Private Labels, Health and Wellness Take Center Stage at UNFI’s 2026 Holiday and Winter Selling Show

UNFI hosted its 2026 Holiday and Winter Selling Show (East) at Mohegan Sun in Uncasville, Connecticut, on June 24–25. 

The convention brought together more than 1,400 grocery retail representatives and 715 suppliers to connect ahead of the holiday and winter selling season. 

"This show reflects our continued focus on strengthening capabilities to help our retail customers differentiate and compete, while also supporting suppliers as they grow their brands in diverse retail environments," said Sandy Douglas, CEO of UNFI... 

Davids Leads Congressional Action as New World Screwworm Cases Threaten Kansas Beef Production

Representative Sharice Davids (KS-03), along with Representatives Jim Costa (CA-21) and Gabe Vasquez (NM-02), led 21 New Democrat Coalition members in demanding answers from Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins about the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) response to the emergence of New World Screwworm (NWS) and urging the Trump Administration to provide ranchers, farmers, and producers with the tools they need to contain the outbreak.

"Across the livestock sector, producers and industry experts have made clear that they are prepared to work with USDA...

New World Screwworm in the US - What We Know So Far

The New World screwworm (NWS), a flesh-eating parasitic fly whose larvae feed on living tissue, has re-emerged as a major animal-health threat in the Americas after spreading northward through Central America and Mexico.

Federal and state authorities have expanded surveillance, quarantines, and sterile-fly releases in an effort to prevent the pest from becoming re-established in the country.

Expana is closely tracking the situation—see below for related coverage and an updated factsheet with the latest developments...

Wingstop Elevates its Summer Flavor Game with New Sweet Heat Chamoy Featuring Tajín

Wingstop is tapping into fan cravings and bringing bold flavor to summer gatherings with its newest limited-time flavor, Sweet Heat Chamoy featuring Tajín. The new offering combines a custom chamoy dry rub with a vibrant Tajín Chamoy drizzle, creating a layered flavor experience that balances sweet, tangy fruit notes with chili heat and citrus brightness.

The new Sweet Heat Chamoy flavor will be available exclusively to Club Wingstop members June 26 through June 29 before launching...

Farm Bureau Applauds President’s Call for Farmer Aid and Year-Round E15, Urges Bipartisan Action

American Farm Bureau President Zippy Duvall today applauded the White House request to Congress for more than $11 billion in additional assistance for America's farmers and ranchers, as well as the administration's call for year-round access to E15 fuel.

“Farmers are grateful to have the president’s backing at such a critical time after enduring years of economic losses due to inflation and depressed markets. Additional aid will give farmers optimism headed into harvest later this year as they await the benefits of enhanced...

Casey’s Unveils New Three-Year Strategy Centered on Food, Store Growth, and Technology

Casey’s General Store, a nationwide convenience store chain, has unveiled a new three-year strategic plan focused on expanding its food business, growing its store base, and leveraging technology to improve operational efficiency. The company’s previous strategic plan, announced in 2023, helped Casey’s exceed both its strategic and financial goals.

“Our success over the last three years reinforces what makes Casey’s unique: a differentiated model that brings together restaurant-quality food, best-in-class convenience, and fuel at scale,” said Darren Rebelez, President...

Agragene Selected for USDA Grand Challenge and FFAR Grants to Combat New World Screwworm

Agragene announces funding from the USDA New World Screwworm Grand Challenge and from the Foundation for Food & Agriculture Research. The grants were awarded through competitive processes by both USDA and FFAR with the former involving hundreds of submissions. Both grants are designed to facilitate additional research on the company’s novel insect sterility technology.

Agragene uses precision-guided sterile insect technique (pgSIT) to deliver healthy, sterile male flies to mate with wild female screwworm.

Bryan Witherbee, CEO of Agragene, says the technology has demonstrated the ability to deliver significant impact in reducing other invasive pest populations...

ANALYSIS: Turkey Retail Distribution Plummets as Economic Reality Reshapes Buying Patterns

Demand for turkey at the retail counter has slowed significantly, which is driving prices lower throughout much of the complex. Total year-to-date (YTD) distribution of turkey items at retail is down 21.1% year-over-year (YOY) and is 22.2% below the 5-year average. Fresh bacon, fresh turkey breast, and fresh and frozen ground turkey make up 78.3% of the retail market, and all of these items have experienced declines...

Darden Sees Same-Store Sales Growth Across All Segments in Fiscal 2026

Darden Restaurants closed fiscal 2026 with sales and earnings growth that, according to President & CEO Rick Cardenas, outpaced the broader restaurant industry. Results were driven by positive same-restaurant sales across all segments, continued unit expansion and the benefit of a 53rd week of operations.

The company reported fiscal 2026 sales of $13.21 billion, up 9.4%, while blended same-restaurant sales increased 4.5%.

"Our performance throughout the fiscal year reflects the strength of our brands, the discipline of our strategy, and the quality of our...

BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse Launches New Crispy Chicken Sandwich Lineup Starting June 25

BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse is introducing a new lineup of chicken sandwiches beginning June 25, featuring crispy chicken across three new recipes with customizable options.

“At BJ’s, we’re always innovating to bring guests exciting new flavors and memorable dining experiences, and our new chicken sandwich lineup is the latest example,” said Heidi Rogers, Chief Marketing Officer at BJ’s Restaurants, Inc. “From the trending heat of our Korean-style chicken sandwich to a classic option guests can customize their way, each sandwich is crafted...

US Beef Shines in Korea’s Booming Home Meal Replacement Sector

Fueled by inflation and the rise in single-person households, Korea’s home meal replacement (HMR) industry continues expanding, having nearly doubled in size over the past decade. High-quality U.S. beef has successfully penetrated this product category through new product development and promotional partnerships with Korean importers, processors, restaurants and retailers.

One such partnership is with Samihun, a prestigious barbecue restaurant brand widely recognized as a market leader in the HMR sector. Renowned for its top-selling galbitang (beef rib soup) and marinated beef barbecue, Samihun utilizes high-quality U.S....

