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 742 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...

ANALYSIS: US Boneless Beef Imports Double Year-over-Year for November

According to the US Food Safety and Inspection Service’s Meat Passed for Entry report, 77,719 MT of boneless trimmings were accepted into the US. This represents a 32.17% increase compared to October, reflecting the typical seasonal rise seen toward the end of the year. However, this year's increase came earlier than usual, as the volume of boneless trimmings typically peaks in December. Year-over-year, this marks a 106.42% change for November.

Australia led the way, supplying 39.3% of the total, with 30,556 MT of boneless...

NCBA Responds to Dietary Guidelines Report and Reiterates Role of Beef in a Healthy Diet

Today, the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) reiterated the important role of beef in a healthy diet and responded to the questionable advice published in the Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee’s Scientific Report. Despite a wealth of high quality scientific evidence that beef has an important role to play in a healthy diet, the committee is advising the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) that federal nutrition guidelines include a reduction in red meat consumption... 

ANALYSIS: U.S. Beef Rib Pushing Towards All-Time Records

With year-end holidays approaching, the bone-in rib is once again front and center in the beef market. Over the past year, this item was largely kept at arm’s length as market participants contended with what appeared to be reserved consumer demand. Consequently, prices for the bone-in ribeye throughout the year lagged behind year-ago levels.

Fast forward to today, and prices have not only kept pace but have also surpassed last year’s high of $12.50/lb., currently...

ANALYSIS: China’s Nov 2024 Meat Imports Break 15-Month Y-o-Y Decline Streak to 580,619 mt

China’s total meat imports, including variety meats rebounded to 580,619 metric tonnes (mt) in November 2024, ending a 15-month year-over-year decline streak, according to the latest preliminary data from the General Administration of Customs of the People's Republic of China. 

Imports were higher by 8.6% or 23,619 mt month-on-month (m-o-m) ahead of the winter peak season.  

Meat consumption typically increases ahead of the cooler season, with a notable rise in demand for...

Statement on the Scientific Report of the 2025 Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee- Meat Institute

The Meat Institute today released the following statement regarding the Scientific Report of the 2025 Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee (Report):

“The Meat Institute remains strongly opposed to the Report’s recommendation to reduce meat consumption and will urge the agencies to reject it,” said Meat Institute President and CEO Julie Anna Potts.

“Meat products provide high quality protein that is critical for developing, maintaining, and repairiing strong muscles; vital for growth and brain development in children; beneficial for providing satiety and maintaining... 

The Retail Rundown: Seasonal Trends for Ribs vs. Hams

With Christmas just two weeks away, this week’s retail rundown takes a closer look at two traditional holiday centerpieces: rib roasts and hams. These festive favorites have followed differing paths in the wholesale markets this year, potentially influencing their retail performance in the lead-up to the year-end celebrations.

The wholesale rib market began its seasonal ascent in the third quarter, gaining traction in early August. From August 1 through December 10, prices surged by 42 percent, far surpassing the 5-year average increase of 17 percent for the same period...

ANALYSIS: Australia's Nov 2024 Beef Exports Ease 8.6% M-o-M From Record Highs to 118,878 mt

Australia’s beef and veal exports in Nov 2024 saw an 8.6% month-on-month (m-o-m) decline, falling to 118,878 metric tonnes (mt), according to the latest data from the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Forestry (DAFF).

This 11,171 mt monthly decrease followed a record high back in Oct 2024, when exports reached 130,048 mt. In line with traditional patterns, this fall was led by lower shipments to key destinations, including the United States (US), Korea, and southeast...

NCBA Endorsed Disaster Tax Relief Bill Passes Senate

Today, the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) thanked the U.S. Senate for passing the Federal Disaster Tax Relief Act (H.R. 5863). In addition to providing much needed relief to victims of hurricanes, this legislation would provide tax relief for cattle producers who received payments due to wildfires. Previously, these payments counted as taxable income, meaning producers who already suffered from disasters were hurt again by having their relief payments taxed.

“It is heart breaking to see your farm or ranch destroyed by a disaster and it only...

