ANALYSIS: Brazilian Beef Exports fall 11.2% M-o-M in December, but Reach Record High in 2024

Brazilian beef exports dropped for the second consecutive month after hitting record high figure in September. According to the latest data released by the Brazilian Ministry of Development, Industry, Trade and Services, shipments of fresh beef (frozen and chilled) totaled brazil202,567 MT last month, marking a monthly 11.2% decline from November’s 228,129 MT, and 2.8% lower compared to the same period last year. On an annual basis, this accounts for 2.55 million MT of beef exported last year, showing a notable 27% increase...

ANALYSIS: Economic Headwinds Drag China’s 2024 Meat Imports Down 9.7% to 6.66M mt

China’s 2024 total meat imports, including variety meats amounted to 6.66 million metric tons (mt), falling 9.7% compared to the previous year, according to the latest preliminary data from the General Administration of Customs of the People's Republic of China.

As the world’s largest meat importer since 2019, China’s meat imports in 2024 decreased for the fourth consecutive year. From the spillover effects of its recovery from African Swine Fever (ASF) and stockpiling efforts in 2023 to increased domestic production, economic challenges...

USDA’s Third New Ruling: Aimed to Help Contract Chicken Farmers

As part of the Packers & Stockyards Act of 1923 which sought to even the agricultural playing field for the meat and animal protein industry, the USDA will now give contract chicken farmers better insight into payment rates for their birds, according to a press release. 

This is the third installment in a series of regulation reforms under the Biden-Harris administration which is intended to level the playing field, bring stability and fairness, and should provide information about capital improvements farmers must make to keep and/or renew...

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 925 dairy operations across 16 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 situation...

Scott Mezvinsky Promoted to KFC Division CEO, Effective March 1, 2025

Yum! Brands, Inc. today announced the promotion of Scott Mezvinsky, 49, to KFC Division Chief Executive Officer, reporting to Yum! Brands Chief Executive Officer David Gibbs, effective March 1, 2025. Mezvinsky, a 20-year veteran of the Company who currently serves as President of Taco Bell North America and International, will succeed Sabir Sami, who is stepping down as KFC CEO at the end of February 2025. Mezvinsky will assume global responsibility for driving the brand strategy and performance of KFC...

Panera Bread Announces New Leadership Additions to Marketing and Culinary Teams

Panera Bread, a leader and pioneer in the fast casual restaurant industry, today announced two new leadership appointments in marketing and culinary with the addition of Robin Seward as Senior Vice President, Brand and Integrated Marketing, and Scott Uehlein as Vice President, Culinary. Both leaders joined Panera in early January and report to Chief Marketing Officer Mark Shambura.

Robin Seward joins Panera as Senior Vice President, Brand and Integrated Marketing. A seasoned leader and brand strategist, Seward oversees all strategic marketing planning, including consumer insights, product...

Hormel Foods Chairman, President and CEO James P. Snee to Retire at End of Fiscal Year

Hormel Foods Corporation, a Fortune 500 global branded food company, today announced that James P. Snee, chairman of the board, president and chief executive officer, will retire at the end of fiscal 2025, following a distinguished 36-year career with the company.

The Board has formed a search committee and will benefit from its existing CEO-succession process to identify Snee's successor. Internal and external candidates are being considered. Snee has agreed that once his successor is named...

UP Products, LLC, DBA Meyer Wholesale Recalls Ready-To-Eat and Raw Sausage Products

UP Products, LLC, doing business as Meyer Wholesale, a Ewen, Mich. establishment, is recalling approximately 400 pounds of sausage products due to misbranding and an undeclared allergen, the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today. The products contain soy, a known allergen, which is not declared on the product labels.

The ready-to-eat pork and beef Polish sausage and raw pork and beef potato sausage items were produced on various dates from October 30, 2024, through January 7, 2025...

Markets Concerned by FMS as UK, Netherlands Limit German Imports

The United Kingdom and the Netherlands have introduced restrictions on German meat products following the Foot and Mouth disease cases in water buffalo near Berlin.  