AFBF Commends Bednarski Nomination to Farm Credit Board

American Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall today [June 24, 2026] commended the White House nomination of Michigan Farm Bureau leader and farmer Carl Bednarski to serve on the Farm Credit Administration Board.

“We congratulate Carl on his nomination to the Farm Credit Administration Board. He is well-qualified to serve in this position, having capably led the team at Michigan Farm Bureau for a decade and having also served on the AFBF board of directors for nearly nine years, including roles on our Executive, Audit and Finance Committees.

“Carl’s strong leadership abilities and knowledge of 

USDA Announces FY 2025 State Payment Error Rates in SNAP

Today, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) released the annual Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) payment error rates (PER), which measure how accurately states determine who is eligible for SNAP and how much they should receive.

The national payment error rate for fiscal year (FY) 2025 is 10.62%, far surpassing the congressional threshold of 6%.

While this is a modest decrease from FY 2024, the FY 2025 rate still shows significant waste at the state level. Including both overpayments and underpayments, this year’s rate represents a collective $10.1 billion...

Cal-Maine Foods Expands Board of Directors and Appoints Two Independent Directors

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 [June 23, 2026] announced the appointment of Haley R. Fisackerly and Michael J. Highfield as independent members of its Board of Directors, effective June 23, 2026. Concurrently with these appointments, the Board was increased from eight to ten directors.

The appointment of Haley and Mike further strengthens the Board's collective expertise as the company expands its business, pursues new opportunities, and executes its...

MLA - On-Farm Performance and Profitability the Focus of New $6 Million Partnership

Thousands of Victorian livestock producers will be able to boost their performance, profits and market opportunities through a major new program being launched today.

The initiative, a $6m partnership between Meat & Livestock Australia (MLA) and Agriculture Victoria, will help producers use on-farm data through proven tools to improve their decision making, with immediate results.

This includes using tools such as MyFeedback to better understand carcase performance against processor specifications, including MSA outcomes, and using that information to improve market alignment and returns.

Producers will...

Governor Abbott Announces Federal Funding To Strengthen NWS Inspection Capacity

Governor Greg Abbott today announced pre-award approval of a cooperative agreement with the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) APHIS Veterinary Services that unlocks immediate federal funding for the Texas Animal Health Commission (TAHC) to hire additional inspectors and strengthen the state’s New World screwworm (NWS) response.

“Texas will take every action necessary to safeguard our livestock producers and agricultural economy from the New World screwworm,” said Governor Abbott. “This federal funding allows us to place more inspectors in the field and bolster our state response. I thank...

The Retail Rundown: Independence Day Demand Meets Rising Cookout Costs

After weeks of demand shaped by Memorial Day and Father’s Day, retailers are now preparing for the final major grilling holiday of the summer: Independence Day. For meat departments, the Fourth of July represents the last significant opportunity to capture peak grilling demand before the slower midsummer period begins.

This year’s holiday arrives with favorable calendar dynamics. Falling on a Saturday, July 4th creates a full holiday weekend expected to encourage extended celebrations and larger gatherings. For grocers, that translates into a critical window to drive volume and strengthen...

NDFU Issues Statement on Senate Farm Bill Proposal

North Dakota Farmers Union President Matt Perdue issued the following statement today in response to the U.S. Senate Agriculture Committee’s release of The Agricultural Act of 2026:

“The Senate farm bill proposal includes many of the same helpful provisions included in the House-passed version. It updates farm loan programs and reauthorizes voluntary conservation, rural development and farmer mental health programs. These updates will benefit family farmers and ranchers and their communities.  

“We appreciate the process moving forward and hope the Senate addresses missed opportunities during the committee process. We will continue to advocate for bipartisan proposals...

Farm Bureau: Cost of Fourth of July Cookout Reflects Inflation Increase

Families celebrating the Fourth of July holiday with a cookout will find that prices at the grocery store closely reflect inflation increases over the last year. An Independence Day cookout will cost $73.82 for 10 guests this year, according to the 2026 American Farm Bureau Federation annual marketbasket survey.

This is up $2.90 from last year, which is a 4% increase. The overall annual inflation rate in the United States is 4.2% for 12 months ending in May, which is consistent with the findings of the marketbasket survey, even though the survey tracks a much smaller basket of items.

At $7.38 per person, this is the most expensive Fourth of July cookout since Farm Bureau began surveying costs in 2016. However, after adjusting for inflation, cookout costs have remained relatively stable in recent years and remain below the previous peak reached in 2022.

Tyson Foods Expands Chicken Cups Line With Three New Flavors

In line with demand for convenient, high‑protein foods, Tyson Foods is expanding its Tyson Chicken Cups line with three new varieties: Garlic & Herb, BBQ and Harissa.

The expansion builds on early traction for the product, which was named Product of the Year in the Protein Snack category based on a Kantar survey of 40,000 consumers. The recognition highlights continued interest in protein‑forward, on‑the‑go options and supports the brand’s positioning in the growing snack protein segment.

The new flavor lineup...

The Winn-Dixie Company Completes Final Harveys Supermarket Conversions

The Winn-Dixie Company has completed the conversion of eight Harveys Supermarket locations to the Winn-Dixie banner, unifying its store portfolio under one trusted name and marking a new chapter for the grocer and the communities it serves.

Anthony Hucker, Chairman and CEO of The Winn-Dixie Company, said, “Completing these conversions is a defining milestone for The Winn-Dixie Company and an important step forward for the communities we proudly serve. For more than a century, Winn-Dixie has been part of...

Church's Texas Chicken® Brings Back Smokehouse Chicken with NEW Lemon Pepper Flavor

Church's Texas Chicken® is bringing back one of its most requested menu favorites – Smokehouse Chicken, available for a limited time. Starting at just $5.99, the craveable offering comes as a complete meal, including a signature Honey-Butter Biscuit™ and a Jalapeño Pepper for a bold, flavorful kick. This year's return is even bigger, with the addition of NEW Lemon Pepper Chicken, delivering a zesty, savory twist.

