Ranchers Encouraged by Grizzly Bear Management Returning to States

Yesterday, the Department of the Interior and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) released a revised 4(d) rule for grizzly bear management that would return management authority to states. The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) and the Public Lands Council (PLC) previously urged the Trump administration to reject the Biden-era proposal finalized in early 2025 and are encouraged to see a renewed focus on ensuring the Endangered Species Act (ESA) works as intended—supporting species’ recovery, recognizing conservation successes, and working collaboratively with state partners...

Farm Bureau: Farmer Losses Projected to Deepen

Several years of high inflation and low commodity prices, coupled with volatile production costs, are continuing to squeeze farmers financially. These forces are projected to hit farmers with $32 billion in losses for the major row crops in 2027 after a projected loss of $31 billion in 2026. Fruit, vegetable, nut and other specialty crop farmers faced billions of dollars in losses in 2025, with difficult market conditions continuing throughout 2026. American Farm Bureau Federation economists analyzed the losses felt across the farm economy in the latest Farm Bureau Intel.

The Farm Bureau Intel states, “Corn losses are projected to increase from $131 per acre in 2026 to $167 per acre in 2027. Soybean losses are projected to increase from $80 per acre...

Instacart Buys Arpalus to Expand Real-Time Shelf Intelligence and Improve Fulfillment Accuracy

Instacart has acquired Arpalus, a computer-vision firm that turns quick shelf-video scans into real-time on-shelf inventory data. This move is a direct play to reduce out-of-stocks, catalog gaps and the substitutions and cancellations that undermine online grocery fulfillment.

Arpalus’ models, built for grocery realities (low Wi‑Fi, poor lighting, thousands of similar SKUs), identify items with better than 95% accuracy and run on any smartphone or camera device. That lets Instacart’s roughly 600,000 shoppers generate shelf intelligence at...

Checkers & Rally's Doubles Down on Value with Unbeatable Meal Deal and Bold Menu Innovations

As consumers continue seeking more value from their dining dollars, Checkers & Rally's is doubling down on its commitment to delivering bold flavor at an unbeatable price.

Now available at participating locations nationwide, the $4 Unbeatable Meal Deal – with a $5 Meal Deal offered in select markets – gives guests more of what they crave without compromising on taste or value. For just $4 (or $5), guests can enjoy a complete meal featuring a choice of a new Loaded Tender...

ANALYSIS: Economic Shifts Influence Turkey Retail Distribution

Total points of distribution of turkey at the retail counter through the middle of June show changing consumer demand patterns...

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...

Sodexo Launches its 2030 Growth Acceleration Plan

Sodexo is hosting today its Investor Update in Paris, where Thierry Delaporte, Chief Executive Officer of Sodexo, and members of the management team will present Shift & Grow 2030, the Company’s roadmap focused on accelerating growth and restoring competitiveness, alongside the Group’s mid-term financial ambition.

Key highlights

— Shift & Grow 2030, a clear execution framework to accelerate growth and restore competitiveness

— Ambition to reach above +5% organic growth and above 5% operating margin by Fiscal 2030.

— Client-first approach, supported by clearer focus across geographies

American Egg Board’s Eggcelerator Lab® Announces Winners of 2026 Product Development Competition

The American Egg Board’s (AEB) Eggcelerator Lab^®, the egg industry’s premier innovation center, has announced the winners of its 2026 Product Development Competition. This year’s challenge invited undergraduate and graduate students to develop innovative egg-based beverages that showcase the versatility, functionality and nutritional benefits of eggs in emerging beverage formats.

Texas A&M University students Ikenna Okehie, Muhammad Bilal Haider and Rebeka Saldivar took first place with Ovivive. The egg-based functional beverage is clean-label and provides a rich, creamy, dairy-free experience powered...

Rancher’s Premium Smokehouse Expands in Piggly Wiggly Stores

Rancher’s Premium Smokehouse, a family-owned business based in Texas, has announced its expansion into 98 additional Piggly Wiggly stores in Alabama following a successful launch in stores across Georgia and the Carolinas.

The move comes in response to strong demand for the company’s products. Rancher’s Premium Smokehouse reported 202% year-over-year sales growth while continuing to expand distribution with major grocery retailers nationwide.

Shoppers in Alabama can now choose from three varieties, all located in the refrigerated meat section.

The Brisket Burnt Ends Smoked Sausage...

Southern Chicken Chain Zaxbys Brings its Famous Fingerz & Sauces to New York

Atlanta-born chicken chain Zaxbys® is touching down in New York with its saucy footprint this summer, representing a significant step in its national expansion strategy and bringing its operations across 24 states. Known for its Famous Fingerz™, 12 signature sauces and expansive menu of craveable menu items, Zaxbys is opening not one, but two locations in New York with openings in the Bronx and Manhattan.

"New York is one of the most influential food cities in the world, and we're incredibly...

KFC Revives Popcorn Chicken in Response to Fan Demand

Earlier this week, KFC welcomed back its Popcorn Chicken, responding to consumer demand for its return. The fan-favorite was first introduced in the 1990s before coming off menus sometime in 2023.

The new offering is available in three ways while supplies last, as the company promotes its return.

First, the $10 Chicken Bucket comes with 16 oz. of Popcorn Chicken, intended to be shared, and is served with four dipping sauces. Next, the Popcorn Chicken Big Box includes 6 oz. of Popcorn Chicken, two...

Domino's Bolsters Board with Dollar Tree CEO Michael Creedon Jr. and Tech Veteran Anneliese Olson

Domino's Pizza has appointed two new independent directors, welcoming Michael C. Creedon, Jr. and Anneliese Olson to its board.

"We're pleased to welcome Mike and Anneliese to the Board," said David Brandon, Domino's Executive Chairman. "Their deep experience leading consumer and technology-driven businesses will bring valuable, fresh perspectives as Domino's continues to execute our long-term strategy."

