Expana's Weekly Top Ten: From Middle East Tensions to Tariff Refund Challenges

Welcome to this week's Top 10. In this edition, we've compiled original content pinpointing key developments affecting global markets and industries following the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.

This recap highlights ripple effects on oil prices and amino acid markets to impactful changes in US seafood consumption and tariff refunds. Additionally, explore shifts in dietary guidelines and new investments aimed at enhancing sustainability and traceability in the seafood sector. This list is in no particular order.

10. Stay informed with Expana's comprehensive coverage on global markets as...

Expansion, Acquisitions, and Promotions Lead Activity in Foodservice

In this first-half-of-March foodservice roundup, operators continue to pursue growth across global markets while leveraging promotions and partnerships to drive traffic. Highlights include new international franchise agreements, portfolio expansion through acquisition, and marketing activations tied to major cultural moments. From development in emerging markets to value-driven limited-time offers, brands are pairing expansion with targeted marketing to maintain momentum.

Expansion

The Wendy's Company is expanding its presence in Mexico with the announcement of two new franchise agreements, adding over 60 fresh Wendy's...

Day 14 of Iran War: US Temporarily Eases Russian Oil Sanctions; Shipping Risks Mount 

Israeli airstrikes have hit Tehran on the 14^th day of the Iran war as Iran and its allies launch retaliatory attacks across Gulf states, sharply escalating tensions across the region and disrupting global energy markets.

Shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, a vital route linking the Gulf to the Gulf of Oman, remains severely disrupted.

On Friday, the US issued a 30-day license for countries to buy Russian oil and petroleum products currently stranded at sea. Oil prices eased following the announcement, though prices are...

Importers Face Long Wait for Tariff Refunds

Importers across industries, expecting refunds of roughly $166 billion collected under now-invalidated emergency tariffs instituted by Trump, face a prolonged and uncertain wait. That is according to a government filing that estimated more than 4.4 million hours of manual processing to handle the claims.

After the Supreme Court struck down the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) tariffs last month, UW Customs and Border Protection (CBP) told the Court of International Trade that refunding duties from more than 53 million import entries, of which 20.1 million remain unliquidated, presents an unprecedented logistical...

Most of the US Rented Farmland is Owned by Non-Farmers

Over 2.0 million landowners rented out 348 million acres of farmland, according to the results of the 2024 Tenure, Ownership, and Transition of Agricultural Land (TOTAL) survey results released today by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS). Of these acres, 79% are owned by non-farming landlords.

Non-operating landlords include entities who rent out agricultural land under a variety of ownership arrangements (privately owned, trust, family entity, non-family entity, or other). Of the land rented out by non-operating landlords, over 251 million acres were rented out by private landowners, trusts, or family entities.

According to the survey results, rented farmland...

Commissioner Declares Georgia is “HPAI-Free” Following Detections in Three Commercial Flocks

Today, Georgia Agriculture Commissioner Tyler J Harper announced that the State of Georgia has officially regained its status as free of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) in poultry as of March 13th. This follows detections of HPAI at a single commercial poultry operation in Hart County and two in Walker County, marking seven detections of Avian Influenza in commercial poultry or waterfowl operations in the state since the nationwide outbreak began in 2022. This designation allows for the resumption of exports and international trade of Georgia poultry products as recognized by the World Organization for Animal Health (WOAH)...

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...

Poultry Shows, Exhibitions in Southern Wisconsin Counties Suspended Due to HPAI

In an effort to prevent the spread of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI), the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) is suspending all poultry shows, exhibitions, swap meets, and movement of poultry to other events in the following southern Wisconsin counties: Columbia, Crawford, Dane, Dodge, Grant, Green, Iowa, Jefferson, Kenosha, Lafayette, Milwaukee, Ozaukee, Racine, Richland, Rock, Sauk, Vernon, Walworth, Washington, and Waukesha...

Walmart Taps Erin Nealy Cox as Chief Legal Officer and Global Secretary

Walmart has announced the appointment of Erin Nealy Cox as Executive Vice President of Global Governance, Chief Legal Officer (CLO), and Corporate Secretary, effective April 13, 2026. Walmart’s Global Governance organization encompasses global legal, compliance, ethics, corporate governance, digital citizenship, enterprise risk management, litigation, aviation, investigations, and corporate security, including Walmart’s Global Security Operations Center.

"To lead Global Governance for a company of our scale and complexity, you need a leader who has thrived in the most demanding environments. Erin is exactly that leader," stated...

Day 13 of Iran War: Strait of Hormuz Tensions Continue, Brent Crude Tops $100 Again

US and Israeli strikes on Iran continued Thursday as the war entered its 13th day, while Tehran intensified retaliatory attacks that have unsettled global energy markets.

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian said Tehran could consider ending the war if its “legitimate rights” are acknowledged, reparations are paid, and binding international guarantees are put in place to prevent future attacks.

Maritime tensions are increasing around the Strait of Hormuz, with reports of tanker attacks off Iraq and drone strikes targeting energy infrastructure throughout the Gulf...

Rail Merger Would be Costly for Farmers

The proposed merger of the Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern railways would leave farmers with fewer transportation options and vulnerable to shipping cost increases at a time when balance sheets have been squeezed to the breaking point by rapidly rising input costs. Transportation, marketing and storage expenses are projected to rise to a record $14 billion in 2026. American Farm Bureau Federation economists analyzed the UP-NS merger in the latest Market Intel.

“The risk of the UP–NS merger is clear,” the Market Intel states. “It would leave farmers more dependent...

FMI Statement on February CPI Food Price Numbers

Today, FMI – The Food Industry Association commented on the February Consumer Price Index (CPI) numbers from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), which shows a 0.4% rise in food-at-home prices for January and a 2.4% increase over the last 12 months. FMI Vice President of Tax, Trade, Sustainability and Policy Development Andy Harig offered the following statement.   

“Today’s CPI numbers reflect an uneven grocery price environment and underscore the challenge in bringing down food inflation across all categories to more historical averages...

AEB Reorganizes Around Three Priorities Following Unanimous Vote in Support of Assessment Increase

Organization Will Focus on Growing Demand Globally and Supporting Farmers in Bold New Ways

The American Egg Board (AEB) has restructured its organization to further accelerate global demand growth, continue to support farmers through research and on-farm resource creation and maximize return on farmer investment. These organizational changes follow a unanimous October vote to petition United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) for a producer referendum that would double egg farmers’ assessments over the next eight years.

This strategic staff realignment focuses AEB’s anticipated expanded resources on...