The UK has banned imports of live animals or meat products from “ungulates (ruminants and porcine animals, including wild game),” milk and dairy products and other animal by-products “unless treated to effectively mitigate the risk of FMD,” the UK Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) stated.  

"Around 200 pigs at a farm near where the outbreak was detected were slaughtered...

GAO Submits FDA Recommendations to Congress for Increased Inspection Efforts

On January 8, 2025, the U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO) released its Q&A report to Congress, titled “Food Safety: FDA Should Strengthen Inspection Efforts to Protect the U.S. Food Supply.”

FDA inspections fail to meet mandated annual targets

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is responsible for ensuring the safety of nearly 80% of the nation’s food supply including fruits, vegetables, processed foods, and most seafood.

Since 2007, the FDA has been on the GAO's High-Risk List, which highlights 37 areas across the federal government that are...

Red Robin Gourmet Burgers, Inc. Reports Preliminary Revenue Results for the Fourth Quarter 

Red Robin Gourmet Burgers, Inc. ("Red Robin" or the "Company"), a full-service restaurant chain serving an innovative selection of high-quality gourmet burgers and American favorites in a family-friendly atmosphere, today reported preliminary, unaudited revenue results for the fourth quarter ended December 29, 2024.

Preliminary Revenue Results for the Fourth Quarter of Fiscal 2024 as Compared to the Fourth Quarter of Fiscal 2023:

• Total revenue is expected to be approximately $285.2 million, a decrease of $23.8 million, primarily due...

Domino's® Kicks Off the New Year with 50% Off Pizza Deal

Domino's Pizza Inc., the largest pizza company in the world, is celebrating the new year by launching a delicious deal: 50% off all menu-priced pizzas ordered online Jan. 13-19.

"The holidays are over, but to us, the party has just begun," said Frank Garrido, Domino's executive vice president – chief restaurant officer. "Domino's is celebrating the new year by giving customers a deal that'll make their taste buds jump for joy. All pizzas are half off, so customers can enjoy any size pizza...

The International Egg Commission (IEC) rebrands as the World Egg Organisation

The International Egg Commission (IEC) has rebranded as the World Egg Organisation (WEO), a reflection of the organisation’s commitment to evolving alongside the global egg industry and leading the way to a successful collective future.

The new name and identity mark a significant milestone in the organisation’s history; modernising their image, strengthening their global presence, and better aligning with their mission to support and promote the egg industry worldwide.

“This rebrand to the World Egg Organisation represents more than a name change...

FSIS Issues Recall for Frozen Chicken and Cheese Taquitos Sold at Aldi Due to Safety Concerns

The United States Department of Agriculture's (USDA) Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) have announced the recall of 24,870 pounds of frozen chicken and cheese taquito products that may be contaminated with metal.

Bestway Sandwiches, a Valencia, California company, say customer complaints made them aware of the issue, one of which reported a dental injury.

The affected taquitos are packaged in 20-ounce cartons labeled CASA MAMITA CHICKEN & CHEESE TAQUITOS. They were produced on July 3, 2024 and...

1 in 6 Adult Americans Replaced Meals With Snacks in 2024: Euromonitor International

One in six adult residents of the United States is replacing their daily meals with snacks, data analytics company Euromonitor International has revealed

According to Euromonitor International’s World Market for Snacks 2024 report, 18% of adult Indians, 17% of adult Americans and 13 % of adult Britons have been replacing their meals with snacks, as convenience-oriented lifestyle changes favour snacking and consumer purchases continue to be impacted by economic uncertainty.

Carl Quash III, head of snacks at Euromonitor International, said: “Consumers have been under...

European Shell Egg Market Concerned by New Avian Influenza Outbreaks in Italy and France

Italy reported an outbreak of the severe H5N1 avian influenza virus late last week. It was the first outbreak in Italy for several months, according to the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH).   

The outbreak occurred on a large commercial layer farm in the northeast believed to house up to 1 million birds, a market source told Expana.  