Creedon has held several leadership roles during his career with companies like Advance Auto Parts, Tyco International and ADT Security. He currently serves...

Firehouse Subs® Named 'Official Sub' of Major League Baseball®

Firehouse Subs®, the firefighter-founded restaurant brand known for hearty, hot subs, today announced its first professional sports league partnership: a multi-year deal with Major League Baseball® (MLB), making Firehouse Subs the 'Official Sub' of MLB across the United States and Canada. To celebrate the start of the second half of the baseball season, Firehouse Subs will launch "Extra Innings, Extra Subs" – a season-long promotion that rewards fans all summer long.

Beginning Friday, July 17, any time...

The Retail Rundown: Grocers Push Promotions to Drive Summer and Back-to-School Baskets

As grilling season nears its peak, retailers are competing for consumer dollars with promotions aimed at increasingly value-conscious shoppers willing to switch proteins, or trade down within a protein category, to stretch grocery budgets.

Beef, along with several premium seafood products, command the highest retail prices, consistent with historical norms. However, price premiums have widened noticeably for several red meat and seafood categories, including steaks, shellfish, and finfish.

Retailers have limited flexibility to aggressively promote beef amid historically tight cattle supplies and elevated wholesale beef prices. While ground beef remains one of the strongest...

Instacart, Tractor Supply Partner to Deliver Pet Supplies and Farm Essentials

Instacart, the leading grocery technology company in North America, and Tractor Supply Company, the largest rural lifestyle retailer in the United States, today announced a new nationwide partnership to offer same-day delivery from more than 2,400 Tractor Supply stores through the Instacart App and website.

Starting today, customers can shop Tractor Supply's broad assortment on Instacart – including pet food and supplies, livestock feed, farm and ranch products, garden essentials, tools and hardware – with delivery in as fast as one hour at no markups.

"We're...

Acosta Group Names Joe Mueller Chief Retailer Partnerships Officer

As retailers and suppliers navigate an increasingly complex marketplace, Acosta Group today announced that Joe Mueller, one of the retail industry's most respected customer development leaders, will join the company as Chief Retailer Partnerships Officer, a newly created role focused on strengthening retailer relationships and advancing collaboration across the retail ecosystem.

In this role, Mueller will partner closely with agency leadership teams across Acosta Group's Omnichannel Sales & Services organization, helping strengthen retailer relationships, identify growth opportunities for clients and customers, and provide retail...

Canadian Beef Industry Encouraged by Proposed Regulatory Amendments to Improve Competitiveness

The Canadian Meat Council (CMC) and the Canadian Cattle Association are encouraged to see Canada Gazette 1 Part I, Volume 160, Number 28: Regulations Amending Certain Regulations Relating to Harmonization of the Enhanced Feed Ban published on July 11, 2026 which includes long-sought updates to Canada's specified risk material (SRM) requirements. This proposed regulation will benefit Canada's beef industry by saving millions annually and improving our competitiveness with the United States.

Since 2021, when Canada obtained its bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE) negligible risk status, CCA...

NCBA and PLC Support a Return to Reasonable Boundaries for Bears Ears and Grand Staircase Monuments

Today, President Trump modified the Bears Ears National Monument and Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument to restore multiple use management, including grazing, to more than 2 million acres. The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) and Public Lands Council (PLC) have been working for over a decade to protect livestock grazing in an area that has been devastated by repeated misuse of the Antiquities Act that jeopardized grazing and with a midnight order at the end of the Obama administration.

“Revisions of the boundaries of...

PrimoHoagies Elevates Brand Storytelling Under Marketing Leader Madalyn Weintraub

PrimoHoagies, the award-winning Italian specialty sandwich franchise known for its authentic hoagies, premium ingredients, and more than 34 years of family stewardship, is strengthening another critical pillar of its long-term growth strategy through the leadership of Vice President of Marketing, Madalyn Weintraub.

Bringing more than 20 years of restaurant, franchising, and marketing experience, Weintraub joins PrimoHoagies after helping transform Rita's Italian Ice from a beloved regional favorite into one of franchising's most recognized brands, supporting expansion into more than 30 states domestically and internationally...

FMI Statement on June 2026 CPI Food Price Numbers

Today, FMI – The Food Industry Association commented on the June Consumer Price Index (CPI) numbers from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), which shows a 0.2% increase in food-at-home prices for June and a 2.7% increase over the last 12 months, which is the same as in May. 

"June's relatively steady food inflation report should be welcome news for grocery shoppers following the larger increases we saw earlier this year, even as the longer-term outlook remains uncertain. While food prices remain elevated compared with a year ago, June’s historically consistent...

Pizza Hut Targets Repeat Visits with Throwback Menu, Dinner Service NY Collab and Loyalty Play

In May, Pizza Hut signaled a strategic push into nostalgia-driven dining, revamping more than 155 US locations with retro design cues intended to reinforce family dining and familiar brand appeal. The updates included throwback elements from the chain’s earlier years, such as checkered tablecloths, vinyl booths, Tiffany-style lamps, arcade games and, in some cases, the iconic red roof.

Building on that positioning, the company is debuting the Throwback Value Menu for a limited time, bringing back core...

Niman Ranch Appoints Shake Shack Veteran as New Vice President and General Manager

Perdue Specialty Meats today announced the appointment of Jeff Amoscato as Vice President and General Manager of Niman Ranch, where he will lead the strategy, operations and growth of the premium protein brand. 

Amoscato joins Perdue Specialty Meats – which includes the Niman Ranch and Coleman All Natural Meats brands and their production operations – with more than two decades of leadership experience spanning premium restaurants, hospitality, culinary innovation, sourcing, supply chain and brand growth. Throughout his career, he has helped build and scale some of the food industry's most respected brands while earning a reputation for collaborative leadership, operational excellence and an unwavering commitment to quality...