The lineup features three crave-worthy flavors: Original, Spicy, and the all-new...

Domino’s Names Joe Jordan CEO as Russell Weiner Plans Retirement

Domino’s Pizza Inc. has outlined a planned leadership transition that will see Chief Operating Officer (COO) and President of Domino’s US Joe Jordan step into the role of Chief Executive Officer (CEO) on October 1, 2026, as longtime company veteran Russell Weiner prepares to retire from the position.

The company said Jordan will also join Domino’s Board of Directors at that time. Weiner will remain CEO through the end of September 2026 before transitioning to Executive Chairman Designate, and will...

Wendy’s Names Steve Cirulis CFO and Chief Strategy Officer

Wendy’s has named Steve Cirulis as its new Chief Financial Officer and Chief Strategy Officer, effective June 23, 2026, as the quick‑service chain continues to focus on its turnaround strategy.

Cirulis will report to President and Chief Executive Officer Bob Wright and join Wendy’s Senior Leadership Team. He succeeds Ken Cook, who has served as CFO since 2024 and will remain in an advisory role through July to support a smooth transition.

Cirulis most recently held the dual CFO and Chief Strategy Officer roles at...

70% of Low-income Parents Worry About Affording Groceries

As inflation and grocery prices reach new highs, new national research commissioned by No Kid Hungry finds parents living on low incomes are being forced to make impossible tradeoffs between stocking the fridge, buying medicine, and paying household bills. The polling underscores the devastating impact of last summer's historic cuts to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) that have already caused 3.5 million people to lose access to the nation's most effective anti-hunger program.

The results show that parents are having to make difficult decisions about which basic needs to...

Long John Silver’s Leverages Seasonal Flavors and Value in Summer Menu Launch

Long John Silver’s is combining limited‑time menu additions with value-driven offerings to drive summer traffic, rolling out a seasonal lineup that mixes returning seafood favorites, new sauces and expanded beverage options.

The quick‑service seafood chain has introduced a Summer Special Platter featuring coconut shrimp and a new Citrus Honey Mustard dipping sauce, while continuing its year‑round $6 Basket program, a core part of its value strategy amid intense industry competition.

"To us, summer is all about providing great flavors and...

OTB Hospitality Files Chapter 7 Bankruptcy Following On The Border Closures

Pappas Restaurants, Inc. expanded its portfolio in May 2025 with the acquisition of On The Border Mexican Grill & Cantina, adding another well‑known Texas brand to its family of restaurant concepts, according to an Expana report.

The deal brought On The Border under the same umbrella as Pappadeaux Seafood Kitchen, Pappasito’s Cantina and Pappas Bros. Steakhouse, among other concepts. Following the acquisition, Pappas began refreshing On The Border’s menu and operations, with an emphasis on improving food quality, strengthening execution and enhancing the overall guest experience...

Denny’s Launches Summer Menu, Adds New Value Items Under $10

Denny’s is rolling out a new summer menu designed to blur traditional daypart boundaries, with breakfast, lunch, and dinner items all available any time of day across its US restaurants beginning June 24.

Dubbed The Clock’s Off Menu, the lineup is built around an all-day dining strategy that leans into changing consumer habits and the idea that demand is no longer tied to conventional meal times.

The expanded menu includes core Denny’s staples such as Moons Over My Hammy, Country Fried Steak & Eggs, Sirloin Steak, and...

Swine Health Advisory Committee Sets Five Focus Areas

The Swine Health advisory committee is focused on turning strategy into action. To help advance the National Swine Health Strategy, the committee identified five focus areas that will drive action and measurable progress for U.S. pork producers.

A Producer-Led Push for Swine Health
Pork producers need a swine health strategy that actually works on the farm. The Swine Health advisory committee was created to make sure that happens.

For the inaugural meeting in May, the advisory committee’s twenty-seven producers, veterinarians, USDA staff and packers/processors...

Fry Pie Factory Recalls Pepperoni Rolls Over Undeclared Milk, Temperature Control Issues

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has posted a recall notice from Fry Pie Factory involving its 5-ounce Pepperoni Rolls due to undeclared milk and a refrigeration process deviation that could pose a food safety risk.

According to the company, the voluntary recall was initiated after it discovered the products were mislabeled and failed to declare milk, a major food allergen. In addition, the Pepperoni Rolls were not stored, distributed, or sold at appropriate temperatures, which may have allowed the...

Secretary of Agriculture Names John Bellinger as Senior Advisor for New World Screwworm Preparedness

John Bellinger, co-founder and CEO of Food Safety Net Services (FSNS) and former CEO of Certified Group, has been appointed Senior Advisor for New World Screwworm Preparedness as USDA advances efforts to protect U.S. livestock, producers, and the protein supply chain.

The appointment was announced by U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins as USDA advances preparedness efforts related to New World screwworm, a pest that can cause serious harm to cattle and other warm-blooded animals...

Higher Costs Weigh on Margins as Kroger Reports First-Quarter Growth

Kroger reported its financial results for the first quarter ended May 23, 2026, with total company sales increasing to $46.1 billion from $45.1 billion in the prior-year period.

Excluding fuel and Vitacost, sales increased 0.5% year-over-year (YOY), while identical sales excluding fuel rose 1.0%.

The company reported operating profit of $1.41 billion and earnings per share (EPS) of $1.46. Adjusted FIFO operating profit totaled $1.54 billion, while adjusted EPS was $1.58.

Kroger said...

Coalition for Metabolic Health Joins USDA's Dietary Guidelines National Strategic Partnership

The Coalition for Metabolic Health announced it has joined the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Dietary Guidelines National Strategic Partnership, an effort to strengthen national collaboration around nutrition and public health by helping Americans understand how the Dietary Guidelines for Americans can support healthy eating.

"The Dietary Guidelines influence federal food programs and shape dietary norms nationwide, affecting meals in American homes, schools, hospitals, and more," said Dr. Maya Maroto, executive director of the Coalition for Metabolic Health. "We were encouraged by the new guidelines' emphasis on whole foods...