Gyro Sandwich Express Meal Kit Due to Cucumber Ingredient Linked to Baloian Farms Recall

Baloian Farms of Arizona Co. (Baloian) has initiated a recall of cucumbers due to possible health risks due to salmonella. As a result, Fresh Creative Foods is voluntarily recalling one product that contains cucumbers in the tzatziki sauce included in the kit.

The Beef & Lamb Gyro Sandwich Express Meal Kits (UPC: 0-13454-38313-1) have a use by date of 12/24/2024 – 1/6/2025 and were distributed to Sam’s Club warehouses nationally.

Salmonella is an organism that can cause...

CHI-CHI’S Restaurants Set for Comeback After Two Decades

Nearly 20 years after closing the last CHI-CHI’S™ restaurant location, the popular Mexican restaurant chain is set to make a comeback thanks to a new agreement with Hormel Foods, owner of CHI-CHI’S™ trademarks. The deal grants Michael McDermott, son of CHI-CHI’S™ founder, use of the CHI-CHI’S™ name on physical restaurant locations which are expected to open in 2025.

Michael McDermott is determined to honor his family’s legacy by combining the classic CHI-CHI’S™ restaurant experience with modern influence...

The Retail Rundown: Diving into December Deals

With the year-end holidays soon approaching, shoppers are eagerly diving into December deals. Retailers aim to capitalize on the season's spending surge with enticing offers on everything from festive foods to decadent desserts, decor, and other holiday items. 

Consumer spending on winter holidays is projected to hit a record-breaking $902 per person this year, according to a survey by the National Retail Federation (NRF) and Prosper Insights & Analytics. This figure marks a $25 increase from 2023 and surpasses the previous record set in 2019 by $16...

China Lifts Final Market Bans for Two Australian Beef Plants 

As of December 3rd, 2024, two Australian beef plants (Plant 1620 Australia Country Choice Production Pty Ltd and Plant 243 John Dee Warwick Pty Ltd) were approved for export to China, according to the General Administration of Customs of the People’s Republic of China.

The plants were banned from China’s market from 2021 and 2020 amid strained relationships between the two trading partners. 

“This is great news for Australian exporters, producers, and farmers... it’s a win for trade and a win for Australian jobs – something my Government will always back,” said Prime Minister Anthony Albanese.  

USDA Launches Agribusiness Trade Mission to Morocco

U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Foreign Agricultural Service Administrator Daniel Whitley arrived in Casablanca today to begin a USDA-sponsored agribusiness trade mission. Whitley is leading a delegation of nearly 50 U.S. agribusinesses and trade groups and 14 state departments of agriculture to expand U.S. farm and food exports to Morocco and other West African markets.

"I am honored to lead this delegation to Casablanca as we work to strengthen vital connections, grow U.S. agricultural exports, and showcase the broad array of products American agriculture has to...

ASEAN Customers Study U.S. Pork and Beef in Trend-Setting Korea

To expand the range of U.S. pork and beef cuts in the ASEAN, USMEF led retail and foodservice teams to Korea to study how U.S. red meat is utilized.

Characterized by the growth of single-person households and growing demand for quality and convenience, the Korean food industry has invested heavily in new product development and has become an innovator in its uses of U.S. pork and beef. USMEF recently brought teams of retail and foodservice customers from the ASEAN region to Korea to study new products...

The Retail Rundown: Holiday Features in Full Display

In the final stretch to Thanksgiving, turkey ads dominate protein advertisements this week with 29 percent, up from 11.8 percent the week prior and surpassing pork's 26.4 percent. Seafood ads come in at 20.2 percent, followed by beef at 16.4 percent. Chicken takes 6 percent, while eggs still have less than one percent of retail buying opportunities.

Fresh whole turkeys account for half of all turkey promotions, with frozen turkeys making up 40.5 percent. While turkeys take center stage, the holiday season also lifts demand for cold-weather comfort foods and convenient...

ANALYSIS: U.S. Imported Beef Least Cost Formulation Effects on Mixed Trimmings 85% in Fall 2024

Throughout the course of October, Aus/NZ MXT 85 on the spot market dropped in value by $18/cwt after trading at $289/cwt levels at the end of September. Entering November, the number was at $271/cwt and has remained generally steady at that mark.

