HPAI H5N1 Virus in Dairy Cattle – What We Know

In March 2024, Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) A (H5N1), commonly referred to as bird flu, was confirmed in domestic U.S. livestock for the first time in a dairy operation in Texas. Since then, the virus has spread to 203 dairy operations across 14 states, raising widespread uncertainty throughout the dairy and livestock markets. Industry participants have raised concerns about the outbreak's potential impact on consumer perception and demand for dairy and meat products, though government agencies reiterate that the national food supply remains safe. Expana is closely monitoring the...

Toast Unveils Restaurant Trends Report; Costs for Lunch Up, QSR Breakfast Spending Shifts

Toast, a digital platform for restaurants, unveiled its Q2 2024 Restaurant Trends report. The report highlights the state of the industry via aggregated data from a group of selected restaurants in U.S. cities on its platform.

During Q2 2024, Toast found that consumers paid higher prices at quickservice restaurants (QSR). Guests shelled out an average of $11.26 for sandwiches and wraps (+4.6% YOY), $12.98 (+4.6%) for bowls, $11.45 (+4.6% YOY) for burgers, $11.42...

Smashburger Appoints Jim Sullivan as Chief Development Officer

Leading fast-casual better burger brand Smashburger® is excited to announce the recent appointment of Jim Sullivan as Chief Development Officer. In his new role, Sullivan is responsible for overseeing all facets of restaurant development, including market planning, site selection and franchise sales, with a strategic focus on elevating Smashburger's brand identity in the fast-casual space.

All 144 locations of the Company's two brands throughout the United States, including in Puerto Rico, and in Saudi Arabia, (both corporate-owned and franchised) will continue normal, uninterrupted operations. The Chapter 11 filing...

BurgerFi International Files for Protection Under Chapter 11

BurgerFi International, Inc. (NASDAQ: BFI, BFIIW) ("BurgerFi" or the "Company"), owner of the high-quality, casual dining chain Anthony's Coal Fired Pizza & Wings ("Anthony's") and one of the nation's leading fast-casual "better burger" dining concepts, BurgerFi, announced today that it has filed voluntary petitions for reorganization under Chapter 11 of the U.S. Bankruptcy Code in order to preserve the value of its brands for all stakeholders.

All 144 locations of the Company's two brands throughout the United States, including in Puerto Rico, and in Saudi Arabia, (both corporate-owned and franchised)...

ANALYSIS: Turkey Exports Close Month On High Note

For those involved in the export sector of the turkey industry, 2024 has been anything but smooth sailing. Geopolitical tensions, fluctuating exchange rates, and variable international demand patterns have all contributed to a challenging landscape for players to navigate. Despite these difficulties, July's export figures showed some positive signs for marketers...

This Week in Retail: Rising Feature Volume for Roasts

This month marks an ideal blend of seasons for the retail sector, as grilling cuts continue to be featured along with autumn favorites like hearty roasts and everything pumpkin. The shift to cooler weather is already being reflected in increased promotions for pork and beef roasts, which have earned a larger share of circular ad space this week. 

In the beef category, roasts now account for 26.4 percent of total ad space, up from 17 percent the previous week. Steak promotions eased to 36.9 percent, a nearly 10-point decline from...

Domino's is Saying No to Shrinkflation by Launching MOREflation

Shrinkflation seems to be everywhere these days, but not at Domino's Pizza Inc. (NYSE: DPZ). The largest pizza company in the world is taking a stand against shrinkflation by giving customers more food for the same price. Introducing MOREflation: when online customers mix and match any two or more medium two-topping pizzas from Domino's for $6.99 each, they can upgrade one of their pizzas to a large for free from Sept. 9-29.

"As a response to high inflation, many companies are shrinking products to avoid raising prices...

Dine Brands Expands Global Footprint With First Dual-Branded Applebee’s® and IHOP® in Honduras

Dine Brands International, an affiliate of Dine Brands Global, Inc., the parent company of Applebee’s®, IHOP®, and Fuzzy’s Taco Shop® restaurants, is further expanding its global footprint and unique dual-branded Applebee’s and IHOP concept to new international markets. Through a multi-unit development agreement with franchisee BLT Global Brands, the first dual-branded restaurant in San Pedro Sula, Honduras is planned to open on September 16, 2024...