Hardee’s Launches ‘Running on Full’ Free Breakfast Offer

Hardee's knows when gas prices are this high, filling up the tank is a dreaded chore. According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, gas prices are up over a dollar from a year ago, leaving consumers to make tough choices about where to cut costs. That's why the American quick-service restaurant brand is launching "Running on Full," a campaign built on a simple truth: when your gas tank reads "E," your stomach doesn't have to.

With the "Running on Full" campaign, Hardee's...

Archer Meat Snacks Launches First-Ever Chicken Protein Snack

Archer Meat Snacks (archerjerky.com), one of America’s fastest-growing clean-ingredient meat snack brands, announced its largest product expansion to date: a new 8-count Mini Stick multipack lineup that introduces the company’s first-ever chicken product, Oven-Roasted Chicken Mini Sticks, alongside a new Sweet BBQ Beef Mini Sticks flavor. The new products ship to Target beginning June 2026 while Walmart has added about 7,500 new Archer shelf placements, giving health-conscious families easier ways to stock up on real-ingredient protein snacks in delicious flavors.

Got Beef Introduces ‘Granny,’ an AI-Generated Brand Spokesperson

Grass-fed jerky brand unveils a fully AI-produced granny character to anchor its social content as part of a lean, technology-driven operating model.

Got Beef, a direct-to-consumer grass-fed beef jerky brand, announced the launch of “Granny,” an AI-generated brand spokesperson who has already started appearing across the company’s social media platforms and a new billboard campaign. The character marks the centerpiece of the brand’s content strategy and reflects a broader operating approach built around artificial intelligence tools.

Granny is a recurring...

Expana's Weekly Top 10

This week’s Top 10 highlights the key risks, policy developments and market shifts shaping the agri-food landscape, from biosecurity threats and farm labor reform to fertilizer costs, cocoa competition and resilient consumer demand. From the spread of New World screwworm in the US and proposed changes to the H-2A program, to private label growth, Father’s Day meat promotions and climate risks facing West Coast fisheries, these are the stories driving markets this week. This list is in no particular order. 

Find archived recaps here.

10. Private labels continue...

ANALYSIS: Year-End Production Outlook Highlights Poultry Expansion

As the protein complex moves into the back half of 2026, the latest USDA Livestock, Dairy & Poultry Outlook presents an expanding production picture across poultry and pork, while beef output remains constrained. For participants in the broiler complex specifically, the year-end trajectory remains positive, with revised projections now pointing toward a record output year.

The year-end broiler production is forecast at 49.4 billion pounds, a 2.86% increase over 2025 levels and, if realized, a record high for the industry. The latest projection reflects continued upward...

ANALYSIS: Turkey Industry Navigates Uncertainty as Early Production Gains Diminish

Year-to-date (YTD) turkey egg sets and poult placements outpace those of 2025 by 0.6% and 0.7%, respectively, but continue to fall below those of the 5-year average...

Brands Compete on Value, Experience and Summer Promotions in Foodservice

Rising prices, shifting consumer expectations and seasonal marketing pushes are shaping the latest moves across foodservice. From affordability and customer satisfaction trends to global expansion, soccer-themed promotions and summer menu innovation, restaurant brands are refining how they attract traffic, build loyalty and compete for consumer spending.

With fast-food costs climbing and value under greater scrutiny, new studies highlight how affordability and customer satisfaction are shaping consumer choices.

A new WalletHub study finds fast food is becoming less affordable, with sharp state-by-state differences...

Americold Opens New Cold Chain Hub at Port Saint John, Expanding Global Trade Connections

Americold Realty Trust has opened a new import-export hub at Port Saint John, strengthening links between North American producers and international markets while advancing temperature-controlled logistics in Canada.

Unveiled during Port Days 2026, the facility was developed with DP World and Canadian Pacific Kansas City (CPKC). The project combines cold storage, maritime logistics and rail transportation in a single location, creating what the companies describe as the first integrated operation of its kind globally...

Neogen® Committed to Helping Ranchers, Livestock Producers, and Horse Owners Fight Against NWS

Neogen Corporation (NASDAQ: NEOG), an innovative leader in food and animal safety solutions, today announced the expanded availability of FIFRA* Section 2(ee) recommendations for the use of Prozap® Insectrin X Concentrate and Prozap® Screw Worm and Ear Tick Aerosol as part of New World Screwworm (NWS) response efforts. These recommendations provide ranchers, livestock producers, and horse owners with an additional option to support fly management efforts.

In Texas, the Texas Department of Agriculture has approved Section 2(ee) recommendations for these products. Neogen...

FDA: Authorization of Emergency Use for Two Animal Drugs for the Treatment of New World Screwworm

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA or the Agency) is announcing the issuance of two Emergency Use Authorizations (EUA) (Authorization) under the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FD&C Act) for new animal products. FDA has issued one EUA for an animal product as requested by Health and Hygiene (Pty) Ltd. for the prevention and treatment of infestations caused by New World screwworm ( Cochliomyia hominivorax) (NWS) larvae (myiasis) in cattle, horses, minor species of hoof stock, raptors and other wild birds, pet birds...

Pokeworks Expands Limited-Time Menu Strategy with New High-Protein Surf & Turf Bowl

Pokeworks is tapping into growing consumer demand for protein-forward menu options with the launch of its new High-Protein Surf & Turf Bowl, available for a limited time across participating locations nationwide.

The fast-casual poke brand's latest limited-time offering combines premium ahi tuna and chicken breast in a single entrée designed to appeal to guests seeking higher-protein meal options without sacrificing flavor or customization. The bowl delivers 44 grams of protein and 10 grams of fiber, pairing...

Jersey Mike's Unseats Chick-fil-A as America's Top-Rated QSR, ACSI Finds

Jersey Mike's has claimed the top spot in the American Customer Satisfaction Index (ACSI) Restaurant and Food Delivery Study 2026, ending Chick-fil-A's 11-year run as the highest-rated quick-service restaurant brand.