Steakholder’s Perfecta Line Lands in US, Kicking Off Northeastern Retail Rollout

Steakholder Foods Ltd. has entered the US retail market with the arrival of the first shipment of its Perfecta™ Premium Plant‑Based Meat, ahead of an initial launch across dozens of retail stores in the Northeastern United States.

The company first announced in May that it planned to launch Perfecta™ Premium Plant‑Based Meat in the US market in the second half of 2026.

According to Expana's recent report, Perfecta is the company's new line of plant‑based proteins, featuring whole‑cut steaks and...

New England Aquarium Debuts Harbor Exhibit as Summer Season Gets Underway

The New England Aquarium has launched a new exhibit highlighting New England harbor ecosystems as part of its expanded summer programming, which also includes extended operating hours, new visitor experiences, and seasonal attractions.

Open daily from 9 am to 6 pm through Labor Day, the Aquarium enters the peak summer season with a renovated front lobby completed this spring and a refreshed lineup of exhibits and programming.

The centerpiece of the summer season is the new New England Harbor exhibit, a 1,000-gallon display showcasing native...

Circana’s 2026/2027 Global Food and Beverage Outlook Predicts Slow-to-Moderate Growth 

U.S. consumers are no longer just cutting back; they are recalibrating how they buy, according to new Circana Compass research released today by Circana LLC. The insights show the U.S. retail food and beverage (F&B) industry grew 2.2% in the first half of 2026, and Circana projects growth will settle into a 2-3% range in 2027 as shoppers optimize spending amid financial pressure, shifting lifestyle priorities, and increasingly digital, AI-assisted shopping behavior. The findings signal a return toward pre..

CNBC/NRF Retail Monitor Shows Ninth Month of Sales Growth in June

Retail sales climbed for the ninth month in a row during June as positive factors overcame challenges to the economy, according to the CNBC/NRF Retail Monitor, powered by Affinity Solutions, released today [July 13, 2026] by the National Retail Federation.

“The summer shopping season got off to a strong start in June,” NRF President and CEO Matthew Shay said. “Consumers took advantage of summer sales events, and many got an early jump on back-to-school shopping. The willingness to spend on retail goods has been supported by the retail industry’s laser focus on affordability as well...

Expana's Weekly Top 10

Global agri-food markets remained driven by policy decisions and supply concerns this week, from Europe’s latest move on the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) to tightening phosphate availability in Brazil. Meanwhile, the seafood sector saw major regulatory developments in both the US and EU, while strategic investments and acquisitions reshaped the beverages and aquaculture industries. Catch up on these stories and more below. This list is in no particular order. 

Find archived recaps here.

Fertilizer Policy shifts and production cuts put the market in focus

The European...

Marler Clark Files Another E. coli Lawsuit in Expanding Kebab Shop Outbreak

Marler Clark, The Food Safety Law Firm, today announced that it has filed another lawsuit on behalf of a victim sickened in the Escherichia coli O157 outbreak linked to contaminated beef kofta served at The Kebab Shop restaurants in California.

The lawsuit is the latest legal action arising from an outbreak that has sickened multiple people, including several children, across California. According to public health officials, at least nine people have been infected with the outbreak strain of E. coli O157. Five victims have required hospitalization...

ANALYSIS: US Cage-Free Market Rises on Export Demand, Flock Rotations, and Heat

US cage-free wholesale values posted their strongest weekly advance since May, with the rest-of-market quote climbing 8% to $0.84/dozen while California large gained 15cts to $0.99/dozen. The increase reflects a rapid tightening in spot availability, fueled by a combination of strong export movement, ongoing flock rotations, weather-related production impacts, and increasingly aggressive buying activity.

Persistent export demand into Asia continues to draw product away from the domestic market, requiring buyers and distributors to backfill those commitments through the spot...

Applebee’s® Introduces New Bacon Cheeseburger Wonton Tacos on 2 for $25 Menu

Today, Applebee’s® announced the debut of Bacon Cheeseburger Wonton Tacos on the signature 2 for $25 value menu. Available until August 16, this limited-time release combines two Applebee’s fan favorites—tacos and cheeseburgers—bringing a classic American flavor profile to its iconic crispy shell. Guests can enjoy the new appetizer along with two full-size entrees for just $25,* making it one of the best restaurant deals of the summer. To round out the meal, Applebee’s is also...

Back by Popular Demand: Epic Pepperoni-Stuffed Crust Pizza Returns to Papa Johns

This summer, Papa Johns is bringing back the fan-favorite Epic Pepperoni-Stuffed Crust Pizza for a limited time. Crafted with Papa Johns fresh, never-frozen original dough made from six simple ingredients, stuffed by hand with real pepperoni and cheese baked directly into the crust, the Epic Pepperoni-Stuffed Crust Pizza showcases the quality ingredients and craftsmanship that set Papa Johns apart.

The Epic Pepperoni-Stuffed Crust Pizza is handcrafted with sliced pepperoni and cheese tucked inside the crust, ensuring premium...

Prima Lands in Nearly 500 Kroger Stores as the Brand Targets Conventional Grocery Growth

Prima is expanding into nearly 500 Kroger stores nationwide, marking the ancestral protein bar brand's largest conventional grocery rollout to date as it looks to capitalize on growing demand for products made with simpler ingredient lists.

The expansion, which begins today, gives the fast-growing brand access to millions of shoppers through banners including Kroger, Fred Meyer, Smith's, Fry's, Ralph's, King Soopers, Mariano's and City Market. Products will be merchandised in the natural products section on the retailer's dedicated Natural...

Olive Garden Announces the Return of its Iconic Never-Ending Pasta Pass

Some things are worth waiting for – especially when they're never-ending. After a six-year hiatus, Olive Garden is bringing back its iconic Never-Ending Pasta Pass. Passholders will enjoy 13 weeks of unlimited pasta, homemade sauces, and protein toppings, plus never-ending soup or salad and breadsticks during this year's Never-Ending Pasta Bowl promotion. Pasta lovers will have their chance to secure one of 10,000 Pasta Passes for $100, plus tax, on July 16 at 2 p.m. ET by visiting...

