President Trump Eliminates Disease-Carrying Pests and Restores Enjoyment of The Great Outdoors

ELIMINATING INVASIVE TICKS AND MOSQUITOES: Today, President Donald J. Trump signed an Executive Order to eliminate invasive ticks and mosquitoes in the Federal jurisdiction of Washington, D.C. through safe and effective, non-chemical, and technology-enabled methods, and invest in pioneering approaches to eliminate these pests throughout the country.

* The Order directs the Secretary of the Interior, the Secretary of Agriculture, the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency, and the Administrator of General Services, along with the Secretary of Health and Human Services, to develop and implement a campaign across Washington, D.C. to reduce...

NestFresh Reaches Major Humanely Hatched™ Milestone, Sparing 1.2 Million Male Chicks

NestFresh, a leading humane egg producer in the U.S., today announced a major milestone in its Humanely Hatched™ program: 1.2 million chicks have now been successfully hatched using in-ovo sexing technology, helping spare 1.2 million male chicks from being euthanized after birth. The company expects that number to reach 1.5 million by the end of 2026.

The milestone marks a significant step forward in NestFresh's effort to bring in-ovo sexing to commercial scale in the U.S. egg industry. While more egg companies are beginning to announce commitments to in-ovo technology, NestFresh has been actively...

California Cold Chain Laws Set to Add Costs for Industry

California Gov. Gavin Newsom has signed two bills into law that the Global Cold Chain Alliance (GCCA) says will add financial and regulatory burdens to the state’s food and pharmaceutical cold storage industry. Assembly Bill 817 (AB 817) and Senate Bill 716 (SB 716), signed Sept. 30, take effect Jan. 1, 2027. The measures were introduced following a June 17 industrial fire in Los Angeles that affected the Boyle Heights community and surrounding areas.

GCCA opposed both bills, saying they fall short of strengthening emergency preparedness...

USMEF Partners with Importer to Launch US Pork Boston Butt in Chile

Throughout Latin America, USMEF is enhancing market development efforts for the U.S. pork Boston butt. In Colombia, USMEF markets the Boston butt as an “opportunity cut” to the trade. In Mexico, Boston butt is the “U.S. pork cut of the year.”

The Boston butt’s versatility and flavor are suited to a great variety of menu applications and presents new opportunities to get U.S. pork on menus in the region. A recent target market for the Boston butt is Chile, where USMEF promoted it at a product launch event in Santiago. USMEF partnered with Chilean importer Almakila to introduce the Boston butt to its end-user customers...

Meat Institute Issues Statement on Pork and Beef Trade Opportunities with China

Following the announcement that beef and pork were included in the list of goods qualifying for better trade treatment as a result of ongoing negotiations with China, the Meat Institute released the following statement:

“The Meat Institute is appreciative of Ambassador Greer’s ongoing efforts to secure greater access to Chinese markets for US pork and beef,” said Meat Institute President and CEO Julie Anna Potts. “It was great to see the inclusion of beef and pork on the list of non-sensitive goods, which will set the foundation...

New World Screwworm in the US - What We Know

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...

ANALYSIS: Brazil Fully Exhausts 1.106M MT China Beef Safeguard Quota in 272 Days

On September 29, China's General Administration of Customs, as published via the China International Trade Single Window, has confirmed that Brazil has reached 100% of the quantity stipulated under China's Ministry of Commerce (MOFCOM) Announcement No. 87 of 2025, exhausting the full 1.106 million metric ton (MT) annual safeguard allocation.

Under the terms of Announcement No. 87 of 2025, an additional tariff of 55% is imposed on top of the existing...

ANALYSIS: Japan's August 2026 Beef Imports Slide as Inventory Pressure Persists

Japan's beef imports totaled 38,686 MT in August 2026, down 10.9% month-on-month (MOM), or 4,755 MT, and 10.5% year-on-year (YOY), or 4,536 MT, according to Trade Statistics of Japan data.

The August result extended the slowdown in Japan's beef imports, with YOY volumes falling in three of the four months from May through August. The contraction also deepened from July, when imports were down 7.5% YOY.

Year-to-date (YTD) imports through August reached 329,588 MT, up...

ANALYSIS: Grinding Substitution Fades as Peeled Knuckles Trade at a Premium to Fresh 90s Trim 

The peeled knuckles market runs close to that of the 90s trim market due to the ability to grind this cut into 90% lean material. During periods when 90s trim is at a premium to peeled knuckles, some market participants opt to shift peeled knuckles into grinding material. So far this year, the weekly average peeled knuckles value has only crossed below the 90s price once, but it remained below for roughly a month. Looking to 2025, peeled knuckles dipped below only twice, once for...

ANALYSIS: Quotas, Bans, and Tariffs - The New Rules Reshaping Global Beef Trade

Global beef trade flows are undergoing significant changes as import policies evolve across the EU, China and the US, according to industry reports.

China, the world’s largest beef importer, has introduced new country-specific beef quotas. Imports outside these quotas will be subject to a 55% tariff, while quota allowances are expected to increase gradually each year. The policy is likely to have a material impact on exporters and could further reshape global beef trade flows as suppliers adjust to changing market access and tariff conditions...

Value, Convenience Drive Restaurant Choice as Consumers Pull Back on Spending

Restaurant operators may be seeing modest improvement in consumer spending, but diners remain highly price-conscious and increasingly selective about where and how they spend. A new report from Popmenu found U.S. consumers are spending an average of $100 per week on restaurants, up from earlier in 2026 but still $15 below June 2025 levels.

The report underscores a key challenge for operators: consumers still want to dine out, but they are actively looking for ways to spend less. According to Popmenu...

Common Cents Act Clears Congress, Giving Restaurants a Federal Cash-Rounding Framework

The penny’s days as a working part of the US cash register are nearing an end, and restaurants are getting a clearer set of rules for dealing with the change.