The chain earned an industry-leading customer satisfaction score of 84 as overall restaurant satisfaction remained steady. Quick-service restaurants held an ACSI score of 79 for the third consecutive year, while full-service restaurants maintained a score of 82, continuing to rank among the...

New Guidance to Ease Farm Labor Shortage Applauded

American Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall commented today on the Trump administration’s clarification of a key aspect of farm labor access for the dairy sector.

“Farmers thank the Trump administration for addressing the farm labor crisis by expanding H-2A access for certain dairy jobs. The reality is clear - fewer Americans choose to work on farms while the need for qualified workers increases, creating a difficult labor market for U.S. farm families.

“This is an important step for our hardworking dairy farmers...

Expana's Publication Schedule for Juneteenth, June 19, 2026

Expana will be observing the Juneteenth holiday on Friday, June 19, across its Americas offices. This holiday schedule will impact the publication dates of several Expana Benchmark Prices and some news.

The European and APAC offices’ publication schedules will be unaffected by this holiday. Regular publishing schedules will resume on Monday, June 22, 2026.

The Juneteenth holiday period will affect the following markets...

Iowa Lifts Remaining Restrictions; United States Is Again Free of Pseudorabies in Commercial Swine

Following the April 30, 2026, confirmation of pseudorabies in a small, commercial swine herd in Iowa, USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS), in coordination with the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship (IDALS), has released all movement restrictions within the 2-mile surveillance zone surrounding the affected premises. All swine premises within the 2-mile zone completed required surveillance testing with no further detections. Following depopulation, disposal, cleaning and disinfection, and a 30-day fallow period, the affected premises is no longer under...

USDA Announces Modernization of the Foreign Agricultural Service to Strengthen Market Access 

Today, the U.S. Department of Agriculture announced a reorganization of the Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS) to streamline operations, consolidate support functions, and bring employees and programs closer to America’s agricultural heartland.

The effort is part of a broader Department‑wide initiative that directs agencies to align workforce and facilities with available resources and to use these savings to focus on the core USDA mission to advance American agriculture and revive rural communities...

QDOBA Brings Back Bold Summer Flavors with New Steak Offering, Dessert and Loyalty Rewards Program

QDOBA is heating up summer with the introduction of its new Spicy Tequila Lime Steak, a limited-time protein featuring the brand's signature steak, Cholula® Original Hot Sauce and a zesty tequila lime flavor.

"Summer is an opportunity to bring guests fresh, unexpected flavors and even more reasons to choose QDOBA," said Jon Burke, Chief Marketing Officer at QDOBA. "With Spicy Tequila Lime Steak, Churro Chips and our new Summer Rewards on Q initiative, we're pairing bold seasonal...

Panera Bread Unveils Summer Menu as RISE Transformation Continues

Panera Bread is leaning into better-for-you, high protein and seasonal favorites as it continues to execute its RISE transformation strategy. The company has introduced a refreshed summer menu featuring more than a dozen improved ingredients, new premium salads, new protein options, an elevated beverage platform and new coffee offerings.

"Our Panera summer menu updates reflect the work we're doing across the menu to bring guests more of what they love -- delicious flavor, high-quality ingredients and elevated options from breakfast to dinner. We've upgraded...

Hillshire Reserve™ Brand Redefines Lunchmeat for More Versatile, Elevated Everyday Eating

Hillshire Reserve™ brand is redefining lunchmeat, introducing a new line designed to elevate how it’s enjoyed across the day. With bold flavors, premium ingredients and meats naturally smoked over real hardwood, Hillshire Reserve lunchmeat brings a more refined approach to a familiar category.

From quick lunches to shareable boards, the line expands how lunchmeat fits into everyday routines and more intentional moments at home. Offering a range of varieties for different tastes and occasions, the Hillshire Reserve lunchmeat lineup has options that feel both...

The Retail Rundown: Father’s Day Grilling Highlights Resilient Spending and Selective Buying

For Father’s Day weekend 2026, retailers are leaning heavily into the holiday’s long-standing grilling tradition. This year’s promotions are taking place against a backdrop of persistent inflation and a consumer who remains willing to spend on special occasions despite pressure on household budgets.

According to the National Retail Federation (NRF), Father’s Day spending is projected to reach a record $27.9 billion. Consumers plan to spend an average of $226.58 per person, even as many households contend with higher costs for utilities and other everyday expenses...

USDA Invests in Projects to Strengthen New World Screwworm Preparedness and Response

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is announcing funding for 40 breakthrough projects to bolster the nation’s defenses against New World screwworm (NWS). These innovative proposals, which will receive a combined total of about $105 million, promise to sharpen detection, accelerate control and eradication tools, and strengthen rapid-response capabilities.  

USDA launched the NWS Grand Challenge on January 21, 2026, marking the next milestone for Secretary Rollins’ five-pronged plan to support producers’ success, protect the nation’s food supply, and build long-term resilience against NWS. The...

PODCAST: Ep. 40 - Middle East Conflict, Football World Cup, El Nino

In episode 40 of Agri-Food for Thought, we return with a new format, featuring guests.

We kick off with a news round-up (Middle East conflict situation, Super El Nino).

Then follows a FIFA Football 2026 World Cup update (featuring guests Jaime Almeida, Market Reporter - Beef at Expana, talking about Mexican trends; Ryan Gallagher, Editor at Expana, discussing US beer trends; and an account of a recent interview Simon Duke had with the National Restaurant Association).

The episode concludes with a brief segment by Lisa Guiraud

Kroger-Owned Grocer Faces Pressure Over Cage-Free Egg Commitments

The Humane League, a global nonprofit focused on ending the abuse of animals raised for food, today announced an escalation in its national campaign against Kroger to include its regional brand Harris Teeter. The organization is calling on the premium grocer to publish a clear plan for how it will transition 100% of its egg supply to cage-free sourcing—exposing a stark contrast between its upscale consumer marketing and its supply chain realities.

Headquartered near Charlotte, Harris Teeter sources an estimated 429 million...

