Poultry Judging Contest

Ten universities recently participated in the 77th USPOULTRY Foundation Ted Cameron National Poultry Judging Contest, held at Mississippi State University (MSU). Texas A&M University (TAMU) won the high team overall category, while Ohio State University placed second. Additionally, TAMU’s Kyle Leibham and Annalyn Flores were recognized, with Leibham earning high individual overall honors and Flores finishing second...

US Beef Featured at Prominent Beef Festival in Thailand

Despite tariff disadvantages for U.S. beef, several factors point to expanding opportunities in Thailand, including a potential trade agreement.

While beef from Australia, New Zealand and Japan benefit from zero duties in Thailand under free trade agreements, U.S. beef is currently tariffed at 50%. But a signed framework for an agreement on reciprocal trade between the U.S. and Thailand in Oct. 2025, aimed at reducing trade barriers, offers hope to importers and U.S. exporters for a leveled trade environment...

GEN Korean BBQ to Sell CPG Ready-to-Cook Meats at Stater Brothers

GEN Restaurant Group, Inc. (“GEN” or the “Company”) (Nasdaq: GENK), owner of GEN Korean BBQ, a leading Korean BBQ brand known for its bold and authentic flavors, today announced the launch of four premium, fully marinated Korean BBQ meats now available at all 169 Stater Brothers Markets located across Southern California.

This chainwide rollout marks a significant step in bringing true GEN restaurant quality meats into everyday home cooking.

“We are excited to offer our ready-to-cook meats through grocery store, Stater Brothers. Our four delicious choices are Beef Bulgogi, Chicken Bulgogi, Pork Bulgogi, and Beef Short Ribs...

Australian Red Meat Continues to Build Momentum Across Southeast Asia

Meat & Livestock Australia (MLA) is continuing to strengthen demand and deepen relationships for Australian beef, sheepmeat, goatmeat and livestock across Southeast Asia, supported by strong on ground promotion, senior level market engagement and an expanding footprint in both established and emerging markets.
  
A key highlight was MLA’s participation at Food & Hospitality Asia (FHA) in Singapore, where MLA coordinated a strong Australian red meat showcase.

Cattle Raisers Applaud House Passage of Skinny Farm Bill

Texas & Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association President Stephen Diebel released a statement today on the passage of the Farm, Food, and National Security Act of 2026 out of the U.S. House of Representatives:

“The Farm, Food, and National Security Act of 2026 delivers much needed measures for the agriculture community. While the One Big Beautiful Bill provided critical investments and tax provisions for cattle raisers, ensuring farm bill legislation is up to date with the current ranching and farming environment is critical for the longevity of the industry. We’re grateful to lawmakers...

Create a Celebration as Unique as Mom

The Kroger Co. is helping customers celebrate moms in a way that feels personal and easy to pull together through exclusive savings and convenient delivery options.

"Mother's Day should feel special – not stressful or expensive," said Carlo Baldan, Kroger group vice president of Fresh Merchandising. "We're focused on helping families celebrate every kind of mom with fresh food, beautiful flowers and meaningful gifts at prices they can feel good about whether they shop in store, schedule a pickup or have everything delivered...

FMI Welcomes House Passage of Farm Bill

Today [April 30, 2026], FMI – The Food Industry Association welcomed the U.S. House of Representatives’ passage of a Farm Bill that strengthens the U.S. food system, supports American farmers and ensures continued access to safe, affordable food for families nationwide. FMI Chief Public Policy Officer Jennifer Hatcher offered the following statement.

“The Farm Bill has long served as a cornerstone of our nation’s food and agriculture policy. At a time of ongoing economic uncertainty and supply chain challenges, it is critical that Congress works collaboratively to deliver a...

Commissioner Wilton Simpson Announces 2026 Winner of Agricultural-Environmental Leadership Award

Today, Florida Commissioner of Agriculture Wilton Simpson announced Ernie Barnett as the recipient of the 2026 Agricultural-Environmental Leadership Award. The Agricultural-Environmental Leadership Award has been presented annually since 1994 and spotlights environmentally innovative growers and ranchers who share a commitment to protecting and preserving Florida’s resources while continuing to produce the world-class agricultural goods we rely on.

“Ernie Barnett has spent more than 35 years in the trenches working on Florida’s toughest land and water issues, and his impact speaks for itself,”... 