Day 12 of Iran War: Oil Prices Rebound After Tuesday’s Slide; Maersk Reports Multiple Ships Stranded

On Day 12 of the US-Israel war on Iran, Israel continued its bombardment of Tehran and intensified its bombings across Lebanon. Iranian retaliatory strikes persist, as several Gulf states, including Kuwait, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates, report intercepting missiles and drones in their airspace.

The US military says it has destroyed 16 inactive Iranian mine-laying vessels, following a warning from US President Donald Trump of “grave consequences” if oil shipments through the Strait of Hormuz are disrupted...

Reach3 Insights Report Shows Shift in How Americans Grocery Shop

Reach3 Insights has released a study, Rethinking Routine: What's Really Happening in the Grocery Aisle, revealing that 81% of Americans are open to trying new grocery brands. This research indicates a shift from sticking with familiar brands to more thoughtful brand comparison, research, and evaluation.

"In this time of sustained economic volatility, the grocery aisle has become more evaluative, rather than CPG shopping being comprised of quick, non-conscious decisions," said Jonathan Dore, Executive Vice President at Reach3 Insights. "Shoppers, particularly younger generations...

Grubhub and Dexa Introduce New Jersey's First Drone‑Powered Food Delivery Program

Grubhub today announced a test program integrating Dexa's drone delivery service for customers ordering from Wonder's Green Brook, New Jersey location. The initiative marks a historic milestone for highly automated delivery in New Jersey and represents the first time drone technology will be used for commercial food delivery in the state.

Beginning March 18, eligible customers within a 2.5-mile delivery radius of Wonder's Green Brook location can order Wonder through the Grubhub app and opt for drone delivery...

The Retail Rundown: Grocers Refresh Promotions Ahead of Spring Holidays; CPI Meets Expectations 

With spring around the corner, grocers are leaning on improving weather and refreshed promotional campaigns to attract shoppers to the meat and seafood departments.

Seafood remains a main focus this week as the Lenten season continues, accounting for 27% of total protein promotions, tied with beef for the top spot. Pork follows with 24% of total advertised features, while chicken holds 15% of total protein ad space.

Within seafood, filets dominate promotional activity, with shrimp advertisements close behind. Last week, the fresh finfish category averaged $9.84 per pound...

USPOULTRY Foundation Supports Latin American Student Attendance at IPPE

As part of the ongoing efforts to support the recruitment and education of talented students while promoting careers in the poultry and egg industries worldwide, the USPOULTRY Foundation welcomed 14 students and their professors from seven universities across Latin America to attend the 2026 International Poultry Expo (IPE), part of the International Production & Processing Expo (IPPE).

Through participation in the USPOULTRY Foundation International Student Program, these students had the unique opportunity to connect with companies operating on a global scale. They also explored the vast IPPE trade show floor, which featured cutting-edge advancements in modern, sustainable poultry technology...

Farm Bureau President Offers Solutions to Increase Demand of Homegrown Food, Fiber & Renewable Fuel

American Farm Bureau President Zippy Duvall yesterday offered a variety of solutions for increasing demand of U.S.-grown agricultural goods during testimony before the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, & Forestry. He joined several other agriculture leaders to share priorities to address a structural imbalance that threatens both farmers’ livelihoods and food security in the U.S.

“We must strengthen domestic demand for American agricultural products. We must reinforce our production capacity of critical ag supplies and restore domestic processing capacity. We must ensure our safety nets are strong and expand fair and enforceable market access abroad,” Duvall noted in his opening comments...

USDA Announces New Funding to Connect Farmers to Local Markets

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) today announced it has awarded over $26.8 million to grant projects through the Local Agriculture Market Program (LAMP). The program helps local and regional food entities develop, coordinate, and expand producer-to-consumer marketing, local and regional food markets, and local food enterprises. LAMP includes the Farmers Market Promotion Program (FMPP), Local Food Promotion Program (LFPP), and the Regional Food System Partnerships (RFSP)...

Day 11: Trump Says Iran War Could End “Very Soon,” But Not This Week

On the 11th day of the US–Israel war on Iran, Tehran endured what officials described as some of the heaviest overnight bombardments so far.

Speaking on Monday, US President Donald Trump commented that the war could end “very soon,” but noted that it would not be over this week. 

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi responded that Iran would continue fighting for as long as necessary, casting doubt on Trump’s claim that the war may cease in the near future.

Crude oil prices fell more than 10% Tuesday...

Tyson's Jimmy Dean Breakfast Brand Takes Center Stage at Stagecoach Festival

Tyson Foods has teamed up with Stagecoach to spotlight its Jimmy Dean breakfast brand at the nation's largest country music festival, a three-day event in Indio, California.

“Stagecoach brings together a passionate community of country music fans in a setting where food, music, and lifestyle intersect, providing a powerful opportunity for us to meet new consumers where they are,” said Kristina Lambert, Chief Growth Officer at Tyson Foods. “Jimmy Dean offers protein-forward breakfast options to fuel busy lifestyle needs, whether at a festival or at home.”

United Natural Foods Reports Strong Profit Growth Amid Strategic Transitions in Q2

United Natural Foods (UNFI) has announced its financial results for the second quarter of fiscal 2026, revealing both challenges and opportunities ahead.

The company reported a 2.6% decline in net sales, bringing the total to $7.9 billion. This decrease was largely attributed to optimization actions, which impacted sales by nearly 500 basis points. A noteable factor in this shift was the transition out of the Allentown, Pennsylvania distribution center during the first quarter of fiscal 2026, leading to an anticipated drop...

Import Cargo Volume Expected to Be Down in First Half of 2026, But Too Soon to Tell Impact from Iran

Imports at major U.S. container ports are expected to remain below last year’s levels for the first half of 2026 amid ongoing tariff uncertainty, but it is too soon to gauge the impact of the conflict in Iran, according to the Global Port Tracker report released today by the National Retail Federation and Hackett Associates.

“The Supreme Court has struck down IEEPA tariffs but other tariffs have already been announced and others will be coming, so uncertainty continues for retailers...

Secretary Rollins Pens Op-Ed “One Farmer, One File Ushers in a New Era of Service at USDA”

U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins published an opinion piece in the Des Moines Register highlighting the need to modernize and streamline federal processes for producers, emphasizing the USDA’s new “One Farmer, One File” initiative, which replaces hundreds of outdated systems with a single, unified digital record designed to cut red tape, accelerate approvals, and deliver program funds to farmers more efficiently.

“Recently USDA rolled out the “One Farmer, One File” initiative, which puts Farmers First by improving how they interact with USDA. This modernization effort replaces an antiquated system...

AFBF Calls for Intervention to Prevent Food Supply Shocks

U.S. farmers are bracing for a system shock resulting from the disruptions to shipping through the Strait of Hormuz and the impact on fertilizer availability and prices. American Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall today urged President Trump to intervene in a letter that lays out several recommendations.