End users of boneless beef trim typically use different lean percentage items to formulate their finished products. Given this flexibility, buyers can select from different trim options based on price and specific...

Brazil Opens New Markets in China and Increases Number of Authorised Meatpacking Plants

During Chinese President Xi Jinping's visit to Brazil on 20 November agreements were signed on the opening of five new markets and certifying of 38 new meatpacking plants.

The Brazilian Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock (Mapa) finalized four phytosanitary protocols in collaboration with China's General Administration of Customs (GACC). These agreements enable exports of fresh grapes, sesame, sorghum, and fish-derived products such as fish meal and oil for animal feed to China. Earlier in June, China approved Brazilian pecans for import...

Mexican Cattle Imports to U.S. Suspended Following New World Screwworm Detection 

On November 22, 2024, Mexico's Chief Veterinary Officer notified the United States Department of Agriculture's (USDA) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) of a confirmed case of New World screwworm (NWS) in a cow in Chiapas, located near the Guatemalan border.

NWS, the larvae of a fly species, infest and feed on the living tissue of warm-blooded animals, posing a significant threat to livestock and other animals.

"With the northward spread of NWS, APHIS has ramped up its collaboration with Central American countries to combat this pest in affected regions," said Dr. Rosemary Sifford, Chief Veterinary Officer of the United States. "This recent detection in Mexico underscores the need to intensify these efforts to protect U.S. agriculture and restore the Central American barrier."...

Yu Shang Food, Inc. Recalls RTE Meat and Poultry Products Due to Possible Listeria Contamination

Yu Shang Food, Inc., a Spartanburg, SC, establishment, is recalling approximately 72,240 pounds of ready-to-eat (RTE) meat and poultry products within their shelf life that may be adulterated with Listeria monocytogenes, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS). This release is being reissued to expand the scope of the November 9, 2024, recall.

All ready-to-eat products produced prior to October 28, 2024, are subject to recall. View full product list. View labels...

Wolverine Packing Co. Recalls Ground Beef Products Due to Possible E. Coli O157:H7 Contamination

Wolverine Packing Co., a Detroit, Mich. establishment, is recalling approximately 167,277 pounds of ground beef products that may be contaminated with E. coli O157:H7, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today.

The fresh products have a “use by” date of 11/14/2024 and the frozen products are labeled with production date 10 22 24. View full product list. View labels.

The products subject to recall bear establishment number “EST. 2574B” inside the USDA mark of inspection....

ANALYSIS: Demand Outpaces Supply for Brazilian Beef

The Brazilian ”Boi Gordo” cattle price index reached BRL 344.20/15 Kg as of November 18 close, marking a year on year increase of 46%. According to Expanas Brazilian Beef Analyst, Augusto Eto, the increase is due to high demand from both domestic and export markets, a reduction in the supply of animals ready for slaughter and a favorable exchange rate with the Brazilian Real weakening approximately 18% against the U.S. Dollar since the beginning of the year.

Data from the Brazilian Institute of Geography and Statistics (IBGE)...

ANALYSIS: Mexican Beef Cutout Dynamics

In 2024, the Mexican beef market experienced significant shifts, driven by fluctuating domestic and export opportunities. By mid-November, the total carcass value reached MXN 107.91/kg, marking steady price increases across most primal categories. These increases have been the result of consistent interest across all segments of the market, fueled by higher domestic consumption and increased exports. This dynamic has led to a generalized rise in primal values, ultimately pushing the overall cutout to... 

Ribs have emerged as the top-performing category, closing at MXN 134.49/kg, driven by... 

ANALYSIS: China’s Oct 2024 Beef Imports Rebound to 7-Month High at 237,264 mt

China's October 2024 beef imports rose to a 7-month high to 237,264 metric tonnes (mt), according to the latest data from the General Administration of Customs People's Republic of China.

Increasing by 8.7% month-on-month (m-o-m), October 2024’s imports rose by 19,066 mt from September 2024’s 5-month low. This rebound was primarily fuelled by stronger shipments from Brazil, its largest supplier, along with notable contributions from Uruguay and New Zealand.