Big Chicken Teams Up with Bite Kiosk to Launch the ‘O’Neal Family Secret Menu’

Bite, the leader in intelligent kiosk solutions for restaurants, and Big Chicken, the fast-growing chicken concept known for creating BIG Smiles through BIG Flavor and BIG Fun, are joining forces to bring guests a chance to try some of Founder Shaquille O’Neal’s family favorites through the ‘O’Neal Family Secret Menu.’ The kiosk-only menu is hidden for guests to discover for themselves on Bite’s ordering kiosks at company-owned Big Chicken locations. Big Chicken is in the process of rolling out the new menu additions...

fuku Spices Things Up with New Location at Crypto.com Arena

fuku®, the spicy fried chicken concept created by David Chang, has added a new location on the west coast at Crypto.com Arena. This partnership, brokered by AEG Global Partnerships, is the brand’s first presence in the Greater Los Angeles area and will go live during the NBA and NHL home openers with the Los Angeles Lakers on Oct. 22 and LA Kings on Oct. 24. fuku is forging an accelerated growth strategy and now has 23 locations in 15 major stadiums and arenas across the U.S. and counting...

ANALYSIS: August Trends in the By-Products Market

During August, the by-products market exhibited a predominantly steady trend, with limited activity across most sectors. Participants maintained a "wait-and-see" attitude due to the lack of in-spec material and limited offers. Tallow and grease prices ranged from steady to slightly weaker throughout the month, with minor downward adjustments largely influenced by fluctuations in soybean oil prices. This behavior in the tallow market was not surprising, as the quality issues, particularly concerning free fatty acid (FFA) levels, are typical of seasonal patterns observed during previous summers. Renderer tallow saw...

Wayne-Sanderson Farms Partners with Rising LPGA Star and Daughter of Georgia Poultry Farmer

The nation's third largest poultry producer, Wayne-Sanderson Farms today announced its sponsorship of professional golfer Jenny Bae, a two-time winner as a rookie pro on the Epson Tour, the official qualifying tour of the LPGA Tour. Jenny is the daughter of Peter and Hannah Bae, poultry farmers in north Georgia who have been growing chickens for the company for over a decade.

"At Wayne-Sanderson Farms, we recognize the integral role of our growers as partners in our mission to deliver wholesome high-quality...

BJ's Restaurant & Brewhouse Launches New $13 Pizookie Meal Deal

Today, BJ's Restaurants, Inc. (NASDAQ: BJRI) launches a new attack in the fight against inflation: the new $13 Pizookie® Meal Deal, an unbeatable offer available at BJ's Restaurant & Brewhouse locations nationwide. At a time when inflation continues to stretch consumers' budgets and rising costs make dining out feel like a luxury,* BJ's is setting out to create an experience that's as good for the soul as it is for the wallet. While many restaurants scramble to meet the demand for affordability, BJ's is creating a new...

The 2024 Corn Harvest Is Officially Underway; Hurricane Francine to Make Landfall 

The week ending September 8th saw the start of measurable corn harvest in the U.S. for 2024.

The USDA reports 5 percent of this year’s corn crop has been harvested so far, which is slightly above a year ago at this time, and two points ahead of the 5-year average. Texas reports 75 percent of its corn crop has been harvested, while North Carolina has harvested 18 percent. Nine of the 18 primary corn-producing states have yet to begin harvest activities...

Wakefern Food Corp. Seeks Local Suppliers and Vendors

Wakefern Food Corp., the nation’s largest retailer-owned cooperative, with member companies that own and operate supermarkets under the ShopRite, Price Rite Marketplace, The Fresh Grocer, Dearborn Market, Gourmet Garage, Fairway Market and Di Bruno Bros. banners, is hosting a supplier summit this fall to find the best new foods and products for its supermarket banners. Interested suppliers and vendors should be based in markets where Wakefern banners operate, and the application process for Wakefern’s Total Store Local Supplier Summit kicks off Sept. 9...

White Castle Doubles Up the Flavor in Grocery Aisles with New Double Cheese Slider

White Castle, the originator of the Slider and the first in the industry to transform restaurant quality food into a Consumer Packaged Goods (CPG) mainstay is now doubling down on its innovation with the introduction of the new Double Cheese Slider in the freezer aisle! White Castle maintains that when you have a microwave, you have a Castle, and that is true as the CPG Slider pioneer brings another craveable taste to consumers coast-to-coast.

With the new Double Cheese Slider, White Castle is...

U.S. Dairy Councils Partner with Tackle Hunger to Provide Dairy Foods to Families in Need

With the continued increase in health disparities directly related to food insecurity in America, regional dairy councils across the nation announce a year-long collaboration with Tackle Hunger, to provide a fundraising opportunity for those who want to help their local food charity gain access to dairy foods like milk, cheese and yogurt. Milk is one of the most requested yet least donated items in food charities due to its perishability and refrigeration needs, but you can help change that with Tackle Hunger's innovative donation map...