The letter states, “Like oil, global fertilizer markets are highly vulnerable to disruptions in maritime transit routes, especially through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical shipping corridor for key fertilizer materials and finished fertilizer. Further, the recent energy production halts in the Middle...

Crude Oil Set for Record Daily Surge as Iran War Enters Tenth Day

On Monday, the United States and Israel continued their attacks on Iran during the tenth day of the war, with Israeli strikes on oil facilities in Iran causing toxic smoke across Tehran. 

Meanwhile, Iranian forces sustained their retaliatory strikes on US military assets and other key infrastructure in Kuwait, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE. The latest Iranian attacks on Bahrain have damaged a water desalination plant.

More than a week after the assassination of Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in US-Israeli strikes...

Kroger Brings Back Customer Appreciation Week with Special Savings

The Kroger Co. today announced the return of its mega-sales event honoring customers with the retailer's hottest deals and exclusive savings during Kroger's Customer Appreciation Week running March 11-17.

"Customer Appreciation Week is one of our biggest savings events of the year, featuring can't-miss deals, special offers and exclusive discounts for our customers," said Mary Ellen Adcock, Kroger Executive Vice President and Chief Merchant and Marketing Officer. "Whether families are preparing for spring celebrations or stocking up for spring break, Kroger is committed...

ANALYSIS: Cage-Free Market Rebounds Sharply as Demand Surges 

The cage-free market, along with conventional, has seen a sharp rebound over the past week, with the rest-of-market cage-free quote climbing 46.8% to $1.16/dozen. The turnaround has been driven in part by renewed HPAI concerns, stronger retail demand across much of the US, and earlier-than-usual Easter-related procurement, prompting suppliers to hold product more confidently as additional sales channels have opened. 

A notable shift in retail pricing has played a key role...

GCCA Joins Forces with Food Industry FSMA 204 Collaboration to Enhance Food Safety Awareness

The Global Cold Chain Alliance (GCCA) has joined the Food Industry FSMA 204 Collaboration to increase awareness of the United States (US)  Food And Drug Administration's (FDA's) Food Traceability Rule, a key part of the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) focused on improving food tracking systems.

FSMA Rule 204 requires thorough tracking of high-risk foods on the FDA's Food Traceability List (FTL) to enhance outbreak response and supply chain transparency. With supply chains growing complex, the cold chain sector plays a vital role in ensuring not...

US-Israel War on Iran Enters Seventh Day Amid Ongoing Strikes and Regional Fallout

The US-Israel war on Iran has entered its seventh day, with strikes continuing across the Middle East. 

Regional impacts are mounting. In Kuwait and Bahrain, missile attacks from Iran were intercepted, with a fire contained at a Bahraini oil refinery. The UAE and Qatar faced multiple missile and drone strikes, while Tel Aviv was targeted in Iran’s attacks.

Israel intensified its bombardment in Lebanon, and Azerbaijan suspended cross-border traffic following drone attacks...

Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza Confirmed in Jefferson County

The Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) has identified a case of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in a commercial poultry flock in Jefferson County.

DATCP and the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) animal health officials are working together in a joint incident response. The affected premises has been quarantined to restrict movement of poultry and poultry products. Birds on the property will be depopulated to prevent the spread of the disease. Birds from the flock will not enter the food system.

The H5N1 HPAI virus has continued to circulate in both wild and domestic birds in North America since December 2021...

American Egg Board Applauds USDA’s Continued Focus on Real Food and Protein Access 

The American Egg Board (AEB) commends the U. S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) announcement of new staple food requirements for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and the launch of Dietary Guidelines for Americans Strategic Partnerships. Both efforts prioritize real food and ensure American families have access to affordable, nutrient-dense options like eggs. 

The new SNAP stocking standards nearly double the number of healthy food options available to recipients, with a clear focus on protein...

Sysco Announces CFO Transition Process

Sysco Corporation (NYSE:SYY) (“Sysco” or the “company”) today announced that Kenny Cheung, Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, will step down to accept an opportunity at a Fortune 10 company in a different industry. Effective March 6, 2026, Sysco has appointed Brandon Sewell, a long-serving and accomplished leader within Sysco’s finance organization, as Interim CFO. Cheung will remain with the Company until April 17, 2026, to ensure a smooth transition.

Sewell joined Sysco in 2014 and has held various management roles of increasing responsibility within Sysco’s finance organization, most recently serving as Senior Vice President and CFO...

OKFB Congratulates Sen. Mullin, Thanks Him for Service in US Senate

Oklahoma Farm Bureau President Stacy Simunek issued the following statement after President Donald Trump announced the selection of U.S. Sen. Markwayne Mullin to serve as Homeland Security Secretary.

“Oklahoma Farm Bureau members extend a warm and well-deserved congratulations to Oklahoma Sen. Markwayne Mullin on his selection as the U.S. Homeland Security Secretary.

“Throughout his time in Congress, Sen. Mullin has been a steadfast advocate for rural Oklahoma and our family farmers and ranchers. As both a senator and house member, he has served...

Researchers Evaluate Utilizing Carbonized Feathers for Poultry Odor Control

USPOULTRY and the USPOULTRY Foundation announce a newly finalized research project which uses feather-derived activated carbon and visible-light photocatalysis to reduce ammonia and odors in commercial poultry houses. Tested in a full-scale broiler facility, the system achieved consistent ammonia reductions under commercial conditions. This innovative approach, led by a team of researchers from Georgia Southern University, supports improved bird welfare, worker safety, environmental sustainability and circular use of poultry byproducts. The research is part of the Association’s comprehensive research program encompassing all phases of poultry and...

General Mills Names Jonathan Ness Chief Supply Chain Officer

General Mills (NYSE: GIS) today announced Jonathan Ness has been named Chief Supply Chain Officer, effective March 16, 2026. He will report to Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Jeff Harmening, join the company’s Senior Leadership Team and have accountability for the company's global supply chain operations.

“Jon has been a driving force in shaping our supply chain organization, leading critical strategy and transformation initiatives throughout his tenure at General Mills,” said Harmening. “He is a people-first leader and well-positioned to continue our important work driving end-to-end supply chain performance, resilience and operational excellence.”

The United States and Mexico Launch Review Process of the USMCA

Today, US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer and Mexican Secretary of Economy Marcelo Ebrard announced the first round of bilateral discussions in preparation for the Joint Review of the United States–Mexico–Canada Agreement (USMCA).

The ministers instructed negotiators to begin a scoping discussion on the necessary measures to ensure the benefits of the Agreement accrue primarily to the parties, including by reducing dependence on imports from outside the region, strengthening rules of origin, and enhancing the security of North American supply chains...