The Senate passed H.R. 10167, the “Common Cents Act,” on Sept. 28, sending the legislation to President Trump for his signature. The bill would formally end production of pennies for general circulation and establish a federal framework for rounding cash transactions when exact change is unavailable.

For restaurant operators, the legislation provides some...

The Retail Rundown: Pork Finds Its October Opportunity

October is National Pork Month, and this year’s celebration comes at an important time for the pork industry. While the fall buying period provides a marketing hook, tighter hog supplies may be an even more important factor shaping the market.

A smaller hog inventory, steady-to-lower slaughter levels, and attractive prices on select cuts give retailers several reasons to feature pork.

The latest USDA Hogs and Pigs report puts the September 1 US hog and pig inventory at 74.3 million head, about 2% below a year earlier. Market hog inventories were also down about 2%, while the breeding herd was smaller. 

The industry enters the fall with a smaller supply base and limited signs of near-term expansion. While pork remains readily...

Expana Exclusive: Supplying 46,000+ Restaurants in Complex Context - McDonald's Supply Chain Leader

Darcy Gilbert, Vice President of Global Food and Beverage Sourcing at McDonald's, leads a global team accountable for overseeing approximately $30 billion in annual spend across 46,000+ restaurants in 100+ markets, and a global network of supplier partners. At its heart, the team’s job is making sure the food customers love shows up in every restaurant, every day. Yet navigating such a vast system in a fast-changing world requires far more than simply leveraging scale.

In an exclusive interview ahead of her appearance...

Hormel Foods Announces Definitive Agreement To Acquire Brakebush, A Value-Added Chicken Company

Hormel Foods Corporation (NYSE: HRL), a Fortune 500 global branded food company, today announced it has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire Brakebush Brothers, LLC, a leading value-added chicken company, from the Brakebush family.

The purchase price is approximately $1.055 billion, and the transaction is expected to close during the first quarter of Hormel Foods' fiscal 2027, subject to customary closing conditions, including regulatory approval.

The acquisition advances Hormel Foods' strategy of investing in growing protein categories, will meaningfully expand the company's position in value-added chicken and is expected to strengthen its leading Foodservice platform through...

USDA Increases Investment in Regenerative Pilot Program to Lower Farmer Production Costs 

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced increased financial assistance for the Regenerative Pilot Program from $700 million to $1 billion in fiscal year 2027, providing more producers with the opportunity to adopt conservation systems that improve soil health, water quality, and long-term farm resilience. Producers can now apply for assistance with regenerative practices.

Additionally, USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) is making improvements to the program, including using NRCS’s locally led conservation model to allow State Technical Advisory Committees to add conservation practices that reflect local...

Common Cents Act Clears Congress, Delivering Key Victory for Restaurant Operators

Last night, the Senate passed the Common Cents Act, sending the bill to President Trump for his signature. The vote follows months of advocacy by the National Restaurant Association to address concerns about impact the penny phaseout was having on consumers and business owners.

The Association worked closely with both houses of Congress on the bill that establishes a set of rounding principles for when exact change isn't available in a cash transaction and provides a safe harbor from liability for business owners who follow those principles...

Secretary Rollins Congratulates Luke Lindberg on World Food Programme Appointment

Today, U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins congratulated Under Secretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs Luke Lindberg on his appointment as Executive Director of the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) and welcomed President Donald J. Trump’s nomination of Greg Ibach to serve as the next Under Secretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs.

“Luke Lindberg has been a tremendous friend and partner in our mission to deliver for America’s farmers and ranchers. With his help, the Trump Administration had cut the agricultural trade deficit by 51%, helped deliver...

OpenTable's Inaugural US Restaurant Impact Report Reveals Why Restaurants Matter More Than Ever

For more than 28 years, OpenTable has worked alongside restaurants to help them fill tables, connect with diners, and grow their businesses. Today, the global restaurant tech platform which seats 2 billion diners annually is putting restaurants in the spotlight with the release of its first U.S. Restaurant Impact Report: new research examining the vital role restaurants play in local economies, communities, and everyday life, and the role diners play in supporting the dining ecosystem.

With U.S. dining up 11% year-over-year¹ at OpenTable restaurants, that impact is only growing. Full tables can...

Four Weeks In: Assessing the Market Response to the Expanded Beef Tariff-Rate Quota

Four weeks after the September 1 launch of the United States’ temporary 300,000 metric ton (MT) beef tariff-rate quota expansion, market data have so far provided limited evidence of a broad consumer-price response associated with the additional tariff-free import volume.

Below, Expana examines the market’s reaction to date and highlights key watchpoints for the weeks ahead.

Wholesale and Producer Prices Move Modestly Lower

The US boxed beef cutout (Choice, 600/900 total carcass value) has traded in a narrow band since the September 1 effective date, moving from $3.70/lb to $3.66/lb as of September 25...

ANALYSIS: October Seasonality—US Domestic Boneless Beef vs. Imported Beef

Over ten years, the pattern is that October prices the domestic lean market below September without exception, while fat trim recovers within the month from a depressed base, and imported lean does very little at all. October is a weaker month than September for domestic 90s on the measure that matters most for cost, and a far more volatile one for fats. 

Throughout this report the four series are referred to by name: fresh 90s and fresh 50s for the two US domestic chemical lean items, Aust/NZ blend cow 90% and Brazil 90% for the two imported items. Codes appear...

Utz Enters Protein-Forward Snacking with New Pretzel and Cheese Curl Lines

On September 24, leaders at Utz Brands launched a new protein-forward snack lineup, marking the salty snacks manufacturer's first move into the fast-growing, high-protein category. The Hanover, Pennsylvania-based company unveiled Utz Protein Pretzels and Protein Cheese Curls, each delivering 8-10 grams of protein per serving, according to a company release.