The same market source said that now that H5N1 avian influenza is back in Italy, coupled with the spread of other livestock and poultry...

New Cases of Foot-And-Mouth Disease in Germany; First Since 1988  

German authorities reported at least three cases of Foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) virus in water buffalo in Hoppegarten, just west of Berlin, on January 10. But up to 14 animals are potentially infected, a World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) report shows.

FMD is a “highly contagious viral disease of livestock that has a significant economic impact,” and it can affect cloven-hoofed animals, including cattle, sheep, goats, or pigs, according to the German Federal Research Institute for Animal Health (FLI)...

Shake Shack Names Justin Mennen as Chief Information and Technology Officer

Shake Shack Inc. today announced the appointment of Justin Mennen as Chief Information and Technology Officer, effective January 13, 2025. Mennen will report to Rob Lynch, CEO of Shake Shack, and will oversee all aspects of technology.

“Justin brings a wealth of experience as a technology leader to Shake Shack, along with an impressive track record of driving innovation across industries,” said Lynch. “He’s joining us at a pivotal time in our growth, and we’re confident his expertise will play a key role in...

ANALYSIS: Early-Year Trends in Fats and Tallows

The by-products market enters 2025 with divergent trends between fats and tallows, following a particularly quiet end to 2024, where most participants maintained cautious positions amid policy uncertainties. Key industry concerns revolve around potential changes in oil trade dynamics and domestic energy policies, which could significantly influence market direction. 

Choice White Grease shows increased downward pressure as the year begins, reflecting efforts to stimulate buying interest and manage inventories. By contrast, the tallow market demonstrates notable firmness, with both renderer and packer grades strengthening as...

Pat Hafner Elevated to President of Outback Steakhouse

Bloomin' Brands has announced the promotion of Pat Hafner to Executive Vice President, President of Outback Steakhouse, the company’s flagship brand. In this new role, Hafner will oversee all operations and drive the continued growth and development of the Outback brand.

Hafner’s journey with Bloomin’ Brands began in the restaurant as a server at Outback Steakhouse. Over the years, he steadily advanced through a series of roles, including Manager, Managing Partner, Joint Venture Partner, and Regional Vice President.

In 2018, Hafner expanded his resume by joining Carrabba’s...

ANALYSIS: A 2024 Review of Broiler Headcounts, Hatchability, and Consumer Preference

2024 rounded out the year with a cumulative broiler headcount that was 1.2% below that of 2023. While this lower percentage doesn’t seem to fit the narrative of the past three months, it actually helps illustrate the adaptability of the industry in the wake of the lowest yearly hatchability average of the past five years.

In Q1, the headcount for 2024 was 2.7% lower than 2023. This shifted to 1.7% lower in Q2, 0.7% lower in Q3, and finally the numbers for Q4 of 2024...

Perdue Farms Continues Support for North Carolina Center for Poultry Education Mission

Second-generation Perdue Farms poultry farmer Steven Brake is passionate about educating the next generation on where their food comes from and agriculture’s role in feeding the world. So much, that he created the North Carolina Center for Poultry Education (NCCPE) on his farm in 2019 in Pinetops, North Carolina.

To help Brake continue his mission to educate thousands of students and anyone else interested in understanding the processes involved in food production, Perdue Farms has invested $15,000 in the nonprofit Center for Poultry Education...

Firehouse Subs® Sets Sights on Brazil with Ambitious Expansion Plans

Today, the Firehouse Subs® brand announces its entry to Brazil building on its international expansion. The brand plans to open more than 500 restaurants in 10 years across the country. The first restaurant is expected to launch in 2025 and will mark Firehouse Subs debut in South America.

Founded in Jacksonville, Florida, in 1994 by two former firefighter brothers, Firehouse Subs is celebrated for its premium sandwiches, made using a unique cooking method unlocking juicier flavors by steaming the meats and cheeses...

ILA and USMX Avoid Work Stoppage with New Six-Year Contract

The International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA) and United States Maritime Alliance (USMX) reached a tentative agreement on all items for a new six-year Master Contract on January 8, per a joint press release.