Taco Bell Expands Menu Platforms with Limited-Time Fajita-Inspired Offerings

Taco Bell is extending fajita-inspired flavors across two of its core menu platforms with the launch of limited-time Fajita Street Chalupas and Chicken Fajita Nacho Fries nationwide beginning June 18.

The introduction marks the first time the chain has incorporated fajita-style peppers and onions into its Street Chalupa and Nacho Fries platforms, reflecting Taco Bell's continued strategy of leveraging established menu formats with new flavor innovations.

According to the company, the launch builds on years of product testing and development...

Private Brands Gain Momentum as Quality, Health Drive Shopper Loyalty, FMI Reports

Private brands/labels continue to build market share and consumer loyalty, with new research from FMI showing shoppers are increasingly choosing store brands for quality, taste and health benefits and not just value.

According to FMI’s Power of Private Brands 2026: Consumer Trends – From Stores to Homes report, 92% of US grocery shoppers currently have store brand products in their homes, up from 89% last year. Private brand dollar sales also increased 2.8% year-over-year (YOY), outpacing national brand...

Canada Advances African Swine Fever Preparedness With New Zoning Arrangement With Japan

The Honourable Heath MacDonald, Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food is pleased to announce the Government of Canada has successfully established an African swine fever (ASF) zoning arrangement with Japan. This agreement is a significant step in Canada's ongoing preparedness efforts, helping maintain access to this important market while supporting measures to contain and limit the spread of disease and protect animal health.

Under the new arrangement, pork exports to Japan will continue from ASF-freezones, even if the disease is present elsewhere in Canada. This provision is...

ANALYSIS: Three-Origin 95% CL: AU/NZ, CA & Brazil—Price, Spread & US Frozen Beef Import Volume

Imported beef plays an important role in the US supply chain. Because domestic production is dominated by grain-fed cattle, the US lacks sufficient lean beef to produce ground beef and processed meat products at consumer-friendly price points. Australia, New Zealand, and Central and South American origins help fill that gap. These countries also tend to operate on different cattle cycles, meaning that when...

State of Logistics Report Finds Volatility is the New Normal Shaping Global Supply Chains

A central theme of the 2026 State of Logistics Report is a new supply chain paradigm of persistent disruption that has emerged for shippers and logistics providers, and only the most successful are adapting to this challenging business environment.

The Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals (CSCMP) released its findings today during a press briefing at the Empire State Building.

The publication is authored annually by global consulting firm Kearney and presented by Penske Logistics...

Yum! Brands to Sell Pizza Hut in $2.7B Two-Part Deal

Yum! Brands is selling Pizza Hut in a pair of transactions worth $2.7 billion, splitting the business between LongRange Capital and Yum China as it sharpens its portfolio focus.

Under the agreements, LongRange will acquire Pizza Hut outside Mainland China for about $1.5 billion, with Yum! eligible for a further $75 million earn-out by 2030. Yum China will acquire Pizza Hut’s Mainland China business for about $1.2 billion.

The move follows a strategic review launched in November 2025

SAWA Bill Would Reshape US Farmer's Labor Costs

As of June 15, a newly proposed bill called "Securing Agriculture's Workforce Act" (SAWA) would update the H-2A Temporary Agricultural Worker Program via changes related to worker eligibility, wage calculations, and administrative procedures, reported Fresh Plaza about a topic that would impact US vegetable growers, and other ag market participants as pressure builds to modernize the temporary visa program for farm labor.

Pork Producers, Ohio Farm Bureau File Brief in Feral Swine Law Case

The National Pork Producers Council joined the Ohio Pork Council and the Ohio Farm Bureau Federation in filing a friend-of-the-court brief in support of Ohio’s effort to reinstate a law that prohibits the importation and hunting of feral swine and wild boar and eliminates the practice of feeding swine garbage in the state.

The groups are asking the Ohio Supreme Court to take up a case involving a hunting business and reverse a state appellate court ruling against the Ohio law. The statute was approved...

FMI Welcomes Trump Administration’s Stakeholder Engagement on Food Traceability Rule

Following the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) public meeting today on the Food Traceability Rule, FMI – The Food Industry Association reiterated the industry’s support for the Trump administration’s efforts to provide additional time and flexibility for compliance. FMI Chief Public Policy Officer Jennifer Hatcher offered the following statement.

“The food industry shares FDA’s commitment to enhancing public health and improving the ability to trace products during food safety events and doing so in the most efficient way possible. FMI and our member companies have consistently advocated for an approach...

Secretary Rollins Announces Historic $125 Million Annual Investment in Agricultural Research 

U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins and U.S. Secretary of Education Linda McMahon hosted several land-grant university leaders at USDA for a roundtable discussion and announced the opening of the FY2026 funding opportunity for the Research Facilities Act program. President Trump’s Working Families Tax Cuts provided $125 million annually for the Research Facilities Act program and this historic investment will help address decades of deferred maintenance and accelerate modernization of agricultural research facilities across the country...

US Restaurants Expect World Cup Lift Despite Financial Pressures, NRA Tells Expana

Despite elevated gasoline prices stemming from tensions including the war in Iran and further geopolitical tensions, the US restaurant and foodservice industry expects consumer demand to remain resilient through the 2026 FIFA Football World Cup, according to Dr. Chad Moutray, Chief Economist of the National Restaurant Association.

In an interview with Expana, Dr. Moutray explained that this outlook reflects a broader consumer behavior pattern where dining out has maintained its status as a priority spending category even as households navigate financial pressures.

CDC Activates Emergency Operations Center for New World Screwworm Response

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) officially activated a Level 3 emergency response to New World screwworm (NWS) on June 11. Level 3 is the lowest level in CDC's 3-level response structure.

CDC is supporting the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) in responding to the recent initial detections of New World Screwworm (NWS) infestations in animals in southern Texas and in one county of New Mexico. USDA has a dashboard showing where animal cases have occurred.

While NWS...