Born From Bold Flavor, Popeyes® Announces their Latest Chicken Sandwich Innovation

As a Real Louisiana Kitchen, Popeyes® doesn't just serve bold flavor, it's the authority on it. Popeyes' culinary team is always looking for new ways to bring bold flavors together, and they saw an opportunity to combine some of the menu's most beloved staples in an entirely new way. It's no surprise fans have long found their own ways to combine the brand's signature chicken and biscuits with honey on social media; but now, Popeyes is putting its culinary expertise behind that...

Firehouse Subs® Brings Back Its Fan-Favorite Thanksgiving Turkey Sub

The wait is over. Firehouse Subs®, the firefighter-founded restaurant brand known for its hot, hearty subs, is bringing back the fan-favorite Thanksgiving Turkey Sub to participating restaurants nationwide. After selling out across the country last year, the Thanksgiving feast-inspired sub returns by popular demand and is available now through the end of December, while supplies last, joined by a new seasonal treat: the Pecan Bar.

The Thanksgiving Turkey Sub is piled high with tender carved turkey breast, warm stuffing...

McLane Company Earns Fourth Consecutive Service Provider of the Year Award from 7-Eleven Franchisees

McLane Company, Inc., one of the largest distributors in America and a leading supply chain partner to retail and restaurant brands, is proud to announce it has been named Service Provider of the Year by the National Coalition of Associations of 7-Eleven Franchisees (NCASEF) for the fourth consecutive year.

Presented at the NCASEF National Trade Show in July, the award recognizes service providers that consistently deliver exceptional support, value and partnership to 7-Eleven franchisees. McLane’s recognition reflects its...

Perkins Restaurant & Bakery Invites Families to Stay and Play with Limited Edition Mahjong Set

Perkins Restaurant & Bakery, the iconic family-dining restaurant known for homestyle meals, all day value, and its iconic bakery, is inviting guests to linger a little longer with the launch of a limited-edition Perkins Mahjong set.

Inspired by the Perkins experience and the traditions that have brought families together around its tables for 60 years, the exclusive set puts a Perkins inspired spin on one of the world’s most beloved tabletop games. Designed for both longtime Mahjong players and those discovering the game...

Demand Signals Report: Unlock CPG, Consumer Behavior Insights

Circana's Demand Signals report provides a comprehensive picture of how shifting consumer behavior impacts the U.S. consumer packaged goods sector. Gain timely, data-backed insights that help support critical business decisions.

Key highlights from this period's report:

Consumer confidence drops on rising energy costs, while higher interest rates may add pressure ahead. Consumer confidence declined again in early September, its second consecutive monthly drop. Although August CPI held steady at 3.4%, gas prices have risen sharply in September and are back near the peaks...

CNBC/NRF Retail Monitor Shows 11th Month of Sales Growth in August

Retail sales rose modestly in August, marking the 11th consecutive month of gains, according to the CNBC/NRF Retail Monitor, powered by Affinity Solutions, released today [September 25, 2026] by the National Retail Federation.

"Retail sales climbed steadily once again in August," NRF President and CEO Matthew Shay said. "Supported by low unemployment and steady wage gains, households remained budget-conscious but took full advantage of back-to-school promotions to stretch their dollars. Retailers stayed committed to affordability, keeping everyday products accessible for American families."

Total retail sales, excluding automobile dealers and gasoline stations, were up 0.22% seasonally...

Expana's Weekly Top 10

This week’s Top 10 stories highlight the global forces shaping food, agriculture, and trade markets, from rising tariff tensions and geopolitical risk to supply chain disruptions, fertilizer supply moves, and shifting protein demand. Together, these developments underscore how policy, weather, logistics, and consumer trends continue to influence market conditions across the food and commodity landscape.

Trade & Policy

10. Trade tensions are back in focus ahead of the Sept. 24 Trump-Xi summit, with a possible new Section 301 tariff on China under discussion and the current trade truce extended by two...

Butterball® Togetherness Report™ Reveals 2026 Thanksgiving Outlook

Butterball, LLC, the company known for the most recognized and loved* turkey brand in the U.S., today announced the findings of the 2026 Butterball Togetherness Report, which explores how hosts and guests plan to shop, cook and celebrate this Thanksgiving.

The annual holiday report reveals that 85% of consumers plan to celebrate Thanksgiving this year, with an anticipated celebration size of 10 people. Hosts are holding on to their traditions, with most saying even higher costs won't change their plans. Consumers are looking forward to spending time with family...

Foodservice Heads Into Fall With Expansion, Stronger Earnings and Seasonal Promotions

Foodservice operators are heading into fall with expansion plans, solid financial performance, and a renewed push to convert everyday visits into repeat occasions. This biweekly roundup highlights the latest earnings and growth updates, industry data shaping consumer behavior, and seasonal promotions designed to drive traffic, loyalty participation, and digital engagement.

Market Expansions and Financial Results

Chipotle is expanding its Apprentice program to deepen its management pipeline as it prepares to open 350 to 370 new restaurants in 2026 and works toward a...

Middle East Market Intelligence Brief: Week Ending September 25, 2026

Saudi, Turkish, and Pakistani military chiefs are set to meet in Saudi Arabia as Riyadh faces renewed Houthi attacks and seeks support under the Mecca Joint Defence Agreement. The talks coincide with US–Iran negotiations in New York over a phased deal linking Iran’s reopening of the Strait of Hormuz to US economic relief.

Both sides are reluctant to give up leverage, while Gulf states push for restored freedom of navigation and an end to escalation. The November 3 US midterms add urgency as disruption to Gulf energy and shipping routes continues...

ANALYSIS: Chicken Thigh Meat Challenge Breast Meat’s Longstanding Reign

Demand for thigh meat has been particularly robust this year, which has resulted in relatively high pricing for thigh meat in relation to jumbo boneless breast meat.

Historically, jumbo boneless breast meat has been the most prominent cut of the chicken, so much so that it fueled significant genetic advancements in boneless breast meat size. In 2012, the Cobb 500 performance guidelines outlined a boneless breast carcass yield of 25.11% for a 7 lb. bird, and a whole thigh yield of...