Meat Institute Applauds USDA Efforts to Address Harmful Biden Packers & Stockyards Act Regulations

The Meat Institute today [July 10, 2026] said the United States Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) efforts to address Biden-Era regulations would ensure beef, pork and poultry producers can be rewarded for raising high quality livestock and poultry and ensure consumers have continued access to exceptional US meat and poultry products.

“We are grateful to President Trump, Secretary Rollins, and Deputy Secretary Vaden for continuing their efforts to get rid of misguided and costly Biden era regulations which placed plaintiff lawyer profits ahead of farmers and ranchers’...

Secretary Rollins Announces Growing Momentum Behind USDA’s Product of USA Label 

U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins today announced that ten additional meat and poultry companies have adopted USDA’s voluntary Product of USA label, marking continued momentum behind the Administration’s efforts to help consumers easily identify products that are truly born, raised, harvested, and processed in the United States. 

Since USDA launched its nationwide awareness campaign earlier this year, more processors across the country have committed to using the Product of USA label, giving consumers greater confidence that when they purchase products bearing the claim, they are directly supporting American farmers, ranchers, processors, and rural communities...

Middle East Market Intelligence Brief: Week Ending July 10, 2026

This week, US President Donald Trump said a US-Iran memorandum aimed at ending the war was no longer valid, following renewed strikes and tensions.

He also announced plans to cut trade ties with Spain, criticizing its NATO contributions, as European leaders sought unity at the alliance summit.

USDA, HHS, EPA Join Forces to Bolster Consumer Protections from Heavy Metals and Other Contaminants 

Today, U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins, U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., and U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Lee Zeldin announced an updated Memorandum of Understanding to reaffirm their shared commitment to protecting consumers from heavy metals and other contaminants in food.

For decades, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) have coordinated through the National Residue Program to monitor and regulate meat, poultry...

Meat Institute: The Cattle Cycle Is Driving Beef Prices. Restructuring the Industry Won't Fix That.

The Meat Institute understands why beef prices matters to virtually every American family. Beef is not a luxury; it is a staple of American family life, from weeknight dinners to Fourth of July barbeques. It’s family, friends, and freedom. When prices are high, families feel it, and our members feel that pressure too. The meat and poultry processing industry is the critical link connecting American ranchers with American consumers as efficiently and affordably as possible.

It is why we have serious concerns about flashy government...

National Chicken Council Supports Trump Administration Deregulatory Efforts

The National Chicken Council (NCC) today voiced strong support for the Trump Administration's 2026 Unified Agenda of Federal Regulatory and Deregulatory Actions, including USDA's plans to rescind three Biden-era Packers and Stockyards rules that threaten to dismantle an efficient and successful industry model that rewards farmers and helps keep chicken affordable for American consumers.

"We thank Secretary Rollins and President Trump for their work in cutting unnecessary red tape on businesses and producers, including the Biden administration's Packers and Stockyard rules," said Harrison Kircher, President, National Chicken Council...

Sam’s Club and Weight Watchers Collaborate to Expand Access to Affordable Wellness Experiences 

Sam’s Club and WW International, Inc. (“Weight Watchers”), two trusted brands that both champion membership and community, today [June 9, 2026] announced a new collaboration to create a more connected, affordable wellness experience. The joint initiative between Sam’s Club, a leading membership retail club, and Weight Watchers, a legacy leader in science-backed weight health, combines expert guidance and nutrition counseling with access to affordable healthy foods, trusted pharmacy services and ongoing support, making it easier for Sam’s Club members to take meaningful steps toward achieving their wellness goals...

AFBF, NFU Call on USDA to Preserve Protection for Farmers

American Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall and National Farmers Union President Rob Larew issued a joint statement today on reports that USDA plans to rescind rules that protect farmers under the Packers and Stockyards Act.

“America’s farmers are deeply troubled by news that USDA plans to rescind or continue to delay several rules that are specifically designed to benefit America’s farmers and ranchers. The rules help protect farmers from retaliation by large processors, increase transparency and improve pay systems for contract poultry growers. They make it clear that unfair and deceptive practices by meatpackers will not be...

Hong Kong Importers Tour US Beef and Pork Production, Meet Suppliers

USMEF brought a team of 11 importers from Hong Kong to the U.S. to learn about beef and pork production, meet with suppliers and experience the versatility of top-quality U.S. beef and pork at a variety of restaurants.

USMEF Hong Kong Senior Marketing Manager Tonia Lai and Retail Manager Reese Liu led the team to Chicago where they visited nearby Trim-Rite Foods before meeting with National Beef at Remington’s Restaurant. The team also enjoyed dinner at Rosebud Steakhouse, which serves Meats by Linz, a USMEF member.

In Nebraska, the team toured the...

HORMEL Pepperoni Launches Snack Bites for the Moments When Hunger Doesn't Wait

HORMEL Pepperoni brand has launched HORMEL® Pepperoni Snack Bites, a new refrigerated protein snack designed for moments when people want something fast and satisfying.

Available in three flavors — Original, Parmesan and Dill Pickle — HORMEL® Pepperoni Snack Bites are made with thick-sliced pepperoni in a smaller, snackable format built for grazing, sharing or eating straight from the fridge. The resealable tray keeps it simple: open it when you want it, close it when you don't.

"Whether it's a mid-afternoon craving...

NCC Updates Broiler Welfare Guidelines; Gains Certification from Leading Welfare Auditing Authority

Consumers want to be sure that all animals raised for food are treated with respect and are properly cared for throughout their lives. The people and companies who raise chickens for food share that commitment.