Avian Flu Confirmed at Live Bird Market in Providence

Rhode Island Department of Health (RIDOH) and Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (DEM) want to alert consumers that birds at Antonelli Poultry in Providence tested positive for the H5N1 strain of avian influenza during routine quarterly testing by the US Department of Agriculture (USDA). The infected birds, which included live chickens and ducks, did not come from Rhode Island farms. They were from out-of-state dealers.

Earlier today (June 13), the State Veterinarian oversaw the USDA-required humane euthanasia of about 445 asymptomatic birds at the market to prevent the spread of the disease to other birds. Per USDA regulations, Antonelli Poultry will be closed until...

Walmart Opens Walmart.com to International Customers

Walmart is giving customers in Mexico more choices than ever before. With an expanded assortment now available through Walmart.com, customers can shop a broader selection of products, discover new brands, and access options that were previously unavailable through Walmart. This milestone advances Walmart's commitment to expanding marketplace assortment and delivering greater convenience, value, and choice to more customers around the world, while complementing the company's existing eCommerce platforms.

"We're focused on making it easy for customers to access an expanded assortment of products," said Manish Joneja, SVP, Walmart Marketplace, Walmart Inc. "This is a milestone in the...

Hickenlooper, Colleagues Urge USDA to Address New World Screwworm Outbreak

Yesterday [June 11, 2026], U.S. Senator John Hickenlooper joined 20 of his Senate colleagues in calling on the U.S. Department of Agriculture to take further immediate action to contain and respond to the outbreak of New World Screwworm (NWS) in the United States.

“We write with great concern regarding the current outbreak of New World Screwworm (NWS) within the United States and the growing threat this pest poses to livestock producers, farm workers, companion animals, wildlife, and rural economies across the country,” wrote the senators. “Since June 3, 2026...

ANALYSIS: Screwworm Returns—Comparing 2026's Threat to the 1960s US Eradication Era

The current New World screwworm situation is a bit different from the outbreak that was seen in the United States during the 1950s and 1960s. At that time, screwworm was endemic throughout much of the southern United States, creating a persistent animal health challenge and resulting in substantial production losses for cattle producers. Through the successful implementation of the Sterile Insect Technique, the pest was eradicated from the United States in 1966, and for decades the industry has operated without the threat of widespread infestations. 

Today's situation is not a widespread domestic outbreak but rather a reintroduction of the threat from the northward...

ANALYSIS: US Imported Lamb Volumes Contract in 2026 Amid Tight Australian and New Zealand Supplies

According to USDA National Weekly Volume data for Imported Lamb Cuts, US imported lamb volumes continue to trend well below year-ago levels in 2026. Through the week ending June 1, fresh imported lamb cuts totaled 26.94 million lbs, down 39.0% from 44.14 million lbs during the same period in 2025. Frozen imported lamb volumes reached 28.22 million lbs, down 28.6% from 39.50 million lbs a year earlier. Combined fresh and frozen imports totaled 55.17 million lbs...

Rancher’s Premium Smokehouse Expands to Grocery Outlet in Four States

Rancher’s Premium Smokehouse is expanding distribution with a new placement at Grocery Outlet, adding select stores across Washington, California, Oregon and Pennsylvania as the Dallas-based sausage brand looks to build on recent retail momentum.

The move gives shoppers access to the brand’s three core varieties : Bacon Cheddar, Brisket Burnt Ends and Philly Cheesesteak, in participating stores’ refrigerated meat departments.

The Grocery Outlet rollout follows a strong growth period for Rancher’s, which said it has become one of the fastest-growing brands in the sausage category. The company...

US Beef, Pork, Lamb Featured at Foodservice Training Programs in the ASEAN

USMEF continues to introduce U.S. beef, pork and lamb directly to potential foodservice customers in the ASEAN region under a customizable training program developed with importers and distributors. Under USMEF’s ASEAN American Epicurean Table (AAET) program, USMEF chefs conduct hands-on workshops for current and potential foodservice customers. Regional trends are presented as the chefs introduce alternative cuts and new applications for cuts these customers currently buy.

Training sessions are implemented throughout the region on an ongoing basis, including two recent workshops with a major importer in the Philippines.

Pilgrim’s Announces Investment in Ellijay, Georgia to Align With Growing Consumer Demand

Pilgrim’s today announced a strategic investment to expand and modernize its Ellijay, Georgia poultry facility, strengthening the company’s ability to meet evolving consumer preferences, support key customer growth, and enhance long-term operational excellence.

The approximately $75 million investment will increase harvesting and portioning capacity in Ellijay and enable the facility to produce a broader mix of higher-value, boneless chicken products — including those used in popular chicken sandwiches, tenders, and other fast-growing categories. This investment supports key customers’ growth plans, through a change in Pilgrim’s...

USDA Issues Directive to Restore Grazing on National Forest Lands for America’s Ranchers

Today, U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins announced the distribution of a comprehensive directive to all U.S. Forest Service employees from the Office of the Under Secretary for Natural Resources and Environment (NRE). These actions advance implementation of the Advancing Grazing on Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Lands Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) and the USDA–Department of the Interior Grazing Action Plan, delivering on the Trump Administration’s commitment to strengthen American ranching, restore multiple-use management on federal lands, and combat regulatory lawfare...

ANALYSIS: US Pork Export Momentum Extends into April 2026 on Latin American Strength

US pork exports sustained broad-based year over year (YOY) momentum in April 2026, with total volume reaching 615,278.40 K Lbs, up 5.6% from April 2025 and easing 9.3% sequentially from March's elevated pace, a pullback consistent with typical seasonal normalization.

YOY gains were broad-based and anchored by the Western Hemisphere. Mexico, which commands roughly 35% of total US pork export volume and...

ANALYSIS: US Cage-Free Market Remains Stable Throughout June 

The US cage-free market remains stable at $0.69/dozen, where it has held throughout the month of June. A combination of ongoing flock rotations and modestly improved demand has helped stabilize values, though freight costs continue to be one of the largest variables influencing market dynamics. 

Since the onset of the US-Iran conflict and the resulting rise in fuel costs, shipping product around the country has become less a question of where eggs are available and more a question of where freight...