Year-on-year (y-o-y), imports...

Chipotle Reaches 1,000th Chipotlane Milestone 

Chipotle Mexican Grill  announced today the opening of its 1,000th Chipotlane restaurant on Thursday, November 21. Located in the Kansas City metro area, the milestone restaurant will feature the company's signature digital order drive thru pick-up lane. Of the company's more than 3,600 restaurants in its real estate portfolio, nearly 30% feature a Chipotlane.

"Chipotlanes are a critical piece of our long-term growth goal of reaching 7,000 restaurants in North America," said Chris Brandt, Chief Brand Officer. "This restaurant format

is the fastest way for fans to...

ANALYSIS: U.S Beef Tenderloin Holiday Trends

With Thanksgiving in view, it seemed to be a good time to give an update on beef tenderloins as the next slated holiday will be Christmas and New Years. Tenderloins have had a rough year when comparing prices year-over-year. On average, prices have tracked about 10% below year-ago levels for choice tenderloins. Speaking to the cost-conscious environment, the beef industry has found itself in this year. Fast-forward to today’s price, choice tenderloins currently sit at $15.75/lb. which is about 6% below year-ago levels for the same...

The Retail Rundown: Turkey Takes the Spotlight

According to Circana data, fresh whole turkeys were featured at an average discounted price of $1.48 per pound last week, up from $1.27 per pound during the same period last year.

The most popular turkey sizes, 10–15 and 16–24 pounds, averaged $1.34 per pound, compared to $1.00–$1.10 per pound last year. These prices reflect pre-promotion rates and do not account for additional discounts or free turkey offers.

Whole turkeys are often used as loss leaders to increase holiday store...

Wahlburgers Debuts Limited-Time Triple Threat Slider Flight

Wahlburgers invites fans on a flavorful journey with its new Triple Threat Flight — a trio of sliders with a bold mix of tastes that will keep guests on their toes beginning Tuesday, Nov. 19, and through the Big Game.

Priced at $12.95*, the thrilling lineup includes the following sliders prepared for takeoff:

• Classic Meatball: A hearty meatball with provolone and spicy arrabbiata sauce for an unforgettable kick.
• BBQ Bacon: White cheddar, bacon, jalapeño, BBQ sauce and avocado spread to highlight the packed smoky richness guests... 

ANALYSIS: Korea's Oct 2024 Beef Imports Climb to 9-Month High, In-Month Volumes Highest Since 1994

Korea’s October 2024 beef imports rose to the highest levels since January 2024, reaching 46,697 mt, according to the latest Korea Customs Service data.

Volumes surged by 21.0% (8,117 mt) month-on-month (m-o-m), fuelled by higher imports from its key suppliers, Australia and the United States (US).

In-month October 2024's figures were the highest on record since 1994, driven by subdued imports earlier in the year and a rush...

Whetstone Distribution Acquires Chicago-Based Anmar Foods 

Whetstone Distribution has acquired Anmar Foods, a Chicago-based meat producer specializing in beef, turkey, chicken, and other animal proteins, including pork, lamb, sausages, and smoked products. 

The acquisition is part of Whetstone’s strategy to expand its regional customer base. The company recently bought several other Chicago-based businesses, including Fulton Market and Pritzlaff Wholesale Meats, as well as Moesle Meats and Queen Foods...

Kroger Reveals Customer Thanksgiving Favorites and Grocery Shopping Habits in Time for The Holidays

In preparation for Thanksgiving, The Kroger Co. surveyed customers to see how they plan to shop and what they plan to eat during the holidays this year.

"Thanksgiving is such a special time of year and we take pride in knowing exactly what is important to our customers during this holiday season," said Tom Duncan, Vice President, Head of Marketing at Kroger. "No matter how they choose to celebrate, we're happy to provide our customers with value on the items they need...

The Meat Institute and the American Meat Science Association Announce

The American Meat Science Association (AMSA) and the Meat Institute today announced a partnership to manage the popular Meat Buyer’s Guide (MBG) with editions to publish in 2024 and 2025.