To support chicken producers and processors in this effort, the National Chicken Council (NCC) in 1999 developed the NCC Broiler Welfare Guidelines and Audit Checklist, which have been widely adopted across the industry to help ensure chickens are properly cared for and treated humanely. Reviewed regularly...

ANALYSIS: Cumulative Broiler Headcount Continues to Trend Above 2025 

Through the week ending June 27^th, year-to-date (YTD) U.S. young chicken headcount totaled 4.42 billion head, up 2.64% versus a comparable period in 2025...

ANALYSIS: Turkey Production Sets Seasonal Low in May After Sharp Decline Since March

Year-to-date (YTD) headcount of turkeys harvested this year continues to outpace that of last year, despite slightly lower numbers year-over-year (YOY) in May...

UNFI Shuffles Leadership to Strengthen Operations and Commercial Execution

United Natural Foods Inc. (UNFI) is making leadership changes aimed at strengthening execution, improving efficiency and supporting long-term profitable growth.

Effective Aug 3, Matteo Tarditi will become President and Chief Operating Officer (COO), overseeing product sales, enterprise customer relationships, supply chain operations, technology and lean implementation. Tarditi previously served as president and chief financial officer.

Louis Martin will serve as Chief Commercial Officer (CCO), with responsibility for commercial strategy and capabilities across conventional and natural merchandising, supplier partnerships and services, private brands, professional and digital services...

Taste What Pork Can Do Celebrates Global Flavors

The National Pork Board (NPB) is transforming game day tension—messy food versus prized jerseys—into a social-driven campaign to promote pork.

An integral component of its Taste What Pork Can Do campaign, the integrated rollout includes game day inspired recipes specially developed by Celebrity Chef Marcus Samuelsson, influencer partnerships, and an audacious giveaway.

"As someone who has been chasing flavors from around the world for my whole life, I love how versatile and delicious pork is no matter how you make it. Whether it's in a spicy Latin American stew or slow cooked to perfection in American barbecue, pork has the...

DOH, DAB Monitoring New World Screwworm Outbreak in Texas and New Mexico

Following recent detections of New World screwworm (NWS) in animals on the U.S. mainland, the Hawai‘i Department of Agriculture and Biosecurity (DAB) and the Hawai‘i Department of Health (DOH) are reassuring residents that the risk to Hawai‘i remains very low and that proactive protective measures are underway.

As of July 3, 2026, federal agencies reported 16 domestically acquired animal cases and no domestically acquired human cases nationally. To date, there have been no detections of NWS in Hawai‘i in animals or people.

"Hawai‘i’s strong import rules, inspections, surveillance and rapid‑response systems is built for exactly...

Japan’s Third-Largest Bento Box Company Switches to US Beef and Pork

Bento boxes are very popular and ingrained into the daily life of consumers in Japan. These single-portion, packaged meals are experiencing significant market growth, serving as convenient, balanced, and portable meals for students, professionals and travelers. As inflation rises and consumer demand for convenience grows, USMEF is working to penetrate nationwide, ready-to-eat food suppliers in Japan with U.S. beef and pork.

Hokka Hokka Tei, the third-largest bento box company in Japan, has begun purchasing U.S. beef short plate for two of its menu items and U.S. center-cut pork loin for three pork menu items...

Import Cargo Expected to Set New Record Ahead of Potential August Tariffs

Import volume at the nation’s major container ports is forecast to hit a new all-time record this month, driven by retailers stocking up ahead of expected tariff increases, according to the Global Port Tracker report released today by the National Retail Federation and Hackett Associates.

“This year’s early peak season is expected to continue through July as retailers and other importers prepare for potentially higher tariffs beginning in August and other trade uncertainties,” NRF Vice President for Supply Chain and Customs Policy Jonathan Gold said, noting continued...

Offal Restrictions Impact May Pork Exports; Beef Export Value Above Year-Ago

Although May exports of U.S. pork were higher year-over-year, volumes were significantly diminished by Mexico’s restrictions on pork offal items, according to data released by USDA and compiled by the U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF). May beef exports were below last year’s volume but edged higher in value.    

Pork exports totaled 245,874 metric tons (mt) in May, up 10% from a year ago, with value up 8% to $701 million. But exports in May 2025 were unusually low due to heightened trade tensions with China, which temporarily pushed China’s tariff rate on U.S. pork as high as 172%. This impasse heavily impacted exports...

McLane Engage 2026 to Feature Global AI Expert Keynote, New Supplier Summit and Product Innovation

McLane Company, Inc. will host McLane Engage, August 25-27 at the Gaylord Texan Resort & Convention Center in Grapevine, Texas.

With the support of title sponsors The Hershey Company and Reynolds American, McLane Engage brings customers and suppliers together for a full-scale trade show experience featuring three days of networking, educational content, new product launches, deals and more.

Keynote speaker Sol Rashidi, recognized as the world’s first Chief AI Officer, a former Amazon executive and one of the Top 100 AI...

RARE Steak Championship to Make New York Debut at Industry City

Brooklyn's Industry City will host the New York debut of the RARE Steak Championship on Thursday, Sept. 10, bringing together more than 25 of the city's steakhouses and restaurants for a head-to-head culinary competition featuring unlimited tastings, cocktails and live entertainment.

Presented by Buckhead Meat & Seafood and produced by DiningOut Media + Events, RARE is a national food and beverage festival that showcases premium proteins, culinary talent and craft cocktails in major US markets. The New York event brings together restaurant...

QDOBA Adds Atlanta and Nashville Development Deals as Franchise Growth Ramps Up

QDOBA Mexican Eats is accelerating franchise-led expansion with two new development deals that will add 50 restaurants in Atlanta and Nashville, plus an acquisition that boosts its Pacific Northwest footprint.