US–Israel War on Iran Escalates With New Strikes, Senate Backs Trump’s War Powers

On the sixth day of the US-Israeli war on Iran, new strikes hit Iran and the wider region, with explosions reported again in Tehran. Israel has launched attacks on the Lebanese capital, Beirut, and multiple waves of Iranian missiles were fired toward Israel overnight.

The US Senate rejected a measure to limit US President Donald Trump’s war powers as Washington signaled deeper strikes in Iran, following a US torpedo attack that sank an Iranian warship near Sri Lanka. The war appears likely to persist, with US officials signaling operations could last weeks...

CRA Welcomes Farm Bill Progress

Corn Refiners Association President and CEO John Bode released the following statement after the House Agriculture Committee advanced the Farm, Food, and National Security Act of 2026.

"The House Agriculture Committee's passage of the Farm, Food, and National Security Act of 2026 is an important step toward delivering the certainty American farmers, refiners, and rural communities need to succeed and thrive," said Bode. "Growing the American ag bioeconomy is not just a bipartisan, bicameral effort, it's a national security imperative and an economic necessity...

Farm Bureau Applauds Bipartisan Passage of Farm Bill in House Ag Committee

American Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall tonight applauds the bipartisan passage of the Farm, Food, and National Security Act of 2026 in the House Agriculture Committee.

“Farm Bureau appreciates the leadership of Chairman Thompson and applauds supportive members of the committee on both sides of the aisle for recognizing that a new farm bill is critical as farmers face headwinds not seen in a generation. The farm bill has a ripple effect across the country by supporting the farmers who grow the food that stocks every kitchen pantry in America...

Farmers Impacted by Fuel and Fertilizer Volatility

American Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall commented today on potential fuel and fertilizer supply issues following military action in Iran.

"We are hearing a groundswell of concern from farmers facing increased volatility in fertilizer and fuel prices, as well as some reports of companies freezing fertilizer sales, at a critical time with planting season coming into full swing. History teaches us that energy market shocks quickly reach the farm gate and countries in and around the Persian Gulf account for a large share of fertilizer supplies our farmers rely on, so it’s a serious issue. We’ve alert...

USDA Announces New Partnerships to Advance MAHA Agenda

Today, US Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins, joined by US Secretary of Health and Human Services Robert F. Kennedy. Jr., and National Nutrition Advisor at the US Department of Agriculture (USDA) Dr. Ben Carson announced the USDA's commencement of the Dietary Guidelines for Americans Strategic Partnerships, an effort which encourages the private sector to participate in educating the American people about the importance of the Guidelines and how they serve as the foundation to better eating...

US‑Israeli Strikes on Iran Enter Fifth Day as Shipping Companies Divert Vessels 

The United States and Israel have launched strikes against Iran for a fifth day, targeting military, government, and nuclear-related sites in and around Tehran. In response, Iran has launched retaliatory missiles and drones, striking energy infrastructure and diplomatic compounds across the Gulf.

The conflict is expanding regionally, with heightened security alerts across Gulf states and reports of damage to civilian and economic infrastructure. The Strait of Hormuz, a vital global energy chokepoint, has experienced significant disruptions threatening worldwide oil flows...

The Retail Rundown: 21st Annual Power of Meat Report Sees Sales Soar to Fresh Record

Meat sales climbed to a new record of $112 billion in 2025, up 2% from the prior year, according to the 21st annual Power of Meat report released at the Annual Meat Conference by the Meat Institute and FMI—The Food Industry Association.

The report found meat remains a near-universal staple, with 98% of US households purchasing meat. For retailers, this underscores the importance of keeping meat and poultry front and center to capture consumer spending, especially as health and wellness trends continue to drive demand for protein...

Iran War Enters Fourth Day, Driving Higher Crude Prices and Broad Commodity Swings

The US-Israeli war on Iran intensified into its fourth day, with Tehran reporting a death toll of 787 as strikes continue to target leadership and infrastructure. Israel’s campaign, initially described as a two-week operation, is reportedly advancing faster than expected, with no firm end date signaled. US President Donald Trump said the war could last four to five weeks.

Global markets remain on edge. Crude oil surged nearly 4% in overnight trade, while European equities fell sharply. US stock futures also pointed lower, with the three major indices last shedding about 2%...

Brinker International Promotes George Felix to Lead Marketing for Chili's and Maggiano's

Brinker International has promoted George Felix to Executive Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer, where he will spearhead marketing efforts for both Chili's® Grill & Bar and Maggiano's Little Italy.

Felix, who joined Brinker in 2022 as Senior Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer of Chili's, has been praised for his success in revitalizing legacy brands.

In this expanded role, he will now bring his strategic vision to Maggiano's as part of their "Back to Maggiano's" initiative. Felix...

Cal-Maine Foods Announces Acquisition of Creighton Brothers LLC

Cal-Maine Foods, Inc. (NASDAQ: CALM), the largest egg company in the United States and a leading player in the egg-based food industry, today announced the acquisition of the shell egg, egg products, and prepared foods assets of Creighton Brothers LLC, including Crystal Lake LLC, for a total purchase price of approximately $128.5 million, subject to customary post-closing adjustments. Cal-Maine Foods is funding the acquisition with available cash on hand.

Established in 1925, Creighton Brothers produces, grades, and packages high-quality conventional and specialty shell eggs for...

How the US‑Iran Conflict Is Affecting Global Commodity Markets

US and Israeli strikes on Iran over the weekend, which killed Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, have sparked significant disruptions in energy, freight, and wider commodity and agricultural markets.

Oil surged at the start of the week, global stock markets wavered, and the energy and shipping sectors have become central to an escalating crisis as commercial traffic through the Strait of Hormuz has halted to a near standstill. 

On Monday, the US-Israeli air campaign against Iran escalated, extending the conflict to Lebanon as Israel responded to strikes by...

ANALYSIS: International Trade Summary for US Eggs in 2025

ANALYSIS: US Cage-Free Market Decline Continues as Spot Quote Hits Record Low 

The Expana rest-of-market cage-free quote fell to $0.79/dozen on Thursday afternoon, marking an all-time low since the assessment began in January...

Expana Webinar on March 3: The Expanding Impact of Hormuz Disruption

Escalating conflict in the Middle East has triggered significant volatility across global energy, shipping and commodity markets, with transit through the Strait of Hormuz severely disrupted. Crude oil prices have surged, tanker traffic has slowed, and risk premiums are rising as geopolitical tensions intensify. The implications extend beyond energy, with emerging knock-on effects across fertilizers, agriculture and global food markets.  