Restaurant Employees See Industry as a Long-Term Career, National Restaurant Association Finds

Restaurant employees increasingly view the industry as a place to build skills and advance their careers, according to the National Restaurant Association’s new Made in Restaurants: Industry Careers in America report.

Based on surveys of current and former restaurant employees and adults who have never worked in the industry, the report finds that 89% of current restaurant employees see opportunities for career advancement, while 96% are satisfied with their industry work experience.

The findings also point to long-term interest in the...

Darden Posts First-Quarter Sales Growth, Reaffirms Fiscal 2027 Outlook

Darden Restaurants opened fiscal 2027 with higher sales and earnings in the first quarter, helped by positive same-restaurant sales across all of its business segments.

For the quarter ended Aug. 30, 2026, total sales increased 5.1% to $3.2 billion. Blended same-restaurant sales rose 3.1% on a fiscal calendar basis and 3.2% on a comparable calendar basis.

Reported diluted net earnings per share from continuing operations were $2.05, up 4.1% from last year’s adjusted diluted net earnings per share from continuing operations. The company...

UK Weighs Second Wave of Cost-of-Living Tariff Suspensions on Food, Fertilizer, and Kerosene

Amid consumer price pressure from the Middle East conflict, the UK government has moved on two fronts to suspend import tariffs on selected goods. The first package, announced April 30 and implemented June 21, 2026, removed duties on select fruits, fruit juices, pasta, couscous, and tuna which is in effect now, through December 31, 2028, according to a UK government update...

KFC Debuts Open House in McKinney, Bringing the Kentucky Fried Comeback to Life

Today, KFC announced that Open House, a new restaurant bringing the Kentucky Fried Comeback to life in one place, will open September 26 at 8751 El Dorado Parkway in McKinney, Texas. Open House brings KFC's four customer touchpoints, Product, Promotion, Place and Price, together all at once, building on the food and hospitality that made KFC iconic while introducing bold new flavors, new dayparts and new ways for guests to experience the House of Fried Chicken. Inspired by the Colonel's belief that...

7-Eleven, Inc. Restaurants Make Mealtime Easier with New Value Menus

7-Eleven, Inc. is amping up value at Laredo Taco Company®, Raise the Roost® and Speedy Cafe® restaurants with new value menus perfect for busy mornings, lunch breaks and easy dinners. With fan-favorite options served up at a great price, the latest lineup makes mealtime easier than ever.

Savory tacos, crispy chicken and hot breakfast sandwiches bring plenty of comfort-food appeal, with prices that are just as easy to enjoy. The meal deals include...

Starbucks to Close 250 North American Coffeehouses

On September 24, leaders at Starbucks decided to close approximately 250 North America coffeehouses, according to the company news page.

The store closures will account for roughly 1% of its more than 18,000 US and Canada locations, as part of its "Back to Starbucks" turnaround strategy.

QSR Tech Expectations Rise as Nearly All Consumers Weigh Digital Experience

Technology is playing an increasingly important role in where consumers choose to eat, but new research from Canopy suggests quick-service restaurants have little room for error as digital touchpoints become more embedded in the customer experience.

Canopy’s 2026 Restaurant Tech Report: Add Sauce, Hold the Friction, based on a survey of 1,007 US consumers, found that technology now influences dining choices for 94% of respondents, up from 80% in 2025. At the same time, 37% said they have abandoned an order because...

Zachary Nunn - Nunn Leads Bipartisan BEEF Act to Support Iowa Cattlemen, Lower Costs for Families

DES MOINES, IA - Representatives Zach Nunn (IA-03) and Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) introduced the Banning External Entry of Foreign Beef (BEEF) Act , bipartisan legislation aimed at rebuilding America's cattle herd, increasing domestic beef production, and lowering grocery costs for families. The bill would also reverse the recent expansion of foreign beef imports and require congressional approval before similar increases can take effect in the future.

"Lowering beef prices for Iowa families and supporting our cattle producers should go hand-in-hand," said Rep. Nunn...

Farmers Renew Call to End Increased Beef Imports

American Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall today called on President Trump to roll back plans to import an additional 300,000 metric tons of beef into the United States. An American Farm Bureau Federation analysis shows increasing imports has had little impact on ground beef prices at the grocery store. Meanwhile, cattle prices have weakened, with ranchers experiencing losses up to $300 to $400 per head.

“America’s farmers and ranchers are renewing their call to the president to reverse course on his plan to import foreign-raised beef. While we appreciate Mr. Trump’s goal of reducing grocery costs for America’s families, increasing beef imports has not brought prices down...

Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza Detected in a  Multi-Species Backyard Flock in Boone County

The Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship and the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) have detected a case of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (H5N1 HPAI) in a multi-species backyard flock in Boone County. This case is Iowa’s seventh detection of H5N1 HPAI in 2026.

About H5N1 HPAI in Birds

H5N1 HPAI is a viral disease that affects both wild and domestic bird populations. H5N1 HPAI can travel in wild birds without those birds appearing sick, but is often fatal to domestic bird populations, including chickens and turkeys...

Maple Leaf Foods to Consolidate US Plant Protein Production to Indianapolis

On September 22, the team at Ontario-based Maple Leaf Foods announced the upcoming closure at plant protein manufacturing sites in Seattle, Washington and Turners Falls, Massachusetts, according to a press release.

So, the move will consolidate all US production into a single "Centre of Excellence" at the company’s Indianapolis, Indiana plant. The transition will occur in phases over 12 to 18 months, with completion targeted for Q4 2027; both legacy sites will continue operating throughout the transfer to maintain customer service continuity.

The Retail Rundown: Fall Meat Trends Take Shape

Fall is officially here, and the meat case is beginning to reflect the seasonal shift from grilling to roasting and slow cooking. USDA’s latest national feature data show retailers adjusting the mix, with beef roasts gaining attention while chicken and pork continue to provide plenty of promotional activity.