This agreement will ensure the continuity and future development of an essential industry resource. The phased upgrade of the Meat Buyer’s Guide is set to begin with an initial print run in December 2024, followed by a comprehensive update and re-release scheduled for 2025.

The MBG, first published in 1961, summarizes the USDA’s Institutional Meat Purchase...

Kingswood Capital Management Acquires Branding Iron Holdings, a Leading Protein Provider

Kingswood Capital Management, LP (together with its affiliates, “Kingswood”) announced today that it has acquired Branding Iron Holdings (“Branding Iron” or “the Company”), an industry-leading provider of branded and private label protein products, including beef and pork, with a core focus on frozen and refrigerated ground meats. This represents the latest investment for Kingswood in the food and beverage industry.

“It was important to us to identify a long-term partner who will help us grow and support customers across...

McDonald’s USA, Syngenta and Lopez Foods Collaborate to Help Produce Beef More Sustainably in the US

McDonald’s USA, one of the largest fast food restaurant chains, Lopez Foods, a multi-protein producer and long-term supplier to McDonald’s, and Syngenta North America, a leader in agricultural technology, today announced a collaboration that aims to increase feed efficiency and help reduce the amount of greenhouse gas emissions released per pound of meat produced, as part of efforts to improve the sustainability of beef production.

Enogen® corn is an in-seed innovation available exclusively from Syngenta, that...

The Retail Rundown: This Year's Thanksgiving Dinner May Cost Less 

This week’s protein promotions spotlight seafood, which makes up 33.1 percent of all ads, with pork following at 25.6 percent and beef at 24.3 percent. Chicken features come in at 13 percent, while turkey ads saw a small increase to 3.8 percent, up from 3.3 percent last week but below the 5 percent seen two weeks prior.

Frozen turkeys make up 27 percent of all turkey ads, up 25.7 percent last week, with prices ranging between $2.79 and $5.00 discounted last week.

According to the Expana Thanksgiving Dinner Index 2024...

Thanks a Million, America! Burger King® Gives Away One Million Whopper® Sandwiches for Just $1

To say thank you to everyone who submitted their dream Whopper creation in the Million Dollar Whopper Contest, Burger King is serving up one million original Whopper sandwiches for just $1 starting Nov. 12 – while supplies last;

Starting Nov. 14, after much anticipation, Burger King Guests can enjoy the three finalist Million Dollar Whopper Contest builds and help crown the winner of the $1 million grand prize

Earlier this year, Burger King introduced...

Applebee’s Introduces NEW Really BIG Meal Deal

Enjoy the NEW Big Cluckin’ Chicken Sandwich or BIG Classic Bacon Cheeseburger, served with Classic Fries and a fountain drink for just $9.99; Available for both dine-in and To Go

Applebee’s is going BIG with the debut of its NEW Really BIG Meal Deal featuring the NEW Big Cluckin’ Chicken Sandwich and BIG Classic Bacon Cheeseburger served with Classic Fries and a fountain drink for only $9.99!* Big Taste, Big Flavor and Big Value, the Applebee’s NEW Really BIG Meal Deal is available now for...

ANALYSIS: China’s Oct 2024 Meat Imports Extend 15-Month YoY Decline Streak, Reaching 534,675 mt

China’s total meat imports, including variety meats in October 2024 were recorded at 534,675 metric tonnes (m)t, based on the latest preliminary data from the General Administration of Customs of the People's Republic of China.

Imports dipped by just 1.1% m-o-m (-5,868 mt), falling for the second month, as firmer winter demand offset any significant declines.  

Volumes were also supported by its major supplier Brazil’s beef exports hitting record highs, but its poultry exports to China have...

ANALYSIS: Uruguay’s Beef Exports See 11.3% Monthly Rise in October, Yet Decline 11.9% Y-o-Y

In October 2024, Uruguay’s fresh beef exports reached 28,512 MT, based on the latest data from the Uruguayan National Customs Directorate. This is 11.3% higher than the previous month and marks a 11.9% drop Y-o-Y. On a YTD basis, cumulative exports now stand at 292,422 MT, up by 2.2% compared to the same period last year. Uruguay’s annual performance indicates resilience in export volumes, with exporters adjusting destination strategies in response to fluctuating demand and price conditions...