Chipotle Brings Back Smoked Brisket in the U.S. and Canada

Chipotle Mexican Grill (NYSE: CMG) today announced Smoked Brisket is back on the grill at participating restaurants in the U.S. and Canada for a limited time. Smoked Brisket has remained a top requested menu item for Chipotle to bring back among fans on social media since it was first introduced three years ago.

We are listening to our guests and bringing this fan-favorite menu innovation out of the vault after three years," said Chris Brandt, Chief Brand Officer. "This premium protein...

Amazon Fresh Introduces New Grocery Savings for Prime Members

Amazon (NASDAQ:AMZN) today announced new, exclusive discounts for Prime members shopping in-store and online at Amazon Fresh; a new private-label brand that offers great value for all customers; and enhancements to the online experience that make it easier for customers to shop for groceries from Amazon Fresh.

"We're always looking to make grocery shopping easier, faster, and more affordable for our customers," said Claire Peters, worldwide vice president of Amazon Fresh. "With expanded Prime member savings, the introduction of the new Amazon Saver...

Cargill Acquires Two Feed Mills in Denver and Kansas City from Compana Pet Brands

Cargill Animal Nutrition and Health has acquired two feed mills from Compana Pet Brands – one in Denver, Colorado, and the other in Kansas City, Kansas. With the addition of the two facilities, Cargill will be expanding its production and distribution capabilities in the western and central regions of the US, the company has announced.   

Through the Denver mill acquisition, Cargill will welcome over 35 employees. The Denver mill has dedicated packing lines, allowing for growth with ag retail customers who serve the backyard/hobby farmer and pet owner segments...

Cal-Maine Foods, Inc. Announces Strategic Investment in New Egg Products Joint Venture

Cal-Maine Foods, Inc. (NASDAQ: CALM) today announced that it has completed a strategic investment with Crepini LLC, establishing a new egg products and prepared foods joint venture. Crepini LLC, founded in 2007, has grown its brand throughout the United States and Mexico featuring egg wraps, protein pancakes, crepes, and wrap-ups, which are now sold online and in over 3,500 retail stores.

The new entity, located in Hopewell Junction, New York, will operate as Crepini Foods LLC (“Crepini”). Cal-Maine Foods...

The Wendy's Company Appoints Arthur Winkleblack Chairman of the Board

The Wendy's Company (Nasdaq: WEN) today announced that its Board of Directors has appointed Arthur B. Winkleblack as non-executive Chairman of the Board. He succeeds Nelson Peltz, who has been named Chairman Emeritus in recognition of his long-time leadership, counsel, guidance and contributions to the Board and the Company.

Winkleblack has served as Lead Independent Director since October 2023 and has been a member of the Board since 2016. He also serves as Chairman of the Nominating and...

Chomps to Open State-of-the-Art Manufacturing Facility in 2025 to Meet Growing Demand

Chomps, the fastest–growing snack and food brand in the U.S.1, today announces a new state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Mexico, Missouri, slated to open in 2025. This exciting development marks the next phase in Chomps' long-standing strategic partnership with Western Smokehouse Partners (WSP) and will support Chomps' rapid growth, allowing the brand to meet an increasing consumer demand for better-for-you meat snacks.

The co-investment in a new facility with WSP comes on the heels of Chomps' most...

ANALYSIS: Wholesale U.S. Shrimp Prices Converging with Typically Lower Egg Prices

There is usually a common perception from consumers that seafood and shrimp are luxury items while eggs have appealed to price sensitive consumers. But the chart might tell a different story right now. From 2019 to 2020, the Expana Benchmark Price Large Shell Egg, Midwest averaged 19% of the price of the 16-20 count Peeled and Deveined, Tail-On White Shrimp, Asia origin...

September Import Cargo to Remain Elevated Ahead of Possible Port Strike

The nation’s major container ports are expected to see another busy month in September ahead of a potential labor strike at East Coast and Gulf Coast ports, according to the Global Port Tracker report released today by the National Retail Federation and Hackett Associates.

“This is a critical time as retailers prepare for the all-important holiday season, and we need every port in the country working at full capacity,” NRF Vice President for Supply Chain...