On the beef side, the national feature rate slipped to 84.9% for the week ending Sept. 24, down from 89.0% the previous week. Ground beef activity has been easing as grilling season winds down, while roast and round cuts are gaining ground...

New Competere Report Calls for a Shift Beyond Ultra-Processed Food Definitions

As governments and health authorities intensify efforts to define ultra-processed foods (UPFs), a new Competere policy guide argues that policymakers may be asking the wrong question: rather than seeking the perfect definition, prevention should move beyond classification itself.

The paper proposes a different policy path: replace the search for a universal UPF definition with dynamic decision support that combines product characteristics, quantity, frequency, individual needs, and lifestyle using emerging digital and AI-enabled tools.

Ultra-Processed Foods — Beyond Oversimplification: From Classification to Smarter Prevention, authored by Competere Chair Pietro Paganini, is designed as a practical tool for...

ANALYSIS: Mexican Beef Exports to US Exhibited Mixed Movement in August

US imports of Mexican beef showed mixed movement in August, with stronger shipments of fresh cuts contrasting with lower volumes of boneless trimmings. Fresh beef cuts remained the main source of strength, with weekly volumes averaging about 3,782 metric tons, 16.8% above the same period in 2025 and continuing to run consistently above last year’s levels. The suspension of live cattle exports contributed to increased domestic slaughter and broader beef availability in Mexico, increasing the importance of the US market as an outlet for that additional supply. That movement continued even under a less favorable exchange-rate environment for Mexican exporters, while some US buyers extended coverage beyond immediate requirements and established positions for the...

ANALYSIS: Tom Turkey Market in a Standstill as Limited Supply Clashes With Buyer Caution

The value of frozen 16 lb. toms continues to be well established at a record high of $1.92/lb. With more processors focusing on the production of heavy toms for cut up and deboning rather than allocating birds toward whole bird production, few supplies are currently available on the open market.

Pricing reached a previous record high of $1.85/lb. in 2022 before declining throughout much of 2023 and 2024 and reaching a low of $0.97/lb. in 2025. Values subsequently rebounded significantly throughout 2025. The market then experienced a seasonal decline at the beginning of this year before exceeding the previous record high in early June. Since then, offerings have become...

ANALYSIS: New Zealand’s August 2026 Beef Exports Ease as Tight Supply Checks China Growth

New Zealand's beef exports fell 17.4% month-on-month (MOM) to 33,319 MT in August 2026, a seasonal retreat consistent with the off-peak production window, according to the latest Stats NZ data.

The 12.6% year-on-year (YOY) gain lifted eight-month cumulative exports to 355,763 MT, up 7.6% YOY, accelerating from July's 7.1% pace.

United States (US)-bound tonnage remained the largest component of New Zealand's beef exports at 11,642 MT, down 25.7% MOM (-4,026 MT). Volumes nevertheless rose 18.4%...

ANALYSIS: US Pork Belly Prices Near Record Lows on Ample Supply and Slower Demand

Pork belly prices have fallen to levels rarely seen for this time of year. Prices for 15/17-pound derind bellies dropped to $1.005/lb for the week ended September 21, just above the September record low of $1.00/lb, established during the week of September 5, 2016. Bellies have lost roughly 47% of their value over the past month after reaching the mid-$1.80s in late August.

USDA Cold Storage data helps explain some of the pressure. Although frozen belly stocks were below year-ago levels during...

Star Meat Delivery Inc. Recalls Raw Pork, Beef, and Goat Products Without the Benefit of Inspection 

Star Meat Delivery Inc., located in Lucama, N.C., is recalling approximately 167,639 pounds of raw pork, beef, and goat products that were produced without the benefit of federal inspection, bearing labels with a false USDA mark of inspection, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today [September 22, 2026]. As more information becomes available, FSIS may update the product list and labels with additional items. 

Any product bearing the false establishment number “EST. 1363” should be considered misbranded and...

ALDI Invests in Even Lower Prices this Fall, Offering US Shoppers $86 Million in Savings

Starting today, ALDI is helping shoppers stretch their grocery budgets even further this fall, delivering an estimated $86 million in savings through additional price investments on the season's fresh favorites.¹ With the addition of the lower prices, nearly one-third of the everyday in-store assortment² at ALDI is priced lower than last year.

"At ALDI, value is a year-round promise, not a promotion," said Scott Patton, ALDI Chief Commercial Officer. "Customers trust us to help them make the most of their grocery budget...

Upscale Promotion Elevates US Pork’s Brand Image in Southern Taiwan

Industry efforts to position U.S. pork as a premium product in Taiwan are moving forward through a promotional partnership with importer Pesin and upscale retailer Hei Bonn Gorudohausu. At the retailer’s locations in Kaohsiung, a major city on Taiwan’s southwestern coast, U.S. pork is featured in high-end, Pesin-branded products during an extended promotion through the end of this year. U.S. pork cuts featured and sampled include thin-sliced cuts of loin, collar and belly, shoulder ribs and a picnic steak cut. The high-end branding approach...

McDonald’s Brings Back MONOPOLY with App-Based Gameplay

McDonald’s is bringing back MONOPOLY Oct. 6 with a revamped format designed to drive engagement through its mobile app and loyalty program, while keeping the peel-off game pieces that have been central to the promotion.

For the 2026 edition, customers will peel game pieces from eligible menu packaging and scan them in the McDonald’s app. Each piece can deliver an instant-win food prize, MyMcDonald’s Rewards points, a property piece for the Collect to Win game or a Chance Card game play.

The promotion runs across breakfast, lunch and...

Wingstop Rolls Out Game Day Rewards for Club Wingstop Members

Wingstop is launching a new rewards promotion tied to football season, giving Club Wingstop members a free Watch Party Bundle after three qualifying purchases.

The Game Day Punch Card runs Sept. 24 through Oct. 21 and is available through members’ Club Wingstop accounts. Each member can complete the punch card once. Customers who purchase three Watch Party Bundles as separate orders during the promotional period will receive a fourth bundle free, along with a $50 Ticketmaster Ticket Cash code, while supplies last.

