ANALYSIS: Historically Heavy Chicken, Historically Strong Demand

Average live weights in the US broiler industry remained at historically high levels for much of 2025, yet the market response diverged meaningfully from prior high-weight cycles. Weekly USDA federally inspected young chicken weights spent most of the year above the five-year average near 6.4 pounds, with extended stretches from late spring through early fall pressing toward the upper end of the historical range. In a more typical environment, that level of tonnage would have created sustained downward pricing pressure. Instead, the market largely absorbed the additional production.

ANALYSIS: Brazil's December Beef Exports Fell 4.2% MOM, 2025 Total Volume Up 21.4% to 3.09m MT

According to the latest data from Brazil’s Ministry of Development, Industry, Trade, and Services, beef exports reached 304,977 mt in December 2025, declining 4.2% from November. Despite the monthly pullback, volumes were 50.6% higher than last year. On a cumulative basis, exports totaled 3,090,469 mt in 2025, representing a 21.4% growth compared to 2024.

China remained Brazil’s largest destination by far, even though December volumes eased 15.3% month-over-month (MOM) to...

ANALYSIS: Gap Between US Imported Beef 90s and Fresh Domestic 90s Shrink YOY in 2025

In 2025, the average price premium of US fresh 90s over imported 90s averaged $0.45/lb for Australia/New Zealand, $0.53/lb for Uruguay/Argentina, and $0.54/lb for Brazil. Across all major exporting origins, the US domestic and import price spread narrowed by approximately $0.10/lb relative to 2024.

This compression occurred despite a continuation of US domestic lean beef supply constraints. Domestic cow slaughter remained limited in 2025, supporting higher prices for...

ANALYSIS: US Egg Prices Drop to Five-Year Low Amid Muted Demand, Mounting Inventories

The US shell egg market is facing one of the most sustained periods of pressure seen in recent history, driven by a rare convergence of weak demand across all major channels and a steadily expanding supply base. Unlike prior downturns that were more narrowly rooted in seasonal lulls or market corrections, the present environment reflects a more entrenched imbalance that has proven difficult to unwind.

Demand: Soft Across the Board

On the demand side, performance has been...

Subway Launches Resolution-Ready, Protein-Packed Menu to Meet Consumer Demand

Aligned with the latest Dietary Guidelines for Americans 2025–2030, Subway is reinforcing its commitment to protein-forward, value-driven menu innovations. The brand is kicking off the new year with "resolution-ready" offerings designed to meet evolving consumer demand for affordable, better-for-you choices.

Subway’s New Year lineup delivers on what consumers continue to prioritize: "protein power" at an accessible price point.

On Jan 8, Subway introducesd its all-new Protein Pockets, each delivering more than 20g of protein, paired with fresh vegetables...

Lamb Weston Shutters One Plant, Defers to New Production in Argentina; North American Sales Flat

As of January 8, Lamb Weston will close one potato processing facility in Munro to consolidate into its newest facility in Mar del Plata, Argentina, according to a press release from the group that supplies some of the world's largest fast-food chains. While the company realizes most of its profits in North America, officials say other markets like Argentina are growing quickly.

“These actions are part of our broader strategy to improve profitability and enhance operational efficiency across our global manufacturing network..."

Trade Associations Praise Trump Administration’s New Nutritional Guidelines

Following Wednesday’s release of the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, 2025–2030, several trade associations welcomed the updated federal nutrition guidance, which places protein back at the center of the plate.

“Thanks to the bold leadership of President Trump, this edition of the Dietary Guidelines for Americans will reset federal nutrition policy, putting our families and children first as we move toward a healthier nation,” US Department of Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins said.

“We are realigning our food system to support American farmers, ranchers, and companies that grow and produce real food. Farmers and...

ANALYSIS: Turkey Industry Continued to Battle Record Low Production in November

The USDA’s monthly slaughter numbers for November once again set a new seasonal low in terms of the number of turkeys harvested and the volume of ready-to-cook turkey meat produced...

Trump Administration Releases New Dietary Guidelines Centered on 'Real Food'

A sweeping reset of federal nutrition policy aims to put real food at the center of the American diet, with a blunt call to cut back on highly processed foods and added sugars. The Dietary Guidelines for Americans, 2025–2030, released today, marks a significant departure from past recommendations, redefining expectations for how Americans eat and creating new challenges — and opportunities — for farmers, manufacturers, and retailers. Although the guidelines are reviewed every five years, they have been largely stable since 1980...

Kroger Unveils Customer's 2025 Yearly Checkout

The Kroger Co. today shared that customers saved billions through discounts, promotions and everyday savings throughout 2025. With the Yearly Checkout feature, customers can view a personalized summary of their annual savings, shopping habits and grocery preferences.