The two sides agreed to continue to operate under the current contract until the union can meet with its full Wage Scale Committee and schedule a ratification vote, and USMX members can ratify the terms of the final contract, per the joint statement.

“We are pleased to announce that ILA and USMX have reached a...

Rajbhog Foods Empanada Mislabeling Triggers FSIS Alert

The FSIS has issued a public health alert regarding frozen items labeled as Chicken Curry Empanadas from Rajbhog Foods.

These products may actually contain Apple Cinnamon Empanadas, which include milk, a known allergen. A recall was not initiated because the affected items are no longer available for purchase.

The frozen empanadas were produced on November 14, 2024, and packaged on November 20-21, 2024.

The 9.6 oz packages are in cardboard boxes labeled as "bettergoods TRADITIONALLY CRAFTED Chicken Curry Empanadas," with best-by...

Valeo Foods Group Completes the Acquisition of I.D.C. Holding

Valeo Foods Group, one of Europe’s leading producers of quality sweets, treats and snacks, has completed its previously announced acquisition of I.D.C. Holding, a major independent producer of quality wafers, biscuits, confectionary and chocolate in Central and Eastern Europe.

First established in Slovakia over a century ago, I.D.C. Holding is a transformative addition to Valeo Foods Group’s expanding portfolio. Producing a wide range of branded wafer, biscuit, sugar confectionary and seasonal chocolate products, I.D.C. Holding is a natural fit with Valeo Foods Group’s sweet snacking...

ANALYSIS: Australia’s Beef Boom Sets 2024 Exports Record at 1.34M mt

Australia’s 2024 beef and veal exports scaled to fresh new highs to 1.34 million metric tons (mt), according to data from the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Forestry (DAFF).

Pegging its annual growth at an impressive 24.1%, shipments jumped 261,163 mt compared to the same period last year. Following the 2019–2020 drought years, Australia in 2024 reaped the benefits of its herd rebuilding effort with record-high production levels, which supported strong export growth throughout the year.

The slump in US production...

ANALYSIS: First Edition of Expana's Monthly Pet Food Market Insight

Welcome to the Pet Food Market Insight report, your essential guide to navigating the dynamic and ever-evolving pet food industry. In this comprehensive report, we provide you with critical price and supply insights that are crucial for making informed decisions in today’s competitive market. These numbers are monthly averages, taken at month’s end. Whether you’re a manufacturer, supplier, or retailer, staying ahead of market trends and understanding the fluctuations in raw material costs, supply chain challenges, and consumer preferences...

Teamsters and Costco at an Impasse Ahead of Contract Deadline 

The International Brotherhood of Teamsters has announced that negotiations with Costco reached an abrupt standstill on January 7, 2025.

Tension ignited with parties after Teamsters filed unfair labor practice charges against the company, citing incidents such as the expulsion of union representatives, harassment of employees wearing union buttons, removal of union literature, and changes to locks on union bulletin boards.

After weeks of discord, Costco rejected several key proposals put forth by the Teamsters, including vital language concerning seniority, inclement weather policies, paid family leave, bereavement policies...

CME Group Announces Trading Hours for U.S. National Day of Mourning to Honor Former President Carter 

CME Group, the world's leading derivatives marketplace, has announced that it will honor the passing of former President Jimmy Carter by implementing an early close for agricultural, equity and interest rate markets on the National Day of Mourning on Thursday, January 9, 2025.

U.S. equity markets will be open until 8:30 a.m. CT on January 9. All U.S. equity options expiring on January 9 will be moved to expire on January 8.

Interest rates and agricultural markets... 

USMEF Explores Market Potential in Morocco During USDA Trade Mission

Risk mitigation and an underdeveloped supply-chain are among the market development challenges in this vital distribution hub for western Africa.