Red Robin Gourmet Burgers, Inc. Reports Results for the Fiscal Third Quarter Ended October 6, 2024

Red Robin Gourmet Burgers, Inc., a full-service restaurant chain serving an innovative selection of high-quality gourmet burgers in a family-friendly atmosphere, today reported financial results for the fiscal third quarter ended October 6, 2024.

Highlights for the Third Quarter of Fiscal 2024, Compared to the Third Quarter of Fiscal 2023:

• Total revenues are $274.6 million, a decrease of $2.9 million.
• Comparable restaurant revenue(1) increased 0.6%.
• Net loss is $18.9 million, compared to...

ANALYSIS: Australia's Oct 2024 Beef Exports Hit Fresh All-Time High; YTD Exceeds 1 Million Mt

Australia’s beef and veal exports for October 2024 reached a fresh all-time high at 130,048 mt, according to the latest figures from the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Forestry (DAFF).

While October 2024 export figures exceeded July 2024’s high of 129,998 mt by a narrow margin of 50 mt, they reflected a month-on-month (m-o-m) increase of 14.0% (+16,002 mt). This rise was driven by higher shipments to key destinations, including the...

ANALYSIS: U.S Choice Bone-In Ribs Rise into the Holiday Period

As the holiday season approaches, Choice bone-in ribs have returned to the conversation. Looking back, this item has shown consistent upward momentum over the past month. It started October at $9.24/lb., approximately 10% lower than its year-ago level. Since then, the price has steadily risen to its current value of $11.03/lb., or roughly a 19% increase, surpassing 2023 year-to-date price of $10.93/lb.

In a similar trend, 2023 also saw...

Two Australian Beef Plants Anticipated to Resume Exports to China by Year’s End

On November 3, Australian Trade Minister Don Farrell met with China’s Commerce Minister Wang Wentao at the China International Import Expo (CIIE) in Shanghai, where Wang assured Farrell that China would lift its remaining trade restrictions on Australian exports. 

Farrell noted that since last year’s expo, China has lifted tariffs on Australian wine and resumed exports from eight red meat facilities. China also plans to fully reopen its market to Australian rock lobsters by the end of this year.  

Despite the progress, two Australian beef plants (Plant 1620...

ANALYSIS: Argentina’s Beef Exports Rose Modest 3.0% in September, Still Marking a 44.5% Y-o-Y Surge

Argentina’s beef exports reached 70,806 MT in September 2024, according to the latest data from the National Institute of Statistics and Census. Although this figure shows a modest 3.0% M-o-M increase, it still remains 44.5% higher compared to the same period last year.

China continues to represent a significant portion of market share, absorbing 68.9% of total Argentina’s beef exports, equivalent to 49,521 MT. This represents a slight 2.4% drop compared to the previous month, but still...

ANALYSIS: Japan's Sept 2024 Beef Imports Plummets to 7-Month Low Amid High Inventory Pressure

Japan’s beef imports in September 2024 plunged 21.9% month-on-month (m-o-m) to a seven-month low, totalling 38,177 metric tonnes (mt), as reported by Trade Statistics of Japan.

At the lowest level since February 2024, this 10,707 mt decline was mainly led by lower volumes from its major suppliers, apart from Mexico. This monthly slowdown traces back to lingering challenges from Japan’s scorching summer, which curtailed foodservice consumption and led to inventory buildups across key regions such as Tokyo... 

Understanding the Global Cattle Cycle's Role in Shifting Beef Trade and Prices

The Global beef cattle market is characterized by an interplay of cyclical trends, external pressures, and strategic management decisions across key regions. This whitepaper outlines the current state of the cattle industry in six major areas- the United States, Brazil, the United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, and Mexico- highlighting key findings related to production, market pressures, and the potential outlook. As forces like weather, the economy, and trade dynamics shape the global beef landscape, industry stakeholders can stay ahead of the... 

The Retail Rundown: Late-Season Push for Grilling Cuts

As October ends, beef and seafood promotions are neck and neck, each occupying about 25 percent of total advertising space. During the final week of "Pork-tober, pork features account for 20.8 percent of buying opportunities, closely followed by chicken at 20.6 percent.