The three qualifying...

Culver's Debuts First-Ever Smoked Cheddar CurderBurger® as Curdtoberfest™ Returns

Culver's is inviting guests to gather round for the return of Curdtoberfest, its annual monthlong celebration honoring Wisconsin's heritage, rich traditions and the gooey, golden cheese that brings people together.

Leading this year's festivities is the debut of the Smoked Cheddar CurderBurger, the brand's first flavored CurderBurger, alongside the return of Jalapeño Cheese Curds, National Cheese Curd Day celebrations and a monthlong Curdtoberfest Sweepstakes experience running from Sept. 28 through Oct. 31.

The Smoked Cheddar CurderBurger features Culver's fresh, never-frozen beef topped...

Research Advances Could Improve rHVT Vaccine Production, Efficiency and Dose Uniformity

A recent study funded by USPOULTRY and the USPOULTRY Foundation has identified a promising approach to improve the production and delivery of recombinant herpesvirus of turkey (rHVT) vaccines, which are widely used to protect poultry against important diseases. The research is part of the Association’s comprehensive research program, which encompasses all phases of poultry and egg production and processing. The research is made possible in part through proceeds from the International Poultry Expo, part of the International Production & Processing Expo.

Project # BRU-19: Improving Efficiency...

NRF Halloween Survey Shows Consumer Spending Expected to Reach $13.5 Billion

Consumer spending on Halloween is expected to reach $13.5 billion this year, according to the National Retail Federation’s annual consumer survey conducted by Prosper Insights & Analytics. The figure maintains the strong spending level of last year’s record $13.1 billion and reflects consumers’ continued enthusiasm for the holiday.

“Consumers continue to make Halloween a spending priority, but they are also approaching the season with affordability in mind,” NRF Vice President of Industry and Consumer Insights Allison Zeller said. “For more than two decades...

USDA Announces Actions Marking New Era of Companion Animal Welfare

Today, Secretary Brooke L. Rollins, U.S. Department of Agriculture, held a Strikeforce roundtable with federal agency partners where she announced actions to usher in a new era of companion animal oversight under the leadership of the Trump Administration.

Partners at the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), the Department of Justice (DOJ), the US Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia, the USDA Office of Inspector General (US OIG) and the DOJ OIG participated in the event.

“In the Trump Administration, animals deserve to be treated...

Carl’s Jr. Invites Burger Fans to “Steal the Crown” With New Promotion

Carl’s Jr. is taking aim at competing burger chains with its latest promotion, “Stealing the Crown,” which offers My Rewards members a free Angus Maximus burger in exchange for proof of a disappointing competitor burger experience.

Through Sept. 25, eligible loyalty members can direct message Carl’s Jr. on Instagram with either a receipt from a competitor purchase dated Jan. 1 through Sept. 7, 2026, or a photo of a discarded crown from... a certain competitor. The first 100 eligible...

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...

Expana's Weekly Top 10

From steel and trade policy to agricultural supply, commodity markets and packaging, this week’s top ten tracks key developments across global food, commodity and industrial markets. The stories highlight shifting trade flows, supply constraints, regulatory changes and emerging market pressures affecting producers, processors, traders and buyers.

Find archived recaps here. 

1. The UK government plans to pursue public acquisition of Speciality Steels UK after a proposed sale fell through, with an estimated £350m needed to pay creditors, acquire assets and fund operations. SSUK, a Liberty Steel/GFG Alliance business...

US Pork Loin Penetrates Japan’s Corporate Cafeteria Sector

U.S. pork industry strategies to develop merchandising opportunities for the pork loin took a step forward in Japan’s institutional sector this summer. Dishes with U.S. pork loin were promoted in cafeterias of 17 major corporations in Japan, already the top export market for the loin.

The promotions followed six months of research, planning and menu development with Shidax Corporation, a major Japanese food service and contract catering provider that operates hundreds of institutional and corporate cafeterias across Japan.

For the promotions, American pork menus were provided to cafeterias of major corporations, including Meiji Yasuda Life Insurance, Nippon Television Network Corporation...

Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service - Texas Releases New World Screwworm Infested Zone

The Texas Animal Health Commission (TAHC) has released a New World screwworm (NWS) infested zone in Texas, with concurrence from USDA's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS). This action comes after State and Federal subject matter experts confirmed that the area met requirements outlined in APHIS' New World Screwworm Response Playbook for zone release.

The zone being released is:

* Infested Zone 10

Releasing infested zones removes NWS-related movement requirements for livestock and pets within certain areas. All interstate movement requirements and international export requirements will...

ICA Announces Building Iowa’s Cattle Future Policy Package

Today [September 17, 2026], the Iowa Cattlemen's Association (ICA) announced a policy package to build Iowa's cattle herd, create opportunities for the next generation of producers, and address consumer prices.

The Building Iowa's Cattle Future policy package includes five state-level priorities designed to help Iowa maximize its role in rebuilding the nation's cattle herd and strengthen the economic and rural vitality of communities across the state.

ICA developed the package through its grassroots policy process, reflecting priorities cattle producers identified during the Association's recent Policy Summit.

"Iowa has the resources, infrastructure...

USDA Welcomes New Mexico into the State Meat and Poultry Inspection Program

Today [September 18, 2026], the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) and the New Mexico State Livestock Board have finalized an agreement to enhance state meat and poultry food safety inspection through joining the State USDA Meat and Poultry Inspection (MPI) program. New Mexico’s participation expands local inspection capacity, enhances food safety oversight, and boosts market access for small and very small meat and poultry processors while maintaining strong national standards.

“Following up on President Trump’s historic executive order, New Mexico is opening up markets for their cattle ranchers! Expanding state inspection partnerships is a way that maintains clear, accountable food safety protections that is...