Expana will host a live Intelligence Briefing delivering coordinated, cross-market analysis of this fast-moving situation. Our specialists will assess the impact on

Expana's Weekly Top 10: Markets Rally After SCOTUS Tariff Ruling, Section 122 Takes Center Stage

Welcome to Expana's Weekly Top 10 Stories, where we highlight the week's most significant events and trends across various sectors.

This edition features a crucial Supreme Court tariff ruling that leads to strategic pivots by the administration, a major sustainability-focused investment in China's industrial sector, and pivotal European Commission proposals affecting the fertilizer market.

We also cover notable shifts in the foodservice industry, dramatic agricultural incidents, and key economic indicators suggesting potential inflationary pressures. Explore these stories for a concise overview of impactful...

Senate Democrats Introduce Tariff Refund Act to Reclaim $175B in IEEPA Duties

A coalition of democrats senators introduced legislation that would require refunds of President Trump’s reciprocal tariffs, which were shot down last week by the US Supreme Court.

Senate Finance Committee Ranking Member Ron Wyden, D-Ore., Small Business Committee Ranking Member Edward J. Markey, D-Mass., and Foreign Relations Committee Ranking Member Jeanne Shaheen, D-N.H., released the Tariff Refund Act of 2026 on February 26. The bill was co-sponsored by over 23 senators.

According to the US Senate Finance Committee, the Trump administration...

Loblaw® and Flashfood Helped Canadians Save $58 Million on Groceries in 2025

Loblaw® and Flashfood mark another successful year of impact, delivering meaningful savings to customers while advancing efforts to reduce food waste across Canada. Through the program, quality food nearing its best-before date ends up on tables instead of going to waste – creating value for customers and reducing environmental impact across hundreds of Loblaw® banner stores nationwide.

In 2025, this partnership saw more than 21 million pounds¹ of food diverted from landfill and saved customers more than $58 million on groceries. The partnership also continued to expand its...

Albertsons® Companies Appoints Brian Rice to Board of Directors

Albertsons® Companies, Inc. (NYSE: ACI) (“the Company”) today announced the appointment of Brian Rice to its Board of Directors, effective Feb. 25, 2026. The Company’s board has now expanded to 11 members.

Mr. Rice is a seasoned global technology executive with more than 30 years of experience leading large-scale digital transformation, technology modernization, and operational excellence across some of the world’s most recognized consumer brands. He currently serves as Executive Vice President and Global Chief Information Officer at McDonald’s Corporation, where he is a member of the company’s...

USPOULTRY Foundation Supports Attendance of FFA Students and Ag Teachers at IPPE 2026

The top 11 teams from the National FFA Poultry Evaluation and Food Science and Technology Career Development Events (CDEs) were invited to attend the International Poultry Expo (IPE), part of the 2026 International Production & Processing Expo (IPPE). This opportunity was made possible through the USPOULTRY Foundation’s ongoing efforts to inspire students to explore careers in the poultry and egg industry. As part of the initiative, the selected teams received an all-expense paid trip and had the opportunity to explore the vast IPPE trade show floor...

New FMI Research Reveals How the Food Industry Is Supporting Consumers’ Evolving Health Priorities

Today [February 26, 2026], FMI – The Food Industry Association unveils the findings of the 2026 Report on Food Industry Contributions to Health & Well-Being following the recently released Dietary Guidelines for Americans (DGAs) and ahead of National Nutrition Month®. The report offers insights into the industry’s efforts to serve as a destination for health and well-being and drive meaningful progress by providing grocery shoppers with products, resources and services that support their individual health goals...

Farm Bureau Welcomes USDA’s Streamlined Efforts

American Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall commented today on USDA’s new “One Farmer, One File” initiative, which promises to streamline efforts to make its services more efficient for farmers and ranchers across the country.

“Farmers and ranchers rely on USDA for up-to-date resources to keep our businesses running and our food supply secure. Today’s announcement is welcome news to ensure farmers quickly receive the information and resources they need...

USDA Launches ‘One Farmer, One File’ Initiative to Better Support Farmers

Today at the Commodity Classic Convention in San Antonio, Texas, U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins announced the “One Farmer, One File” modernization, another action putting Farmers First with sweeping technological improvements at the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). Through “One Farmer, One File,” USDA’s mission is to create a single, streamlined record that follows the farmer — no matter where they go in the USDA system.

“Every single day at USDA, our focus is on making life easier, more profitable and more rewarding for the American farmer,” said Secretary Brooke Rollins...

NRF Foundation and PepsiCo Foundation Launch Retail Training Fund to Advance Career Readiness

The National Retail Federation Foundation and the PepsiCo Foundation today announced the launch of the NRF Foundation Retail Training Fund, a new partnership designed to strengthen career readiness and economic mobility by expanding access to essential retail skills training and credentials.

The PepsiCo Foundation intends to contribute $1 million over three years to catalyze this transformative initiative. The fund will provide critical support to workforce development organizations, community colleges and select educational institutions to equip individuals with the skills and credentials needed to secure meaningful employment...

ANALYSIS: EU Egg Supply Tightens Ahead of Easter

In the run-up to Easter, market participants describe the EU egg sector as increasingly delicate, not because of a single disruptive event, but because of how little spare capacity remains in the system. Several traders and packers say production has been running close to planned levels for months, leaving limited flexibility to respond to shifts in demand. As one source noted, “there is simply less room to adjust than there used to be.”

Buyers across retail and food manufacturing are said to be acting cautiously. According to industry...

Eggs Up Grill Names Seasoned Restaurant Finance Leader Kayla Money as Chief Financial Officer

Eggs Up Grill, the fastest-growing "better breakfast" restaurant franchise in the country, has appointed Kayla Money as chief financial officer. She brings more than a decade of financial leadership experience in the restaurant industry to the growing breakfast, brunch and lunch franchise.

Money joins Eggs Up Grill from Denny's Corporation, where she most recently served as senior director of enterprise FP&A and investor relations, leading enterprise forecasting and long-range financial planning for the national restaurant brand...

Vital Farms Reports Fourth Quarter and Fiscal Year 2025 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 fourth quarter and fiscal year ended December 28, 2025.

Financial highlights for the fourth quarter ended December 28, 2025, compared to the fourth quarter ended December 29, 2024, include:

• Net Revenue increased 28.7% to $213.6 million, compared to $166.0 million
• Gross Margin of 35.8%, compared to 36.1%
• Net Income of $16.3 million, compared to $10.6 million
• Net Income per Diluted Share of $0.35, compared to $0.23
• Adjusted EBITDA of $29.2 million, compared to $19.1 million

Farm Bureau Calls on House Agriculture Committee to Pass Farm Bill

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

“Farmers appreciate the work Chairman G.T. Thompson and the House Agriculture Committee have done in drafting a new, modernized farm bill. It will provide much-needed certainty for farmers who are facing record high expenses and historically low crop prices.