Boar's Head® Unveils The Fryer's™ Deep Fried* Turkey Breast, Redefining Deli Indulgence

Boar's Head Brand_®, one of the nation's leading providers of fine crafted delicatessen foods, today announced the launch of its newest deli offering, The Fryer's_™ Deep Fried^* Turkey Breast. This signature addition to the Boar's Head portfolio brings the savory flavor of a traditional deep-fried turkey to the deli counter year-round.

To celebrate the launch, Boar's Head is debuting a fully integrated national media campaign across television, audio, digital, and social platforms. The campaign kicks-off today with a high-impact activation on Sphere's Exosphere in Las Vegas today...

Pappas Restaurants Expands Portfolio with On The Border Acquisition

Pappas Restaurants, Inc. has expanded its restaurant portfolio with the addition of On The Border Mexican Grill & Cantina locations following a deal that closed in May 2025.

The move adds another well-known Texas brand to the Pappas family, which includes concepts such as Pappadeaux Seafood Kitchen, Pappasito’s Cantina, Pappas Bros. Steakhouse, Pappas Bar-B-Q, Pappas Burger, and Yiayia’s Greek Kitchen. Pappas is one of the largest family-owned and operated restaurant groups in the industry, known for its bold flavors and...

Popeyes Adds Chicken Wraps Permanently and Launches New Honey BBQ Sandwiches

Popeyes is spotlighting seasonal favorites and new flavors with its latest menu news.

Starting today, the company has made its popular chicken wraps a permanent addition to the menu following a successful rollout last summer. The lineup includes three signature varieties: Classic, Spicy, and the new Blackened Ranch.

The wraps feature hand-battered and fried chicken, served in a rolled buttermilk tortilla inspired by the brand’s famous biscuits and filled with fresh lettuce, cheese, and pickles. They are priced at $3.99...

Checkers & Rally's Raises the Bar on Value with New $3 Double Sandwich Lineup

Checkers & Rally's is turning up the flavor and the value once again. The drive-thru leaders are introducing a new $3 Double Sandwich lineup, delivering big, bold flavor at a price that's hard to beat.

With three bold options, guests get real variety and real value, with sandwiches starting at just $3 or available as part of a Small Combo with fries and a drink starting at $6.

Leading the lineup is the new Sourdough Double Melt, stacked...

FMI Expands Health and Well-being Practice with Appointment of Kim Visioni

Today, FMI – The Food Industry Association announces Kim Visioni, MS, RDN as the association’s director, health & well-being, where she will support FMI’s work advancing the role of grocery stores as destinations for health and well-being – providing nourishing food, wellness products, credible guidance and health-related services – and uphold the expansion of FMI’s relevant programs and community.

"With consumers’ interest in health and well-being at an all-time high and grocery stores uniquely positioned to meet customers, in...

Stop & Shop Expands Grocery Delivery for Customers with Uber Eats

Stop & Shop’s 350+ Stores Now Available on Uber Eats Marketplace for On-Demand Delivery

Stop & Shop has announced a new partnership with Uber Eats to bring enhanced on-demand grocery delivery to customers across New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, Rhode Island, and Massachusetts. Stop & Shop’s 350+ stores are now live on the Uber Eats marketplace, providing another channel for customers to access thousands of items such as fresh foods, pantry staples, household essentials and alcohol at select locations, with same-day and on-demand...

ANALYSIS: US Cage-Free Market Declines Amid Subdued Demand, Elevated Supply

The US cage-free market continues to face downward pressure as demand remains insufficient to absorb elevated production levels. Seasonal headwinds are compounding the issue, as summer months typically bring a slowdown in egg consumption, further limiting retail movement. Most accounts continue to describe demand as poor to fair, with shelf prices largely unchanged for several months, generally ranging from $1.50 to $2.00/dozen or higher. While select, smaller independent retailers have implemented aggressive feature activity, the overall impact on the broader market has been limited.

USDA Accepting Applications for an Agribusiness Trade Mission to Australia

The U.S. Department of Agriculture is accepting applications through May 18 for an Agribusiness Trade Mission to Melbourne, Australia, scheduled for Aug. 30 – Sept. 3.

The mission, led by USDA’s Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS), aims to expand export opportunities for U.S. producers in Australia, New Zealand, and the Pacific Islands. The trip takes place at the same time as the USDA-endorsed Fine Food Australia trade show, giving participants even more access to buyers in the region.

“With stable economic growth and proven demand for high-quality U.S. food in Australia, New Zealand, and the Pacific Islands, now is the time for U.S. agribusinesses to build on the...

Navigating the Trump Tariff Turbulence: A Comprehensive Timeline

US President Donald Trump and his administration have paused reciprocal tariffs on most countries.