Though the shift from grilling cuts to roasts has been in motion for a few weeks, a forecast of record warmth in parts of the central and eastern U.S. this week offers a last chance for backyard cooking before winter sets in.

This could spur late-season promotions...

MeatWorks Launches Free 2-Day Nationwide Shipping of USDA Prime Steaks

MeatWorks, a premier provider of USDA Prime steaks and high-quality meats, is thrilled to announce the launch of nationwide shipping. Starting immediately, customers across the 48 contiguous United States can now enjoy premium MeatWorks products delivered straight to their doorstep—with free shipping on every order.

"At MeatWorks, we've always believed in making premium-quality meats more accessible to everyone," said Brock Furlong, CEO at MeatWorks. "With our new expansion to nationwide shipping, we're excited to offer our USDA Prime steaks at wholesale prices...

ANALYSIS: US Boneless Beef Imports from Australia Soar, Domestic and Import 90s Gap Grows

The week of October 7th experienced 6,045 MT of boneless beef that cleared for entry into the United States, marking a significant 52-week high. This represents an impressive year-over-year increase of 53.5%. Australia plays a key role in the boneless beef market, exporting lean boneless beef to various countries, with the U.S. accounting for 32.6% of their exports, equating to 37,218 MT in September alone.

Even with more meat available on the market, the price of Aus/NZ...

ANALYSIS: Korea's 2024 Safeguard on Australian Beef Kicks In, 43 Days Earlier Y-o-Y

As of 24^th October, Australian beef imports into Korea has exhausted its 2024 Special Agricultural Safeguard (SSG) volumes, according to the Korea Customs Service website.

Imports exceeding this volume now incur a tariff rate of 24.0% for the remainder of the year, up from the current rate of 10.6%. This activation occurred significantly earlier than last year’s 8th December 2023 trigger date, representing a difference of approximately 43 days.

Just earlier on 14th October 2024, Meat and Livestock Australia (MLA) has reported that Australia had...

ANALYSIS: New Zealand's Sept 2024 Beef Exports Tumble to 11-Month Low amid Seasonal Slowdown

New Zealand’s September 2024 beef exports plummeted to an 11-month low, recording at 29,110 metric tonnes (mt), according to the latest data from Stats NZ. This marks the fourth consecutive month of decline, with exports falling by 8.3% (-2,631 mt) compared to August 2024.

The lower tonnage saw reduced exports to key clients such as the United States (US), Japan and Korea, while increased allocations to Canada, Indonesia and Saudi Arabia helped offset further falls...

ANALYSIS: Mexican Beef Import and Export Dynamics YTD

From January to September 2024, beef imports in Mexico reached a total of 190,097 tons, reflecting a significant increase compared to the previous year. The United States remains the main supplier, with 112,974 tons accounting for 68.9% of total imports, an 8.1% increase compared to the same period last year. This growth highlights the ongoing importance of the U.S. market as a key source of supply for Mexico, especially during times of economic fluctuations that have affected trade decisions.

In addition to imports from the United States, South America has... 

ANALYSIS: UB Choice Beef Cutout Outperforming Year Ago Levels

The Urner Barry Choice Cutout has been relatively tame this year when compared to last year’s moves. The peaks and troughs have been fairly muted as prices remain sticky and at elevated levels from a historical perspective. This has largely been driven by the lower middle meat prices as buyers opted for more cost-conscious beef items. For example, when looking at export ribs or tenderloins through the summer months – they predominantly tracked below year-ago levels and by quite a good margin...

E. coli Linked to McDonald's Quarter Pounders Kills 1 in Multi-State Outbreak

An investigation is underway following an outbreak of E. coli linked to McDonald's Quarter Pounder hamburgers that killed one individual in Colorado and sickened dozens of others across multiple states. 

The U.S. Food & Drug Administration identified the strain as O157:H7, a dangerous bacteria that can cause severe illness or death. The primary sources of outbreaks are raw or undercooked ground meat, raw milk and cheeses, and contaminated vegetables...