“The bill updates important food and farm programs, enhances conservation efforts, bolsters assistance to specialty crops, and makes critical investments in agricultural research. We urge House Agriculture Committee members to...

Rollins, Vaden, and Forst Announce Disposal of Dilapidated USDA Facilities

Today, U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins and Deputy Secretary Stephen A. Vaden, joined by General Services Administrator Edward C. Forst, announced the imminent disposal of the South Building and Braddock Place, returning resources to the American taxpayer, effectuating the vision of President Donald J. Trump, and reducing the real estate footprint of the U.S. Government in the National Capital Region...

Panera Bread Introduces New Value with Mix & Match Menu

Panera Bread is giving value a fresh upgrade with the launch of its new Mix & Match value menu, introducing a new kind of deal that redefines the traditional value experience. Built around the brand’s signature soups, salads and sandwiches, the offering delivers satisfying combinations made with high-quality ingredients . 

The new Mix & Match Menu allows guests to combine up to ten Panera favorites , each priced at $4.99*, marking the first time the bakery-café has introduced a dedicated value menu of this...

The Retail Rundown: Winter’s Grip Lingers as Lent Lifts Seafood Features

As the last week of February winds down, retailers are eager to move beyond the month’s typical slowdown and pivot toward spring. Still, harsh winter weather, including a recent blizzard in the Northeast, has kept many shoppers in stock-up mode, with warmer days feeling distant for some.

Feature activity remains solid across the protein complex. Seafood commands 33% of total ad space, followed by pork at 22%. Beef accounts for about 20%, while chicken represents just over 15%. Egg promotions rose to 6%, up 2 points week-over-week...

OpenTable Launches New Media Network, Connecting Brands with Millions of Global Diners

OpenTable, a global leader in restaurant tech, today announced the launch of its new media solution, OpenTable Media, unlocking paid partnerships and advertising on the platform. The new offering positions OpenTable as a valuable, full-service media partner for a wide range of brands looking to reach consumers through differentiated channels and experiences.

OpenTable Media enables brands to build customized campaigns across multiple touch points in the diner journey, from discovery to booking, helping them reach new audiences, leverage strategic distribution channels, and better understand customer behavior.

Quad A Farms Recognized for Environmental Excellence by USPOULTRY

Owned and operated by Will and Hannah Anderson and their family, Quad A Farms of Register, Ga., was one of five farms across the U.S. to receive the U.S. Poultry & Egg Association’s (USPOULTRY) Family Farm Environmental Excellence Award during the 2026 International Production & Processing Expo in Atlanta. USPOULTRY sponsors the annual awards to recognize exemplary environmental stewardship by family farmers engaged in poultry and egg production.

Applicants were rated in several categories: nutrient management planning, implementation of novel sustainability practices, community involvement...

America’s Rethinking Meal Planning: New Report Finds Frozen Foods Becoming a Kitchen Essential

New market data shows that frozen food is becoming a meal-planning essential for today’s consumers. As the national conversation about food, health, and affordability is intensifying, research unveiled at AFFI-CON finds millions of families see practical answers for this conversation in the frozen food aisle.

The American Frozen Food Institute (AFFI) and FMI – the Food Industry Association released the fourth edition of the Power of Frozen in Retail report, outlining a key trend: frozen food has moved from a backup option to a core element of meal-planning for a growing share of American households...

Introducing Scintilla In-Store: The Future of Third-Party Retail Execution at Walmart

Today, Walmart Data Ventures is introducing Scintilla In-Store, a transformative platform for supplier field representatives that connects data to action at the store level. As the newest addition to the Scintilla portfolio, Scintilla In-Store unifies essential tools, real-time data, actionable metrics, and supplier-assigned tasks in a single app. By integrating these capabilities, the platform helps reduce out-of-stocks, streamline execution, and deliver a seamless omni-shopping experience.

Building on the vision of Scintilla, Walmart’s first-party insights...

Hardee's® Goes Big on Protein with New Frisco Lineup

Hardee's is bringing back a lineup of limited-time favorites that prove the brand's promise of quality, taste and indulgence. From a breakfast that works hard for hard workers to a limited-time protein packed experience and scratch-made biscuits, these returning menu items showcase everything Hardee's customers love about the brand.

Frisco Your Way All Day

Hardee's is introducing an all-new Frisco Breakfast Burger for a limited time. Available from February 18 through May 12, guests can start their day with a hearty breakfast...

ANALYSIS: Regional Self-Sufficiency and Freight Economics Weigh on US Cage-Free Market

The cage-free market remains under pressure this week as sluggish nationwide demand and shifting regional logistics reshape traditional trade flows. While more than 8.5 million layers have been lost to HPAI in 2026, roughly 80% of those losses have been concentrated in the Northeast. As a result, the Northeast is one of the few regions showing meaningful buying interest, though the impact on the broader spot market has been limited thus far. Retail, foodservice, further processing, and export demand all remain subdued, leaving spot market interest thin and supplies long across both cage-free and conventional segments...

Industry Responds to US Supreme Court Decision Overturning Trump’s Emergency Tariffs

The US Supreme Court’s decision Friday to overturn Donald Trump’s emergency tariffs prompted swift reaction from businesses and trade associations across multiple sectors. The ruling removes a key pillar of the administration’s trade policy and could trigger a complex process to unwind the levies and issue refunds.

Here’s the response from industry groups:

David French, Executive Vice President of Government Relations, The National Retail Federation:

“The Supreme Court’s announcement today regarding tariffs provides much-needed certainty for US businesses and manufacturers, enabling global supply chains to...

FMI Statement on SCOTUS Decision on Reciprocal Tariffs

Today [February 20, 2026], FMI – The Food Industry Association commented on the U.S. Supreme Court’s ruling on the Trump administration’s reciprocal tariffs levied under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act. FMI President and CEO Leslie G. Sarasin offered the following statement. 

“We are continuing to review the ruling and its impact on FMI members. This decision raises many questions that must be answered quickly to minimize confusion in the marketplace. We urge Congress, the Trump administration and other relevant stakeholders to work together to establish a process that provides clarity for food businesses and the American consumers they serve every day...

Meat Institute: Supreme Court Strikes Down IEEPA Tariffs 

In a 6-3 decision today, the United States Supreme Court (the Court) ruled that President Trump exceeded his authority by invoking the 1977 International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) to impose sweeping tariffs on imports to the U.S. IEEPA was used by the Trump Administration last year to levy tariffs on the majority of imports to the U.S. Other tariffs, enacted using Section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act of 1962 and Section 301of the Trade Act of 1974, are not subject to this...