The brand, now the No. 2 player in Mexican fast casual, and its franchise partners operate more than 865 restaurants. QDOBA has set aggressive goals: roughly doubling to about 2,000 units in eight years, opening about 100 restaurants a year, and growing franchised locations to roughly 85% of the system.

"We're thrilled to partner...

FMI Report Finds Food Retailers Doubling Down on Value, Health and Tech Amid Economic Pressure

Food retailers and suppliers are continuing to invest in affordability, health-focused products and technology despite ongoing economic strain, according to The Food Retailing Industry Speaks 2026 report released by The Food Industry Association (FMI).

The report found industry leaders concentrated on five core priorities: managing macroeconomic volatility, meeting consumer demands for value and health, improving the shopping experience, adopting new technologies and building business resilience.

“Consumers are increasingly sensitive to both the cost of food and the nutritional...

ANALYSIS: Australian Beef Trade Matrix - H1 2026 Market Review and H2 2026 Outlook

China's newly minted safeguard quota policy, which came into effect on New Year's Day, completely rewrote the commercial playbook for Australia's beef sector during the first half of 2026.

The response was front-loading on two fronts: systematic, quota-aware placement into China to stay inside the 55% tariff threshold, running in parallel with an accelerated drawdown of available safeguard allowance in Korea.

This dual-market acceleration produced a historic 805,379 metric tons (MT) of exports in H1, representing a 14.7% increase year-on-year (YOY) and...

OpenTable Introduces Gold Tables, Turning Diner Loyalty Into Access at Coveted Restaurants

OpenTable, a global leader in restaurant tech, today announced Gold Tables, a new OpenTable loyalty benefit that gives diners with Gold status access to tables at participating in-demand restaurants while helping restaurants reach highly engaged guests.

Through the recently relaunched OpenTable Regulars loyalty program, diners unlock Gold status after completing six OpenTable reservations within 12 months. At launch, Gold Tables includes more than 500 participating restaurants across more than 50 cities nationwide, spanning major dining destinations including New York City, Chicago, Los Angeles...

The Retail Rundown: The Battle for the Summer Food Dollar Intensifies

With the Fourth of July behind us, the protein industry is entering the "dog days of summer," when seasonal demand typically slows. Holiday movement over the past weekend was reportedly mixed, with retail performance varying by region as weather patterns influenced consumer plans and outdoor activity.

This year, the seasonal slowdown is unfolding against a challenging economic backdrop. Although inflation has moderated, consumers continue to face elevated costs for housing, utilities, and other essentials.

Rather than pulling back on discretionary spending entirely, households are becoming more intentional about where they spend their food dollars, placing greater emphasis on value. That dynamic is especially evident in the restaurant industry...

USCA Urges Strong, Comprehensive Tariffs on Brazilian Beef at USTR Section 301 Hearing

United States Cattlemen’s Association (USCA) appeared today [July 6, 2026] before the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) to testify in support of strong, comprehensive trade action against Brazilian beef under Section 301, following USTR’s determination that Brazil’s acts, policies, and practices are unreasonable and burden U.S. commerce.

Testifying on behalf of USCA, Director of Policy & Public Affairs Jenna Stanton called for additional tariffs on all Brazilian bovine products—including carcasses, cuts, trim, and edible offal—citing systemic illegal deforestation, coerced labor, and corruption in Brazil's...

Freddy's Targets 60 Openings in 2026 as Prototype Expansion Supports Franchise Growth

Freddy's Frozen Custard & Steakburgers is on track to open approximately 60 restaurants in 2026 as the brand approaches the 600-unit milestone.

The company said continued franchisee reinvestment, combined with expanded development options through new endcap and in-line prototypes, is supporting growth across domestic and international markets.

Existing franchisees remain a key driver of expansion, with roughly one-third adding additional territories. Freddy's said the new restaurant formats provide greater real estate flexibility, enabling development in a wider range...

International Dairy Queen Hires Phil Crawford as Chief Technology Officer

International Dairy Queen, Inc. (IDQ) today announced Phil Crawford joined the company as executive vice president and chief technology officer, reporting to the president and CEO. He leads IT and retail technology for the company and its more than 7,800 DQ^® restaurants worldwide.

“Technology plays an increasingly critical role in empowering our business for our employees, franchisees and fans,” said Troy Bader, president and CEO at International Dairy Queen. “Phil’s proven success as a restaurant business and technology leader positions us for continued growth as we...

Beyond Meat® to Introduce Beyond Steak® Filet at Meijer This Month

Beyond Meat, Inc. (NASDAQ: BYND), otherwise known as Beyond The Plant Protein Company™, today announced that Beyond Steak Filet will begin rolling out to Meijer stores this month, expanding its retail presence following recent launches at Wegmans and H-E-B.

Since debuting on the brand's direct-to-consumer site in October 2025, Beyond Steak Filet has quickly become the site's #1 selling product¹, earning enthusiastic consumer reviews for its delicious taste, great texture, and strong nutritional profile. Made with mycelium and heart-healthy² avocado oil...

Survey Finds Summer BBQ Costs Are Changing The Way Americans Host This Season

As summer gatherings get underway, a new survey conducted by The Harris Poll on behalf of affordable grocery app Flashfood found that rising food prices are forcing Americans to rethink how they host backyard BBQs, cookouts, and summer gatherings.

According to the survey, more than half of Americans (53%) are concerned about the cost of hosting summer events this year because of food prices. Meanwhile, an overwhelming majority (85%) expect hosting a BBQ or cookout to be more expensive this summer compared to last year.

The findings...

Walmart and Sam's Club Lower Prices to Help Customers Make the Most out of Summer

This summer, Walmart and Sam's Club are helping customers and members save more with thousands of lower prices through Walmart's signature Rollbacks and Sam's Club offers across stores and clubs nationwide. From backyard barbecues and family vacations to pool days and neighborhood gatherings, the savings are designed to help customers and members make the most of the season while spending less on the products they need, want and love most.