"In 2025, we offered our customers record savings across the store on the everyday items that matter the most to their families and even more discounts during those special moments throughout the year," said Mary Ellen Adcock, Executive Vice President and Chief Merchant and Marketing Officer. "With everyday low prices...

Checkers & Rally's Joins the Value War with $5 MVP Meal Deal 

The fast-food "value war" continues, with Checkers & Rally’s joining the fray as consumers seek quality meals without breaking the bank.

The brand’s new $5 MVP Meal Deal includes a choice of sandwich, value-sized fries, a small drink, and a classic apple pie for dessert.

Guests can choose from a Mushroom Swiss Burger featuring a seasoned 100% beef patty, the Spicy Chicken Sandwich, or the Cheese Double made with a quarter pound of seasoned beef and melted cheese.

Cal-Maine Foods Reports Mixed Quarterly Results Amid Shifting Egg Market Dynamics

Company updates and financial results are circulating in headlines as many introduce a fresh quarter.

Cal-Maine checked in with its latest report showing a mix in its performance for the period fueled by 2025's supply-demand imbalances and historic prices.

"Despite the impact of eggs prices, we believe our performance in the second quarter and first half of the fiscal year demonstrates strength and momentum" said Sherman Miller, president and chief executive officer of Cal-Maine Foods. He continued, " We expect the... 

Albertsons Delivers Strong Q3 Results Amid Shutdown Challenges

Albertsons released financial results for its third quarter on Wednesday, reflecting improvements in key metrics while noting impacts from the temporary US government shutdown and delayed SNAP funding.

CEO Susan Morris described the company’s performance as “solid,” saying, "Our investments in technology and AI are fundamentally reshaping how we operate and serve our customers, driving smarter decisions, greater efficiency, and more personalized experiences." She added, "As we look ahead, I am confident that our modernized technology foundation, relentless focus on productivity, and commitment to innovation will enable...

The Retail Rundown: New Year's Resolutions Sustain Protein Demand 

January ushers in seasonal headwinds that typically temper consumer spending, as post-holiday budget pressures encourage more cautious purchasing behavior.

While retail traffic generally softens after the holidays, protein demand remains resilient, supported by early-year wellness goals. Protein also continues to anchor merchandising strategies across foodservice as operators adjust to shifting consumer habits, including the growing use of GLP-1 weight-loss medications.

Restaurants Turn Up the Heat with Comfort Foods, Value Deals, and Returning Favorites

New year, new menus — restaurants are kicking off the year with fresh spins on classics and brand-new culinary creations.

In Expana’s latest Foodservice Round Up of the Year, "value"was pinned as the buzzword of 2025. Customers want (and need) quality without breaking the bank.

That theme looks set to retain its prominence heading into 2026.

With QSRs taking the lead in what’s been coined the "Value Wars," restaurants like Applebee’s and Chili’s have leaned heavily into “2 for” deals, often pairing an appetizer...

Proposed WOTUS Rule Brings Certainty to Farmers

Farmers need rules that clearly define federal jurisdiction of Waters of the United States (WOTUS). The American Farm Bureau Federation today submitted comments to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Army Corps of Engineers, detailing the impact WOTUS has on farmers and elements that must be included in the new proposed rule to ensure it can withstand future legal challenges.

“Farmers and ranchers support the creation of a legally durable rule that injects clarity into the regulatory process and does not leave landowners guessing what parts of their property are subject to regulation,” wrote John Newton, vice president of public policy and economic analysis...

NCBA Congratulates Justin Benavidez on USDA Chief Economist Appointment

Today, National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) Senior Vice President of Government Affairs Ethan Lane issued a statement on the appointment of Dr. Justin Benavidez to serve as Chief Economist at the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA): 

“U.S. cattle producers depend on economic analysis from USDA to make business decisions every day on their operations. The USDA Chief Economist is crucial to ensuring that quality data reaches farmers and ranchers around the country. Dr. Benavidez has spent his career analyzing the U.S. agricultural economy from his time at Texas A&M University to being the Chief Economist for the House...

Expana Announces CEO Transition as Julie Harris Appointed Chief Executive Officer

Expana, the world’s leading agrifood-focused Price Reporting Agency and market intelligence provider, today announced that Julie Harris has been appointed Chief Executive Officer, effective January 26, 2026. She will succeed Spencer Wicks, who has decided to retire after more than seven years of leadership.