AFBF Statement on Supreme Court Tariff Ruling

American Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall commented today on the Supreme Court’s decision to strike down the administration’s use of tariffs.

“America’s farmers understand the president’s efforts to use tariffs to create a more level playing field for U.S. goods, U.S. workers and the U.S. economy. Unfortunately, trade disruptions and declining prices for agricultural goods created additional hardships for farmers who came into 2025 already dealing with crippling inflation and declining farm prices. We appreciate the President responding to trade and market disruptions by delivering important financial assistance. Open and fair markets are critical to help rebuild the farm economy.

The SCOTUS Decision Is In: IEEPA Tariffs Are Out

On February 20, the US Supreme Court (SCOTUS) judges released their decision about the legality of US President Trump’s use of the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) to impose “reciprocal tariffs” on US trading partners across the globe. 

“IEEPA does not authorize the President to impose tariffs. The judgment... is vacated, and the case is remanded with instructions to dismiss for lack of jurisdiction,” read the latest Opinion of the Court for Learning Resources, Inc. v. Trump. 

Chief Justice John Roberts wrote the majority opinion and the court agreed 6-3 that the tariffs exceeded the law...

Governor Newsom Calls for Immediate Tariff Refund Checks Following Court Ruling Against Trump

Governor Gavin Newsom today called on the Trump Administration to immediately issue refund checks — with interest — to American families and businesses after the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that President Donald Trump’s sweeping tariffs were illegal.

“Time to pay the piper, Donald. These tariffs were nothing more than an illegal cash grab that drove up prices and hurt working families, so you could wreck longstanding alliances and extort them. Every dollar unlawfully taken must be refunded immediately — with interest. Cough up!”

Governor Gavin Newsom

The Court’s 6-3 decision confirmed what Governor Newsom argued from the beginning in California’s lawsuit: President Trump lacked...

Expana Weekly Top 10: Trade Turbulence, Retail Shifts, and Weather-Driven Market Disruption

Welcome to this week's edition of the Expana's Weekly Top 10, where we dive into the latest developments across global markets and industries. This week, we explore insights from Fruit Logistica 2026 with Thess Mostoles, highlighting resilience in fresh produce markets amid supply chain challenges. The impact of extreme weather on European agriculture and shifts in retail amid Lent's seafood demand also take center stage. Additionally, we cover significant trade and economic issues, from Wendy's planned closures and Hormel's divestiture...

NRF Responds to Supreme Court Ruling on Tariffs

The National Retail Federation today issued the following statement from Executive Vice President of Government Relations David French in response to the Supreme Court’s ruling regarding the Trump administration’s use of the International Emergency Economic Powers Act to impose tariffs.

"The Supreme Court’s announcement today regarding tariffs provides much-needed certainty for U.S. businesses and manufacturers, enabling global supply chains to operate without ambiguity. Clear and consistent trade policy is essential for economic growth, creating jobs and opportunities for American families...

Ajinomoto Foods North America, Inc. Recalls Chicken Fried Rice Products 

Ajinomoto Foods North America, Inc., a Portland, Ore. establishment, is recalling approximately 3,370,530 pounds of frozen not ready-to-eat (NRTE) chicken fried rice products that may be contaminated with foreign material, specifically glass, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today.

The NRTE chicken fried rice items were produced between September 8, 2025, and November 17, 2025. The following products are subject to recall:

• 1.53-kg. cardboard packages containing 6 bags of frozen “AJINOMOTO YAKITORI CHICKEN WITH JAPANESE-STYLE FRIED RICE” with BEST BEFORE/MEILLEUR AVANT dates 26 SE 09 through 26 NO 12.

• 20-oz. (1 lb. 4 oz.) plastic bag packages containing frozen “TRADER JOE’S Chicken Fried Rice...

Ambassador Greer Issues Statement on President Trump Announcing a Trade Deal with Indonesia

Today [February 19, 2026], Ambassador Greer issued a statement following President Trump’s announcement of the Agreement on Reciprocal Trade with Indonesia, expanding Americans’ market access to the world’s fourth most populous country while eliminating tariff barriers on over 99% of U.S. products exported to Indonesia across all sectors.

“President Trump is unlocking Indonesia’s market of over 280 million people to create commercially meaningful opportunities for American farmers and manufacturers,” said Ambassador Greer. “This landmark Agreement breaks down trade barriers while advancing the economic and national security interests of...

IPPE Reports Largest Trade Show Floor Ever and Reveals New Logo

The International Production & Processing Expo (IPPE) had a successful 2026 expo with the largest trade show floor in its history covering 662,214 square feet of exhibit space with 1,375 exhibitors. Recognized as the world’s largest annual event for the animal food, meat, poultry and egg industries, IPPE also ranks among the 25 largest trade shows in the United States. IPPE is sponsored by the U.S. Poultry & Egg Association, American Feed Industry Association and the Meat Institute.

The 2026 IPPE had 32,550 registered attendees from the poultry...

Walmart Reports Strong Growth in Sales and Revenue in Q4 and Fiscal Results

Walmart has unveiled impressive quarterly and yearly results, demonstrating robust growth across various segments and maintaining its market-leading position.

Walmart President and CEO said, "The pace of change in retail is accelerating. It’s exciting. And our financial results show that we’re not only embracing this change, we’re leading it. For our customers and members, the future is fast, convenient, and personalized.”

Here's a closer look at Walmart's impressive Q4 and fiscal year performance.

Highlights from Q4...

What Restaurants Need to Succeed: Immigration Reform, Competitive Swipe Fees, & Strong Trade Policy

The National Restaurant Association today released ambitious federal policy priorities that when achieved, will help stabilize the industry workforce, support industry employment growth, cut costs for restaurant operators, and preserve the global supply chain. The priorities include:

• Comprehensive immigration reform
• Bringing down operator costs through passage of Credit Card Competition Act
• Favorable renewal of the U.S.-Mexico-Canada trade agreement (USMCA)

The restaurant and foodservice industry is the nation's second-largest private employer, with more than 15.7 million people...

OKFB Members Discuss MAHA, Legislative Outlook at Annual Leadership Conference

Oklahoma Farm Bureau members made the trek to Oklahoma City for the organization’s annual leadership conference on Tuesday, Feb. 17.

More than 150 members had the opportunity to learn from industry leaders and fellowship with other Farm Bureau members and state legislators during the one-day event as they honed their leadership skills and received updates on several top issues facing agriculture.

The conference kicked off with an update on the Make America Healthy Again initiative with Corteva’s Warren Mayberry and John Campbell of the Southern Crop Production...