Customers can expect savings across grocery, household essentials, outdoor living, toys and apparel, with lower prices on the everyday essentials and seasonal favorites families rely on most...

PAHO - Joint Declaration Reinforces Commitment to the One Health Approach in the Americas

Every July 6, the international community marks World Zoonoses Day to raise awareness about the risk of disease transmission between animals and humans and to promote measures to prevent zoonotic diseases.

Approximately 60% of known human infectious diseases are zoonotic in origin, while nearly 75% of emerging infectious diseases in humans originate from domestic or wild animals.

In addition, antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is estimated to cause 1.27 million direct deaths each year worldwide and is associated with nearly 5 million deaths annually. Foodborne diseases are...

ANALYSIS: US Elevated Beef Prices Shift Momentum as 2026 Choice Cutout Falls Below 2025

The 2026 Expana Choice cutout fell below its prior-year counterpart for the first time on June 24, ending a premium that had been in place since the start of the year. Elevated wholesale beef prices and a cautious buying environment has limited purchasing interest in 2026 and has many buyers purchasing in a less aggressive manner than what they typically would have the same time in 2025 despite what is typically the peak of the summer grilling...

ANALYSIS: Frozen Pork Inventories Remain Near Decade Lows

USDA's May 2026 Cold Storage report continues to reinforce the narrative of historically tight frozen pork inventories despite the typical seasonal tendency for supplies to build during the spring. Historically, total frozen pork stocks accumulate from late winter through April, the seasonal peak, and generally remain elevated through May and June before drawing down into year-end. Instead, total frozen pork inventories stand at 451.9 million lbs in May 2026, up just 0.3% from April and 0.3% above May 2025, yet approximately...

Burger King Adds Two New Original Chicken Sandwich Variants to US Menu

Burger King is expanding its Original Chicken Sandwich lineup with two limited-time offerings, the Loaded Jalapeño Original Chicken Sandwich and the Club Original Chicken Sandwich, starting July 7 at participating US restaurants.

The move builds on one of the chain’s longest-running menu items. First introduced in 1979, the Original Chicken Sandwich has remained a core product for Burger King, known for its elongated shape, lightly breaded white meat chicken, shredded lettuce and mayonnaise on a toasted...

Mars Petcare Recalls Two Lots of Pedigree Wet Dog Food after Diverted Product Enters Market

Mars Petcare US is voluntarily recalling two lots of PEDIGREE Can High Protein Chopped Chicken & Duck Flavor 13.2oz for dogs after discovering product intended for destruction was apparently fraudulently diverted and sold in the US market, according to a recall notice reposted on the US Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA's) website.

The affected lots, 613C3KKCFC and 613C1KKCFC, may contain metal and plastic foreign material, creating a potential hazard for dogs including choking, lacerations or gastrointestinal blockages, the company said.

FSIS Issues Public Health Alert for A Ready-To-Eat Beef Jerky Product Due to Misbranding 

The US Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) is issuing a public health alert for a beef jerky product due to misbranding and undeclared allergen. The product contains wheat, a known allergen, which is not declared on the product label. A recall was not requested because the product is no longer available for purchase.

The ready-to-eat beef jerky item was produced on various dates between August 7, 2025, and July 1, 2026. The following...

Expana's Weekly Top 10

Last week's top headlines produced by in-house journalists highlighted the policy shifts, supply chain disruptions and demand signals shaping global commodity and food markets. From the US decision not to renew the USMCA and the collapse of a major low-carbon ammonia project in Louisiana, to Ecuador’s rapid rise in cocoa production and a significant cold storage fire in Los Angeles, the latest developments point to continued volatility across trade, agriculture, energy and food supply chains. We also track key weekly themes in retail and foodservice, where summer pricing...

PODCAST - Episode 42: Crops Under Fire, Ft. Murphy Campbell and Andrew Kanyemba

Simon Duke opens with a brief news round-up: USMCA non-renewal in favour of bilateral US trade deals with Canada and Mexico, EU Deforestation Regulation expansion to include coffee and palm oil derivatives, and Fourth of July grilling demand dynamics. The episode's focus, however, is on current grain and oilseed market dynamics.

Murphy Campbell (Grains and Oilseeds Reporter, Expana) covers the USDA's June Acreage Report — wheat planted acres at a 149-year low, corn surprising to the upside despite Iran-driven fertilizer cost spikes

Kroger Names Emilee De Martino Executive Vice President and Chief People Officer

The Kroger Co. (NYSE: KR) today announced Emilee De Martino will serve as its next Executive Vice President and Chief People Officer. De Martino succeeds Tim Massa, who announced he will be retiring September 18. De Martino plans to begin her time at Kroger by engaging with associates in stores, distribution centers, manufacturing facilities and offices across the country.

De Martino joins Kroger from McDonald's Corporation, where she most recently served as Senior Vice President and Chief People Officer for International Operated Markets. In that role, she led...

USDA Announces Partnership with SBA to Shield Producers, Ranchers, and Businesses from Regulation

Today, U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins announced a new Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Small Business Administration (SBA) to combat weaponized regulatory and enforcement actions against America’s producers, ranchers, and small businesses. This partnership advances Pillar 4 of the Farmer and Rancher Freedom Framework by building a government-wide shield against lawfare.

Secretary Rollins was joined by SBA Administrator Kelly Loeffler, Special Envoy for American Landowners John Rich, Director of the Bureau of Land Management Stevan Pearce, Representative Harriet Hageman, Representative Eli Crane, and affected producers and ranchers, along with representatives from leading...

ANALYSIS: Broiler Expansion Holds Firm Through Mid-June as Production Gains Remain Intact

Broiler egg sets and chick placements continue to track at elevated levels, sustaining the industry's ongoing push to expand overall production. On a year-to-date (YTD) basis through the week ending June 15th, 2026, egg sets are up 2.0% year over year (YoY), while cumulative chick placements remain up 2.4% YoY,  largely consistent with the metrics reported earlier in the season. While the egg set YTD gain has edged marginally lower from the 2.2% reading through mid-May, chick placements have shown no...