“Based on the lack of respect that China has shown... I am hereby raising the [tariff] charged to China by the [USA] to 125%, effective immediately,” wrote Trump on Truth Social at 1:18 pm ET. 

It’s not clear if this 125% is in addition to the 20% imposed on Chinese imports to the US. In early March, Trump noted that he would add another 10% tariff on Chinese goods...

Indonesian Market Opens Doors to Five More Australian Meat Exporters 

In a major win for the Australian agricultural sector, five meat export establishments have been granted approval to supply the Indonesian market, according to a statement released late on Friday by Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry Julie Collins. 

As of 1 May 2026, the new listings include five beef facilities, with one also receiving approval for sheep and goat meat.  

Located across Queensland, Victoria, and Tasmania, these establishments were approved following extensive engagement between the Australian Government, industry, and Indonesian authorities...

Baldwin Introduces Bill to Combat Wildlife Disease Outbreaks

Today, U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) introduced legislation to prevent transmission of wildlife diseases like avian flu and chronic wasting disease between wildlife, livestock, and humans. The Wildlife Health Coordination and Zoonotic Disease Prevention Act increases interagency coordination, facilitates information sharing, improves coordination between states, and furthers sharing of best practices for managing wildlife and zoonotic disease outbreaks.

“Wisconsin farmers have dealt with the devastating fallout of avian flu and chronic wasting disease for far too long,” said Senator Baldwin. “These diseases don’t just threaten our...

Expana's Weekly Top 10

It was another busy week across global markets, with developments that ripple well beyond the headlines. From trade policy and geopolitical tension to seafood recoveries, retail demand signals, and major corporate moves, this week’s Top 10 captures the stories shaping decisions up and down the supply chain. Here’s a glance at some of the biggest headlines curated by Expana's journalists.

10. Expana remains your go-to hub for all news concerning the war in the Middle East. Stay in the know here.

Catch up with daily recaps of days 59 and 60...

USDA Confirms Pseudorabies in Swine Herds in Iowa and Texas

Today [April 30, 2026], the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) National Veterinary Services Laboratories (NVSL) confirmed via ELISA (Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay) and latex agglutination testing (LAT) a detection of antibodies to pseudorabies virus (PRV) in a small commercial swine facility in Iowa. This confirmation was a result of routine testing, not pre-movement surveillance. 

Initial traceback indicates that the five affected boars came from an outdoor facility in Texas. Animals from that herd also tested positive for pseudorabies. APHIS is working with officials in Iowa...

Ricketts Designates May as Beef Month

Yesterday, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) introduced a resolution to designate May 2026 as Beef Month in America. Ricketts is a longtime champion — and enjoyer — of Nebraska beef. Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Deb Fischer (R-NE), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-MS), James Lankford (R-OK), and Roger Marshall (R-KS) cosponsored this resolution.

“Nebraska is the beef state. Last year, we led the nation with over $1.75 billion in beef exports. We lead the nation in commercial cattle slaughter, with over 6 million...

Publix Q1 Sales Rise 2%, While Earnings Fall on Drug Pricing Impact

Publix posted higher first-quarter sales but lower earnings, as the grocer said a Medicare drug pricing change weighed on results.

For the three months ended March 28, 2026, Publix reported sales of $16.1 billion, up 2% from $15.8 billion a year earlier. Comparable-store sales were flat.

The company said the sales increase was dampened by the Medicare maximum fair price change that took effect Jan. 1, 2026, lowering prices for 10 drugs and reducing...

Golden Corral® Accelerates Strategic Nationwide Growth with Six New Locations Underway

Golden Corral, the nation's largest buffet chain known for its high-value, family-friendly dining experience, announced today its continued commitment to strategic, nationwide expansion, with six new restaurants currently in development across key markets in the U.S. and Puerto Rico. Backed by strong consumer demand for value-oriented dining and a buffet of development options, the iconic buffet brand is actively growing with both new and existing franchise owners.

With two locations under construction in Knoxville, Tennessee and Kissimmee...

ANALYSIS: US 2026 High Cattle Prices, Flat Cutouts - A Market Searching for Direction

Cash cattle prices made a strong move higher on Wednesday, with live sales in Nebraska reaching a new record of $257.50/cwt, up roughly 5% from last week’s $246.00/cwt trade. 

With grilling season approaching, typically one of the strongest demand periods for beef, packers appear focused on securing inventory and positioning for increased production. The goal is to stay ahead of anticipated retail and foodservice demand as consumers move into peak backyard grilling months...