USDA Invests in America’s Beef and Ag Producers with Funding for Value-Added Agriculture

U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins announced today the awarding of over $26 million to farmers and agricultural producers across the country through the USDA Value Added Producer Grant (VAPG) Program. Entities can use these grant funds to develop value-added agricultural products, conduct market research, and implement business and marketing strategies.

“While the Biden Administration waged economic war against our ranchers and farmers, the Trump Administration is focused on putting our ranchers and farmers first. These grants represent another investment in the Great American Cattle Herd as we fortify the American beef industry...

Import of Poultry Meat and Products from Wright County of State of Minnesota in US Suspended

The Centre for Food Safety (CFS) of the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department announced today (September 21) that in view of a notification from the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) about an outbreak of highly pathogenic H5N1 avian influenza in Wright County of the State of Minnesota in the United States (US), the CFS has instructed the trade to suspend the import of poultry meat and products (including poultry eggs) from the area with immediate effect to protect public health in Hong Kong.

A CFS spokesman said that according to the Census...

US Egg Farmers Continue to Build New Demand in Singapore as Shell Eggs Return to Market

Less than one month after U.S. shell eggs returned to Singapore for the first time in over 20 years, American egg farmers are already turning new market access into lasting demand.

The timing is no accident. International demand for U.S. eggs is surging. U.S. egg exports increased 25% during the first half of 2026, as American Egg Board (AEB), working with the USA Poultry and Egg Export Council (USAPEEC), drove growth for U.S. eggs and egg products across Asia and around the world.

Ten producers representing eight U.S. egg companies...

Pig Farmers from 24 States Press Lawmakers for Prop. 12 Solution in Final Farm Bill

Nearly 150 pork producers from California to New York joined forces in Washington to advocate for their farms and livelihoods as the U.S. Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry passed the Agricultural Act of 2026 out of Committee.

“Our message to Congress is clear: Stop the patchwork nightmare that California Proposition 12 has created for pork producers across the country. Our family farms cannot afford the uncertainty these conflicting state laws is creating,” said National Pork Producers Council President Rob Brenneman, a pork producer...

Farmers Applaud Senate Ag Committee Farm Bill Passage

American Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall commented today [September 16,2026] on the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry vote to advance the farm bill to the full Senate.

“We applaud members of the Senate Agriculture Committee who recognize the critical support the farm bill provides for America’s farmers and ranchers. We appreciate Chairman Boozman’s leadership in moving this legislation forward and we urge lawmakers in the House and Senate to advance a farm bill to President Trump’s desk.

“It’s been almost a decade since Congress last passed...

USDA Organic Certification to Undergo Changes to Root Out Fraud, Simplify Processes for Growers

The US Department of Agriculture (USDA) is advancing a common Organic System Plan (OSP) as part of its broader effort to tighten organic oversight while easing paperwork burdens that have weighed on smaller fruit and vegetable growers, according to multiple sources.

The movement follows USDA’s Strengthening Organic Enforcement (SOE) rule, which took effect March 19, 2024, and expanded certification and traceability requirements across the organic supply chain to curb fraud. The common OSP is meant to create a more uniform baseline for certification...

ANALYSIS: US Lamb Holds Its Breath as Tight Supplies Meet Holiday Buying

August is traditionally the quietest month for US lamb consumption. Summer heat, fewer retail promotions, and the gap between spring holidays and the Q4 buying season keep interest limited. Despite this seasonal slowdown, prices remain at record highs. US carcass lamb EBPs for weight classes 45 to 85 is trading at $6.15/lb, nearly 40% above last year, while the 204 Rack, 8-Rib EBP reached a 52-week high of $15.625/lb. Supplies remain tight, with...

NHL and DoorDash Announce Multiyear Partnership Across Canada and the United States

DoorDash and the National Hockey League (NHL®) today announced a multiyear North American partnership naming DoorDash the Official On-Demand Delivery and Pick Up Partner of the NHL in Canada and the United States. The exclusive deal begins immediately and marks DoorDash's first partnership with the NHL.

Under the agreement, DoorDash gains a broad set of marketing rights and NHL designations, including use of League marks, broadcast-visible branding through Digitally Enhanced Dasherboards during nationally televised games, integration across NHL tentpole...

McDonald’s Raises Dividend 4%, Hits 50 Straight Years of Increases

McDonald’s has increased its quarterly cash dividend by 4%, marking its 50th consecutive year of dividend growth and earning a place among the small group of US public companies known as "Dividend Kings."

The company said its board declared a quarterly cash dividend of $1.93 per share of common stock, up from its prior payout. The dividend will be payable Dec. 15, 2026 to shareholders of record at the close of business on Dec. 1, 2026. On an annualized basis, the new...

NCBA Responds to Stand-Up Program Announcement

Yesterday, Secretary Brooke Rollins announced the creation of U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Stand-Up Program during the National Association of State Departments of Agriculture’s (NASDA) Annual Meeting. Secretary Rollins shared that the program would provide up to $50 million to help states join or expand federal-state meat inspection programs through the Cooperative Interstate Shipping Program (CIS).

Currently, 30 states participate under the Meat and Poultry Inspection Program (MPI) program, but only 11 of the 30 eligible states participate in the CIS program. High regulatory and compliance...

Circana Tells Advertisers to Start Holiday 2026 Planning Earlier

Advertisers should start planning for the 2026 holidays earlier as shoppers increasingly discover products through social platforms, creators and AI tools, according to new guidance from Circana.

In its report, How Advertisers Should Prepare for Holiday 2026, the market research firm recommends that brands and media teams begin holiday activity ahead of traditional peak periods, build social and creator discovery into media plans, optimize product data for AI-assisted shopping and measure results across channels.

The case for an earlier start is reflected in Circana’s 2025...

Nobody Can Define “Ultra-Processed.” Washington Wants to Regulate It Anyway.

No agreed-upon definition. No consistent science. Just a new label – and higher costs at the grocery store.