ANALYSIS: US Veal Carcass Prices Reach New All-Time Highs

The US veal industry remains under significant structural supply pressure. According to the USDA, the available calf supply continues to shrink as the US dairy herd has contracted in recent years, while data from the National Association of Animal Breeders (NAAB) show beef-on-dairy breeding has become increasingly common. Today, roughly 30% of dairy breeders utilize beef genetics, reducing the number of Holstein bull calves available for veal production. At the same time, several processors have exited the veal sector over the past few years in favor of beef...

ANALYSIS: Cuts Gain Ground in US Beef Import Flow

Summer Strategies Take Shape Across Foodservice

As the foodservice industry braces for the annual summer slowdown, operators are turning to menu innovation, value offers, and seasonal promotions to drive traffic and stay aligned with shifting consumer demand. In this roundup, we highlight the latest restaurant moves to capture summer spending, along with key financial updates, expansion plans, and executive changes across the sector.

Explore more from Expana’s biweekly foodservice roundups here. 

Summer Promotions Take Center Stage

Denny’s is introducing a new summer menu, The Clock’s Off Menu, at US restaurants on June 24...

US Declines to Extend USMCA, Putting $149 Billion in Agri-Food Trade on an Uncertain Path

The United States will not renew the US-Mexico-Canada Agreement, according to US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer, amid Wednesday's July 1 joint review deadline. Fox Business subsequently reported that President Trump will instead pursue separate bilateral trade deals with Canada and Mexico lasting up to 10 years. Both Canada and Mexico had pressed for a full 16-year extension. They did not get it.

The outcome was widely expected. Trump has floated withdrawing from the deal entirely, and US officials gave no...

Expana Publication Schedule for the Fourth of July Holiday Period

Expana will be observing the Fourth of July holiday on Friday, July 3, across its Americas offices, which will impact the publication dates of several Expana Benchmark Prices and news.

The European and APAC offices’ publication schedules will be unaffected by this holiday.

The Fourth of July holiday period will affect the following...

Ciscomani Announces $3.74 Million USDA Grant to Strengthen Arizona’s Preparedness Against NWS

Arizona’s ranchers, veterinarians, and rural communities are on the front lines of protecting our livestock industry, and they deserve every tool, every resource, and every advantage we can provide’

Tucson, AZ - Congressman Juan Ciscomani today [July 1, 2026] announced that the University of Arizona has been awarded a $3.74 million Grand Challenge Grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to strengthen Arizona’s preparedness for New World screwworm, a parasitic pest that poses a serious threat to livestock, wildlife, companion animals...

Meat Institute Supports Securing Agriculture’s Workforce Act

The Meat Institute today [June 30, 2026] supported House Agriculture Committee Chairman Glenn “GT” Thompson’s (R-PA) bill, the Securing Agriculture’s Workforce Act, to help address a persistent shortage of workers in US agriculture.

“Chairman Thompson has worked hard to address a chronic shortage of ag labor, one of the top concerns facing the meat and poultry industry,” said Meat Institute President and CEO Julie Anna Potts. “We thank him for his leadership and his important recognition that the meat and poultry processing sector must have access to labor for the benefit of the entire value chain from...

NPPC Statement on USMCA Joint Review

The National Pork Producers Council, which represents the interests of America’s 60,000-plus pork producers, released the following statement in response to the decision not to renew the U.S.-Mexico-Canada agreement in its current state.

“Amidst the many uncertainties that come with pork production, trade has remained a bright spot for U.S. pork producers, whose neighbors to the north and south represent a third of all U.S. pork exports.

“Ensuring USMCA remains intact is vital to continuing the mutually beneficial trading relationships U.S. pork enjoys with both Canada and Mexico...

McDonald’s Appoints Bryan Brown as US Chief Development Officer  

NRF Releases 2026 Top 100 Retailers

The National Retail Federation today released its annual list of the Top 100 Retailers, compiled by Kantar. The 2026 Top 100 Retailers ranks the industry’s largest companies according to 2025 U.S. retail sales. As the largest retailers continue to expand outside of retail revenues, this list focuses only on retail-specific revenues and not overall organizational revenue.

“Despite significant economic challenges over the past year, this year’s Top 100 Retailers list highlights a resilient group of companies,” NRF Chief Economist and Executive Director of Research Mark Mathews said. “They are adapting to meet changing consumer needs and leaning into new strategies and formats that set them apart...

New Primal Announces Nationwide Target Expansion and Snack Mates Line Refresh

New Primal, a pioneer in clean-ingredient meat snacks and maker of the top-selling chicken snack stick across the U.S., is taking over the protein aisle at Target. The brand has announced a major retail expansion, bringing a highly anticipated suite of poultry snacks to Target shoppers across the country. The launch also marks the debut of New Primal's reimagined Snack Mates packaging, unifying its kid-friendly and adult offerings under one cohesive brand identity and reinforcing its commitment to delivering wholesome, protein-packed snacks...

Kroger Announces Agreement to Acquire Giant Eagle

The Kroger Co. (NYSE: KR) and Giant Eagle, Inc. ("Giant Eagle") today announced a definitive agreement under which Kroger will acquire Giant Eagle, a leading family-owned food and pharmacy retailer with approximately $9 billion in annual sales and 197 supermarkets and 11 standalone pharmacies across northern Ohio, western Pennsylvania, West Virginia, Maryland and Indiana. The transaction has been unanimously approved by Kroger's Board of Directors.

With a purchase price of $1.65 billion, comprised of $1.25 billion in cash consideration and the assumption of approximately $400 million in outstanding liabilities, this transaction is consistent with Kroger's disciplined approach to capital allocation...