USMEF was among the 50 ag companies and organizations that recently visited Morocco during a trade mission hosted by USDA. Foreign Agricultural Service Administrator Daniel Whitley led the delegation, which participated in business-to-business meetings, met with Moroccan government officials, studied transportation logistics and visited retail and foodservice outlets in Casablanca. USMEF Africa Representatives Matt Copeland and Monty Brown, and USMEF Director of Trade Analysis Jessica Spreitzer... 

Einstein Bros. Bagels Celebrates National Bagel Day with Free Egg Sandwich

This National Bagel Day, everyone who's ready to give up a New Year's resolution that has them eating cardboard-tasting breakfast cereal can now embrace their cravings. Beginning January 15, Einstein Bros. Bagels Rewards members can 'give it up for Einstein Bros.' with a Free Egg Sandwich with purchase when ordering ahead in the app or online this month.

"Studies show that nearly half of New Year's resolutions are abandoned by the end of January," said Hector Briones, Chief Marketing Officer at Einstein Bros. Bagels. 

Cal-Maine Foods Posts $954.7M in Q2 Sales, Sets New Records Amid Expanding Operations

Cal-Maine Foods, the nation's largest producer and distributor of fresh shell eggs, has announced its financial results for the second quarter of the 2025 fiscal year. The company reported net sales of $954.7 million, marking a significant 82% increase compared to the same period in 2024. This growth was driven primarily by higher prices and strong demand for its products. This quarter the company also set a quarterly record for total dozens sold and specialty dozens sold... 

New Report: Walmart Increasing in Popularity Amidst Rising Prices

According to Packaged Facts’ new report The Walmart Grocery Shopper: Consumer Insights and Competitive Strategies, consumers have continued to be worried about the rising cost of food on top of already-high prices after excessive inflation hit consumer food budgets in 2022. Rising prices can be especially concerning for low-income households due to not having a lot of disposable income and families with children since they have more mouths to feed.

Higher costs have led to many consumers changing their thinking and behavior, including measures such as...

The Retail Rundown: Post-Holiday Slowdown Influences January Spending 

January typically marks a slowdown in consumer spending as households transition from the holiday season to their regular routines.

Early in the month, retailers experience a short-lived boost in sales, driven by replenishment efforts after the holiday food rush. As schools reopen and guests leave, families restock essentials for breakfast, lunch, and weeknight meals.

This restocking coincides with New Year’s resolutions, especially those focused on healthier eating. Consequently, shoppers gravitate toward the perimeter of the stores where fresh items, including produce, proteins, and dairy, are featured. Although retail...

USDA Imposes Animal Import Restrictions on Belize Due to Screwworm Threat

The United States Department of Agriculture's (USDA) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) issued a statement on January 7, 2025 regarding live animals originating from or transiting Belize.

Based on the confirmation of New World screwworm in cattle, restrictions have been imposed, effective January 3, 2025 until further notice on the importation of animal commodities.

The restriction omits the importation of dogs who carry a certificate confirming the animal has been inspected for screwworm within 5 days prior to its shipment to...

Panera Brands Announces Leadership Change, Appoints Paul Carbone as Interim CEO

Panera Brands, one of the world’s largest fast-casual restaurant platforms and the parent company to Panera Bread and Caribou Coffee, has announced a change in leadership.

José Alberto Dueñas, who served as CEO of Panera Bread for just over a year and a half, is stepping down from his role.

During his tenure, Dueñas earned praise from Board Chair Patrick Grismer for his efforts in revitalizing the company’s menu, improving business margins, and strengthening organizational structure. Grismer noted that Dueñas successfully positioned the...

Vertical Cold Storage Opens 10th Facility in Kansas City

Vertical Cold Storage, in collaboration with Platform Ventures, a real estate investment firm, has officially launched its 10th facility, a state-of-the-art multi-distribution center in Kansas City.

The facility is strategically located at 14820 Cleveland Ave, Kansas City, MO, next to the Canadian Pacific Kansas City (CPKC) intermodal terminal and within 30 miles of key BNSF, Union Pacific, and Norfolk Southern rail terminals.

Spanning over 311,000 square feet, the new center is expected to create more than 100 full-time jobs. Equipped with...