Can’t Regulate What You Can’t Define

There is no single agreed-upon, science-based definition of “ultra-processed food.” Not among researchers. Not among regulators. “Ultra-processed” is a grab-bag term that throws wildly different foods into one bucket, and you don’t build a federal mandate on a term nobody can pin down.

Regulating a Turkey Sandwich the Same as a Slice of Cake Makes...

Brinker Targets 4-6% Annual Revenue Growth Through FY2029, Ramps to 30 New Chili’s a Year

Earlier today at its headquarters in Dallas, Brinker International hosted its 2026 Investor Day, where the executive team outlined the company’s growth strategy and long-term financial objectives.

Built on strong execution to date and continued momentum, the company is introducing targets through fiscal 2029 that include 4-6% annual revenue growth driven by 2-3% unit growth as it ramps to 30 new restaurant openings per year across major new trade areas. It also expects double-digit annual...

Kroger Unveils Limited-Time Private Selection Pumpkin Harvest Collection for Fall

The Kroger Co. is leaning into pumpkin season with a new limited-time Private Selection Pumpkin Harvest Collection, bringing the seasonal flavor to coffee, beverages, snacks and bakery items across its family of stores.

The collection is designed to give shoppers pumpkin-focused options throughout the day, from morning coffee and afternoon snacking to desserts and other seasonal treats.

"That first crisp morning is the best sign that fall has officially arrived, welcoming in the warm flavors and spices that make this season so...

ANALYSIS: Total US Chicken Exports Mostly Flat in July, 0.8% Below Previous Year

Total exports of US chicken in July rose 4.3% month-over-month (MOM) but slipped 0.8% year-over-year (YOY), compared with a 5-year average MOM decline of 0.4% from June to July. At 554.6 million lbs., volumes ran modestly below the 5-year July average of 565.4 million lbs.

Angola was the standout performer, with exports of 30.4 million lbs. more than doubling YOY (+138.1%) and continuing a run of exceptional growth. MOM growth of 12.9% trailed...

ANALYSIS: Choice 0x1 Boneless Strips Stay Elevated as Buyers Shift Focus Away From Ribs

The loin complex is experiencing an uptick in buying interest as some buyers shy away from ribs and turn to cuts within the loin primal as an economical alternative. One of the items that has been a focus is Choice 0x1 boneless strips.

As both bone-in and boneless rib varieties continue to hold near 2025 price levels, buyers are shifting their attention to the boneless 0x1 strip, contributing to its continued unseasonal strength. If we look at the last week of...

ANALYSIS: Turkey Parts Rally as Hatch Data Signals Higher Production Potential

Since June, turkey egg sets have consistently outpaced those of last year and have neared or even exceeded the 5-year average. This hasn’t consistently been reflected in the poult placements, but placements in August were only 1.5% off the 5-year average and 7.5% higher year-over-year (YOY). This signals a significant change in the current production state of the industry, which trade has reflected.

Throughout much of the summer, pricing for a number of parts and raw materials dipped precipitously...

Canadian Field Pea Market Well Supplied as Pea Protein Demand Rises

As of September 9, the Canadian pulse market is well supplied to meet strong demand for pea protein, according to Canada’s latest stocks data.

Changes in raw material supply take three or four months to affect the further processed pea protein market, shared Expana’s Market Reporter, Andraia Torsiello

Perdue Farms Delivering Protein to Food Banks and Investing in Nonprofit Programs 

With Hunger Action Month underway during a critical time for food banks and nonprofit organizations across the U.S., Perdue Farms is delivering seven truckloads of protein—the equivalent of 181,000 meals—to food banks serving our neighbors and investing in hunger relief initiatives in our communities.

Perdue’s protein donations are helping to meet immediate needs for the following food banks:

• Maryland Food Bank (Baltimore, Md.)
• Second Harvest Food Bank of Metrolina (Charlotte, N.C.)
• Foodbank of Southeastern Virginia and the Eastern Shore (Norfolk, Va.)...

USDA Report Shows US Agriculture Faces Higher Tariff Barriers Abroad

As of September 16, persistent challenges for US agriculture were said to be foreign markets which remain more protected than the US market, according to the USDA Economic Research Service report.

The USDA report does not call for specific tariff increases or cuts but lays out how US agriculture compares with foreign competitors under current most favored nation (MFN) tariff structures. The report may be used as a benchmark to show where tariff imbalances may influence export access...

Arby’s Brings Back Steak Nuggets With Push Across Loyalty, Sports and Social

Arby’s is supporting the limited-time return of its Steak Nuggets with a mix of influencer content, a loyalty promotion and football-related activations.

The restaurant chain recently brought back the menu item, which features bite-sized pieces of 100% steak. The return is being supported by activity across social media and sports partnerships, including appearances tied to both college and professional football.

As part of its social media efforts, Arby’s partnered with reality TV star, model and influencer Caleb McDaniel on content...

One-Third of Shoppers Now Use AI to Shop, New Acosta Group Study Finds

Generative AI is rapidly becoming a fixture of the shopper journey across the food and consumer goods landscape, according to a new study from Acosta Group, with 34% of shoppers now using AI tools to shop and nearly half of Gen Z shoppers saying AI has influenced a recent purchase decision.

The findings, released ahead of Groceryshop 2026, arrive as food brands, CPG manufacturers, retailers, and foodservice operators reassess how their commerce strategies must adapt to a shopping landscape increasingly shaped by AI-driven product discovery...

USDA Border Reopening Drives Deferred Feeder Cattle to Limit Losses 

Chicago Mercantile Exchange feeder cattle futures mostly settled at the daily trading limit on Monday after the US Department of Agriculture announced it would resume Mexican cattle imports.

Live cattle futures also posted steep losses, sending the deferred contracts to multi-month lows on expectations that the border reopening could eventually ease feeder cattle shortages.

The USDA said the reopening will occur in phases, with the Douglas, Arizona, port of entry becoming the first to accept cattle, followed later by two ports in New Mexico. The move marks the first...