Milo’s Poultry Farms, LLC., Recalls Eggs Because of Possible Health Risk

Milo’s Poultry Farms, LLC. of Bonduel, WI is recalling all “Milo’s Poultry Farms” and “Tony’s Fresh Market” branded eggs because these eggs have the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella, an organism which can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems. Healthy persons infected with Salmonella often experience fever, diarrhea (which may be bloody), nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain...

ANALYSIS: Chicken Cold Storage Trends in July

The total amount of chicken in cold storage in July was down -10.5% year-over-year (YoY), while month-over-month (MoM) it was up 1.5% compared to the 5-year average change of 1.0%...

ANALYSIS: Pork Production Reaches 3-Year High in August

Federally inspected pork production has maintained the highest levels in the last 3 years going into the final week of August. According to the USDA Federally Inspected Pork Production Weekly Report, published on August 31^st, production volumes reached 509.7 million pounds. This represented a 3.8% increase from the same period last year and 2.9% above the three-year average. This summer's peak production number occurred in mid-August, reaching 527.1 million pounds, a significant 4.4% increase above the three-year average...

U.S. Egg Market Retreats from Seasonal Highs as Rising Shelf Prices Stifle Demand

A sharp rise in retail shelf prices across the U.S. has stifled consumer demand for eggs, bringing an end to a six-week rally that had pushed wholesale values to record highs for this time of year...

FDA Approves Inneo as New Food Processing Aid Against Listeria

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) have granted GRAS (Generally Recognized as Safe) status to INNEO, a food processing aid made to eliminate Listeria monocytogenes. This innovative technology, developed by Canadian biotechnology company Innodal, uses antimicrobial peptides to eliminate the harmful pathogen. With this approval, Innodal is set to launch industrial-scale projects with U.S. processing companies, marking its entry into the U.S. market.

INNEO, Innodal's flagship product, has been successfully commercialized in Canada for four years and will now be available...

PODCAST: Agri-Food for Thought Episode 12 - Summer Food Trends Shift into Autumn

Listen now as Jamie and Simon examine seasonal shifts underway in the food and ag space as we say goodbye to Summer and hello to cooler weather, election season, and the harvest. 

Anthrax Confirmed in Wyoming Cattle for First Time Since 1970s

According to the Wyoming Livestock Board, anthrax was confirmed in multiple beef herds in Carbon County on August 31, 2024. This marks the first time the bacterial disease has been confirmed in Wyoming cattle since the 1970s.

“Multiple state agencies and private veterinarians responded quickly following the anthrax diagnosis by the Wyoming State Veterinary Laboratory. Protecting animal and human health is critical upon diagnosis of a zoonotic disease,” said Dr. Hallie Hasel, Wyoming State Veterinarian. 

“The Wyoming Livestock Board will continue working with producers and private veterinarians to reduce further...

Aramark Celebrates NFL’s International Games with Globally Inspired Cuisine at Stadiums Across U.S.

The 2024 NFL season is upon us, and Aramark Sports + Entertainment (Aramark, NYSE: ARMK) is bringing the spirit of global cuisine to its venues as the league prepares to host five international games in three countries.

Aramark’s partners at the Philadelphia Eagles and Minnesota Vikings will be part of the exciting lineup of NFL International Games, with the Eagles competing on Sept. 6 in São Paulo, Brazil, and the Vikings playing on Oct. 6 in London, England. To celebrate these historic events...

Chile Approves Agreement with U.S. to Protect Market Access for U.S. Cheese and Meat Products

On Tuesday, September 3, the National Congress of Chile approved the agreement on Chile Market Access and Prior Users for Cheese and Meats. The approval of this agreement by Chile confirms the United States’ and Chile’s mutual understanding regarding market access to Chile for a number of U.S. cheese and meat products and how Chile will treat prior users of certain terms for cheeses.

“This is a welcome development from the Republic of Chile, and I would like to thank them for their work...

Court Approves Red Lobster Bankruptcy Plan; Over 500 Restaurants to Survive

Seafood restaurant chain Red Lobster announced that it has received court approval for its Chapter 11 bankruptcy plan.

As part of the plan, RL Investor Holdings will acquire the chain. RL Investor Holdings is an entity created by funds managed by  affiliates of Fortress Investment Group LLC, alongside co-investors TCW Private Credit and Blue Torch.

The deal is expected to close by the end of this month, per a statement from Red Lobster.

The sale also means that Red Lobster will remain an independent company with 544...

ANALYSIS: Production Indications Suggest Turkey Supply Pinch

An earlier analysis piece we published described the year-over-year (YoY) change in turkey hatchery figures and quotations for frozen 16 lbs. toms...