Expana's Weekly Top 10

From biosecurity threats and trade tensions to sustainability breakthroughs and climate-driven market risks, this week's Top 10 captures the developments commanding attention across global commodity markets. Industry participants are balancing innovation with uncertainty as new packaging and feed solutions emerge, tariffs continue to reshape trade flows, and concerns over animal health, inflation, and weather volatility create fresh challenges for the months ahead as we enter into the traditional summer lull. This list is in no particular order.

Shannon Behary checked in with a pair of headlines in the...

Middle East Market Intelligence Brief: Week Ending June 12, 2026

A US–Iran memorandum to pause the Gulf war could be signed as soon as Sunday, though wording is still being finalized.

Iran is pushing for the deal to also end fighting in Lebanon and includes demands like lifting sanctions, unfreezing Iranian assets, and halting hostilities across all fronts, while nuclear issues would be postponed.

Trump said a “great settlement” was ready and called off new strikes, but details remain unclear. Reports also suggest tensions persist around the Strait of Hormuz, a key route for global energy supplies.
 
Below is...

American Egg Board Continues to Take US Eggs to the World Stage

In May 2026, American Egg Board (AEB) simultaneously deployed teams to two countries on opposite sides of Asia, a deliberate investment in the global market development work that will move U.S. eggs around the world. While one team represented U.S. eggs at THAIFEX 2026 in Bangkok, Thailand, another was in Tokyo, Japan presenting to the Japan Egg Dealers Association (JEDA) and meeting with key customers and U.S. embassy staff. The parallel efforts reflect AEB’s continued commitment to building the international relationships and market presence necessary to move more U.S. eggs around the world...

NestFresh Completes Transition to Humanely Hatched Eggs Across Entire Portfolio

NestFresh has completed the transition of its entire egg portfolio to Humanely Hatched™ sourcing, marking a significant expansion of in-ovo sexing technology in the US egg industry.

The move comes one year after the company introduced Humanely Hatched™ eggs nationwide. The technology identifies the sex of chicks before hatching, helping eliminate the routine euthanization of male chicks, a longstanding animal welfare concern in egg production.

NestFresh said the transition has helped spare more than 800,000 male chicks over the past year...

Crop-Threatening 'Super El Niño' Also Likely to Create Regional Winners, Say Expana Experts

This year’s (2026-2027) El Niño weather phenomenon can significantly affect global commodities, and food price inflation can be expected, especially if it is confirmed to be what is commonly known as a ‘Super El Niño’.

While most of the mainstream media's focus is on the devastating consequences of the Super El Niño phenomenon, it is worth noting that it will have a large but also highly varied economic impact across different regions. There are both winning and losing countries - and by extension, agricultural commodities

Klobuchar, Luján, Slotkin, Heinrich, Colleagues Urge USDA to Address New World Screwworm Outbreak

WASHINGTON – Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Ranking Member of the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry, and Senators Ben Ray Luján (D-NM), Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), and Martin Heinrich (D-NM) are leading 17 of their colleagues in calling on the U.S. Department of Agriculture to take further immediate action to contain and respond to the outbreak of New World Screwworm (NWS) in the United States.

“We write with great concern regarding the current outbreak of New World Screwworm (NWS) within the United States and the growing threat this pest poses to livestock producers, farm workers, companion animals, wildlife, and rural economies...

University of California - What Is Screwworm, and What Is the Outlook for the Outbreak?

The New World screwworm lays its eggs in open wounds and burrows into skin. While human infections are rare, the insect poses an existential threat to cattle farming and dairy production. And it has returned to the United States.

While the U.S. Department of Agriculture officially declared the parasite eradicated from the country in 1966, several notable outbreaks and incursions have occurred since then. One of those is happening now.

On Wednesday, the USDA confirmed a case in South Texas. It could decimate that state's...

Final Finding of No Significant Impact for African Swine Fever Response in the Event of Outbreak

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) is making available to the public a final programmatic environmental assessment (PEA) and finding of no significant impact (FONSI) for agency response activities for African swine fever (ASF) outbreaks in domestic swine in the United States and U.S. Territories.

ASF is a contagious and deadly viral swine disease affecting domestic and feral swine of all ages. ASF does not affect human health and cannot be transmitted from swine to humans. However, the disease can cause economic devastation to the swine industry and great socioeconomic impacts to consumers in affected...

Versatility, Protein Benefits of US Pork Loin Featured at Running Event in Japan

Japanese-style cooked chicken breast that is lightly seasoned and ready to eat has become a go-to protein choice for young active crowds in Japan. Marketed as “salad chicken,” this product category has surpassed traditional protein bars in popularity.

USMEF has been promoting American pork loin as a versatile and tasty alternative to “salad chicken” and protein bars at fitness-oriented events and in social media. USMEF’s use of the term “salad pork” during such promotions helps...

FAO Calls for Stronger Prevention and Global Action as Transboundary Animal Diseases Spread

Countries around the world are facing a growing threat from transboundary animal diseases (TADs), including New World Screwworm, African Swine Fever, Avian Influenza, Foot-and-Mouth Disease, and Peste des Petits Ruminants, as well as other emerging zoonotic threats such as Andes hantavirus, Ebola, and Nipah.  As diseases and pests move more rapidly across borders, countries are facing increasing pressure to strengthen prevention, preparedness and response systems.

The stakes are high. Livestock sectors support more than one billion livelihoods and contribute trillions of dollars in economic value each year. Protecting animal health is therefore critical not...

US Pork Exports on Robust Pace through April; Beef Exports Below Year-Ago

Exports of U.S. pork maintained strong momentum in April, led by broad-based growth in Asian and Western Hemisphere markets, according to data released by USDA and compiled by the U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF). Beef exports trended lower in April due to the impasse with China, along with year-over-year declines in other major markets.

Pork exports totaled 257,212 metric tons (mt) in April, 8% (and nearly 20,000 mt) above last year, while value increased 6% to $718.1 million. April’s strong performance reflected growth in Mexico, Japan, the Dominican Republic, Central America...