ANALYSIS: US Boneless Beef Cold Storage Stocks Fall MOM in March 2026

Across the US, total boneless beef stocks continue to track well below 10-year averages. As domestic production declines and demand remains strong, a smaller share of US beef is being allocated to cold storage. At the same time, imported beef is turning over more quickly: wider price spreads have encouraged increased use in formulations, reducing the time product spends in freezers and accelerating its...

ANALYSIS: Chicken Cold Storage Shows Broad-Based Drawdown in March

March’s cold storage data reflects a decisive “clearing pattern” across much of the complex, with total chicken inventories falling 3.1% month over month and 3.4% below year-ago levels...

ANALYSIS: Japan’s Q1 2026 Beef Imports Surge 13% YOY, Australia Reclaims Lead

Japan’s beef imports maintained robust upward momentum through the first quarter of 2026, defying a punishing macroeconomic environment.

Year-to-date (YTD) volumes through March reached 104,987 metric tons (MT), representing a solid 13.0% increase (+12,072 MT) compared to the same period in 2025, according to the latest data from Trade Statistics of Japan.

This recovery is meaningful following a dismal 2025, where Japan’s total beef imports fell to 496,166 MT, the lowest in a decade...

Portillo’s Turns Up the Heat this May with New Hot & Saucy Italian Beef Sandwich

Savor Portillo’s first-ever Italian Beef LTO featuring hot Giardiniera Peppers and creamy Giardiniera Sauce

Portillo’s is turning up the heat on a Chicago classic this month. The famed fast-casual brand is debuting the Hot & Saucy Italian Beef Sandwich – a bold, spicy twist on its legendary Italian Beef that brings serious fire to a fan favorite. Available for a limited time through May 31, this craveable new sandwich is here to shake up the status quo.

“With consumer interest...

America’s Pork Producers Celebrate Victory & Express Thanks After Bipartisan House Farm Bill Passage

America’s 60,000-plus pork producers of all sizes, from all states celebrated House passage of the 2026 Farm Bill.

On an impressive, bipartisan 224-200 vote, the Farm, Food, and National Security Act of 2026 included 100% of the National Pork Producers Council’s policy requests—including a very significant section that provides much-needed relief from the misguided California Proposition 12.

“Today’s House farm bill passage is a testament to the power of rural America when we stand up for our farms...

USDA Issues Health Alert for Mama Cozzi’s Breakfast Pizzas Over Possible Salmonella Risk

The USDA’s Food Safety and Inspection Service has issued a public health alert for two Mama Cozzi’s breakfast pizza products that may contain Salmonella-contaminated dairy ingredients, according to agency notes.

The alert covers the 18.5-ounce Mama Cozzi’s Biscuit Crust Sausage & Cheese Breakfast Pizza and the 17.15-ounce Mama Cozzi’s Biscuit Crust Cooked Pork Belly Crumbles, Cooked Bacon Topping, Pepper & Onion Breakfast Pizza. The products were manufactured by Richelieu Foods Inc., bear establishment number 5699, and carry...

USDA Announces Actions to Better Serve States, Nutrition Program Recipients & the American Taxpayer

Today, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Food, Nutrition, and Consumer Services mission area announced its intention to introduce the Food and Nutrition Administration. This shift will include a reorganization and relocation, all to move program leadership and staff from Washington, D.C. to hub and program compliance locations across the U.S. This shift in customer service will not disrupt program execution nor any endeavor to eliminate fraud, waste, and abuse across USDA’s 16 nutrition assistance programs.

“On my first day leading the People’s Department, I shared several...

Farm Bureau Applauds House Passage of Farm Bill

American Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall commented today on the House of Representatives vote to pass the Farm, Food, and National Security Act of 2026.

“Farmers and ranchers applaud the House of Representatives for passing a new, modernized farm bill. We appreciate Chairman G.T. Thompson’s leadership to get this done. After three years of extensions and eight years since a farm bill was passed, we’re grateful the House found a bipartisan path forward. Important updates to research and conservation, as well as increased loan limits and clarity on interstate commerce, will...

House Passed Farm Bill Includes Provision to Include Hot Rotisserie Chicken in SNAP

During this morning’s consideration of amendments to the Farm Bill, the House voted overwhelmingly (384-35) in support of Rep. Rick Crawford’s (R-AR) commonsense and bipartisan amendment that would allow Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) participants to purchase hot rotisserie chicken using their benefits. Currently, participants can only buy a rotisserie chicken if it's cold, but not if it's hot.

“I want to thank Rep. Crawford for his leadership on this issue, and congratulate him for the passage of his amendment by such a wide and...