Carbone Fine Food Welcomes Jeff Stoeckel as President

Today, Carbone Fine Food announced the appointment of its new President, Jeff Stoeckel.

In his career, Stoeckel has led growth and transformation for prominent companies like Stumptown Coffee Roasters before it was acquired by Peet's Coffee & Tea, and most recently at LesserEvil, where he drove strategy and product innovation. Notably, Stoeckel has played a pivotal role in launching ButcherBox into Target stores nationwide, an initiative set for January 2026.

"Carbone is entering the next phase of its rapid growth," said Eric Skae...

Wynn Resorts and Chef's Table Announce Global Partnership Debuting This Fall

Wynn Resorts and Chef's Table, the brand behind the award-winning Netflix culinary documentary series, are embarking on a new global partnership with a culinary tour-de-force celebration this fall. The partnership will combine world-class dining offerings with an impressive lineup of talent from the renowned series to create and produce original and meaningful programming.

In September, Chef's Table will transform Revelry, the tasting experience at Wynn Las Vegas, into Wynn Revelry by Chef's Table – bringing together...

Walmart Achieves Record Grocery Growth as Consumer Habits Shift 

According to a quarterly study by dunnhumby, Walmart's grocery penetration in the US has reached a record 72%, driven by the improved financial security of American shoppers aged 18-54. This represents a 6 percentage point increase year-over-year (YOY), the largest growth among all retailers.

Walmart serves over 190 million Americans monthly, 2.5 times more than the second-place Dollar General at 28.6%. The data reveals that mass-channel retailers have, for the first time, equaled traditional supermarkets with a 79% penetration rate...

The Retail Rundown: Retail Focus Turns to Lent Promotions

This week in retail, attention is focused on Lent and the broader economic landscape, with inflation back in the spotlight following the latest Consumer Price Index (CPI) release. Although overall inflation showed signs of cooling, food costs continue to edge higher on a monthly basis, keeping value messaging front and center as grocers work to attract price-sensitive consumers.

With the Christian Lenten season now underway, retailers are pivoting quickly. The 40-day period of fasting and reduced meat consumption among Catholics is traditionally a tailwind for seafood, and grocers are leaning into features and promotional pricing to capture traffic...

Seek Labs Awarded $2 Million Federal Grant for a Novel CRISPR-Based Therapeutic to Combat Avian Flu

Seek Labs, a private TechBio company building a programmable disease response platform to detect, protect, and counter disease threats, has been awarded $2 million from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) to develop a novel, mutation-resistant therapeutic for highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) using the company’s proprietary Programmable Target Ablation Platform (PTAP). The award is part of a broader federal push aimed at combating avian influenza, which has led to poultry production disruption, higher egg and poultry prices, and strained food supply...

The Kraft Heinz Company Appoints Nicolas Amaya as President, North America

The Kraft Heinz Company today announced the appointment of Nicolas Amaya (“Nico”) as President, North America, effective February 23, 2026. In this role, Amaya will lead the Company’s North America business, overseeing strategy, operations, and performance across Kraft Heinz’s largest market. Pedro Navio, current President, North America, will step down on February 22 to pursue other opportunities. Over his eight years with the Company, Pedro played a meaningful role in leading multiple businesses and helping position the Company for the future. The Company thanks...

Persistent Cost Increases and Enduring Demand Will Shape the Restaurant Industry in 2026

National Restaurant Association report highlights industry growth tempered by margin pressures

America’s restaurant industry is poised for a year of measured growth, though a cooling labor market, persistent cost pressures, and cautious household spending will continue to challenge operator margins. According to the National Restaurant Association’s 2026 State of the Restaurant Industry report, total restaurant and foodservice sales are projected to reach $1.55 trillion and restaurant operators are forecast to add more than 100,000 jobs.

This projected growth reflects an industry...

ANALYSIS: Cage-Free Market Softens as Supply Pressures Intensify

The cage-free shell egg market has continued to weaken into the second week of February, with broad-based softness taking hold across the industry. Limited demand from most buying channels, combined with expanding production, has placed significant pressure on values following several weeks of supportive gains. 

Retail demand had been the primary driver of the market in late January, supported by widespread winter storms and aggressive promotional activity. While cage-free demand is typically anchored by West Coast mandate-driven consumption, Midwest buying also strengthened during this period as down-packing opportunities emerged, effectively tightening available cage-free supplies...

ANALYSIS: EU Free-Range Egg Prices Surge Amid Tight Supply

EU free-range egg markets have extended their rally for a third consecutive week, consolidating a robust recovery following several weeks of decline from mid-December 2025 to late January. In this week’s reporting, average values increased by 4.8% week-on-week, reflecting persistent tightness in cage-free supply and renewed bullish sentiment among market participants.

The rally comes after a period of subdued sentiment driven by balanced supply and steady consumer demand over the holiday period. However, the ongoing shift by major European retailers toward cage-free and higher-welfare eggs is increasingly reshaping supply across marketing channels. As supermarket shelf space prioritizes barn and free-range products, the availability of these...

Farmers Appreciate Release of House Farm Bill Text

American Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall commented today on the House Agriculture Committee release of its version of the farm bill, the Farm, Food, and National Security Act of 2026.

“Farmers appreciate Chairman G.T. Thompson and the House Agriculture Committee for their work in drafting a new, modernized farm bill. The legislation is needed more than ever as America’s farmers and ranchers struggle through the worst economic storm in generations.

“We’re still reviewing the text of the bill, but it includes important updates to credit, conservation, research, and rural development programs, and calls for expansion of specialty crop programs...

Toast and Instacart Unveil Partnership, Supporting Restaurants and Retailers

Toast and Instacart have unveiled a strategic partnership tailored to streamline operations for businesses across the United States. This collaboration is poised to transform the landscape for retailers and restaurants, offering advanced solutions that integrate brick-and-mortar operations with digital marketplaces.

The partnership will facilitate seamless onboarding and synchronization of physical inventory to the Instacart Marketplace for retailers. Restaurants will benefit from a "just-in-time" solution for acquiring essential supplies like fresh produce and pantry staples, addressing inventory...

FMI Statement on January CPI Food Price Numbers

Today, FMI – The Food Industry Association commented on the January Consumer Price Index (CPI) numbers from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), which show a 0.2% rise in food-at-home prices for January and a 2.1% increase over the last 12 months. FMI Vice President of Tax, Trade, Sustainability and Policy Development Andy Harig offered the following statement.  

“Today’s CPI data is welcome news from the spike we saw in December and suggests that food price inflation continues to moderate, albeit on an uneven path toward the Federal Reserve’s 2% target. While categories like cereals and bakery products, animal...