Julie joins Expana with an extensive track record in the global data and analytics sector. Most recently CEO of IWSR, the beverage-alcohol data and insight provider, she led the company through major product expansion, platform modernization

ANALYSIS: US Imported Beef Prices Increased 22% YOY on Average in 2025

After evaluating year-over-year average prices for commonly traded imported boneless beef items, most offerings rose in a narrow band, roughly 20-23%, from 2024 to 2025. The largest gains were posted by South American 90% and Central American 95%, each up about 23%, with Brazilian 90% and multiple Aus/NZ items clustering just below that level. Overall, the data show a broad-based increase across origins and lean levels rather than isolated spikes in a single product or origin...

NPFDA Welcome Treasurer and Six New Board Members

The National Protein and Food Distributors Association (NPFDA) announced recent changes to its Board of Directors, including the appointment of Scott Robbert, Vice President of Logistics at EJ Poultry, as Treasurer.

Robbert will join the 2026 NPFDA Officers:

• Chair: Greg Morgan, Vice President of National Accounts, Quirch Foods
• Vice Chair: Barry Moose, Division Manager of Transportation, Koch Foods
• Immediate Past Chair: Chan Windham, Vice President of Sales, House of Raeford Farms

The official induction will take place during the Annual Convention & Protein Suppliers Showcase at the Hyatt...

FMI Reacts to New USDA Guidance on SNAP Waivers

Today, FMI – The Food Industry Association Chief Public Policy Officer Jennifer Hatcher offered the following statement on the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) long-awaited Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) retailer compliance guidance to implement food restriction waivers:

“FMI members remain committed to supporting the health and nutrition goals of all customers — including SNAP participants — and we appreciate the USDA confirmation that each state-issued food restriction waiver will include a 90-day grace period following its implementation date. This transition window is essential to helping retailers identify and raise compliance issues...

A Year of Change, Value, and Growth in Foodservice

As we closed the month of December and ushered out the year 2025, we look back at some of the most memorable moments in foodservice. From corporate controversy to shifting consumer behavior, the year delivered no shortage of headlines.

Controversy erupted when a popular chain restaurant walked back a logo redesign that ultimately spilled into the political arena. "Value" emerged as the buzzword of the year as restaurants competed to give consumers more for their money. Meanwhile, beef prices climbed to historic highs, pushing chicken into the spotlight as diners...

Whole Foods Market’s Top Food Trends to Watch in 2026

Whole Foods Market has released its annual forecast of the top food and beverage trends expected to shape shopping carts, kitchens, and consumer preferences in 2026. Developed by the retailer’s Trends Council, a group of buyers, culinary experts, and industry scouts, the list reflects emerging patterns in health, convenience, sustainability, and food culture.

One notable shift is the resurgence of beef tallow, a traditional cooking fat prized for its rich flavor and high smoke point. Once a staple of classic kitchens, tallow is being rediscovered by consumers interested in...

USDA Announces Commodity Payment Rates for Farmer Bridge Assistance Program

Eligible producers to receive pre-filled program applications and payments in February

Today [December 31, 2025], U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins announced the next phase in the Farmer Bridge Assistance Program (FBA), the eligible commodity per-acre payment rates. As announced earlier this month by President Trump and Secretary Rollins, $12 billion will be paid to American farmers in 2026. Of that amount, $11 billion consists of one-time FBA program payments. This is in response to four years of disastrous Biden administration policies that created record-high input and production costs...

Secretary Rollins Announces New Priorities for Research and Development in 2026

Today, U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins, signed a Secretary’s Memorandum (PDF, 909 KB) that puts forth a focused effort to establish new priorities for future research and development activities funded by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to strengthen national security, protect U.S. agriculture, and support American farmers and consumers.

The American farm economy suffered under failed Biden-Harris Administration policies that drove up inflation, created a weak trade agenda that resulted in no new trade deals for American commodities, and propagated crippling overregulation. Further, misguided policies focused on DEI and environmental justice in agricultural research, extension, and education programs diverted...

China Imposes Additional 55% Tariffs on Imported Beef

China today (December 31) imposed additional 55% tariffs on beef imports from countries ⁠including Brazil, Australia and the US when shipments exceed certain quotas, according to the Ministry of Commerce (MOFCOM).

The tariffs will apply to imported beef, effective January 1, 2026, according to the ministry.

The measures take effect ahead of the investigation’s revised January 26 deadline, marking a sharp shift in the pace of the case, with many of the most affected suppliers caught during the year-end Christmas and New Year closures.

A Chinese importer told Expana today

Navigating the Trump Tariff Turbulence: A Comprehensive Timeline

US President Donald Trump and his administration have paused reciprocal tariffs on most countries.

“Based on the lack of respect that China has shown... I am hereby raising the [tariff] charged to China by the [USA] to 125%, effective immediately,” wrote Trump on Truth Social at 1:18 pm ET. 

It’s not clear if this 125% is in addition to the 20% imposed on Chinese imports to the US. In early March, Trump noted that he would add another 10% tariff on Chinese goods...