USDA’s first new plant zone map since 2012 shows warmer temperatures

The latest version of the Plant Hardiness Zone Map is more detailed and draws from more recent data reflecting that half of the country shifted to warmer zones.

Danone’s Horizon Organic suspends use of milk from Texas farm at center of PETA report

The animal rights group released images showing animal suffering and deaths at the operation near Dallas. It urged the USDA to open an investigation.

USDA to update industry on pork line speed trial ahead of looming deadline

The food inspection agency is facing pressure to create a more permanent solution or file an extension.

An AI taste ‘connoisseur’ could be the future of crop breeding

Researchers at the University of Florida are using artificial intelligence to determine which chemical compounds produce the best fruit flavors based on consumer preferences.

Farm bill extension continues prohibition on EBT processing fees for SNAP purchases

The National Grocers Association praised the continued pause on the fees even as it advocates for a permanent end to them.

Devising a just transition for sustainable livestock agriculture

As national leaders and industry stakeholders prepare to convene on climate change at COP28, frameworks to ensure neither farmers nor ranchers are left behind should be top of mind.

Nutrien acquires soybean breeder as demand for biofuels intensifies

The deal will expand the company’s line of row crop products sold throughout the South as burgeoning renewable energy markets take shape.

Perdue drives awareness of antibiotic-free claim with first snack product

Chix Mix is its latest salvo in the messaging war against competitor Tyson, which announced it would remove the label from its poultry products this year.

Biden signs funding package to avert shutdown, extend farm bill

Farm groups say that lawmakers will still need to work quickly as they are "running out of time" to write the long-awaited agriculture spending bill.

CNH Industrial begins job cuts as weak market factors loom

The agricultural machinery company is trimming workforce costs after a “disappointing quarter” affected by low demand for tractors and combines, the CEO said.

Nutrien partners with agtech startup on a more sustainable fertilizer

CoteX and the manufacturing giant will explore market opportunities for a controlled-release nitrogen fertilizer that minimizes environmental impact, yet is suitable for large acreage crops.

Farm bill extension heads to Biden’s desk

The Senate approved a stopgap funding measure that averts a partial government shutdown and funds the USDA through Jan. 19.

Lower turkey costs drive down price of Thanksgiving dinner

The American Farm Bureau Federation said while the average cost declined 4.5% from last year’s record, high supply costs and inflation continue to weigh on food prices.

Schumer calls for USDA investigation into nationwide milk carton shortage

The New York senator is calling for help “to find packaging alternatives” and resolve the issue. Dairies point to Pactiv Evergreen as the source of the supply chain snarl, although no origin point has been positively confirmed.

Agco launches venture fund to expand precision agricultural capabilities

The machinery giant also announced the acquisition of additional software assets, which add to a pending joint venture agreement with tech company Trimble.

The food industry is all in on regenerative agriculture. Can farmers be convinced?

Companies are racing to capitalize on a burgeoning industry focused on reducing emissions in agriculture. But first, they'll have to prove it's profitable to go green.

JBS delays plan for US listing after request for investor vote

The world’s largest meat company agreed to redo paperwork to comply with a shareholder request as it faces market challenges in North America.

Shoppers aren’t changing their Thanksgiving plans, but are seeking more savings

The cost of a holiday feast has come down from last year’s historic high, though prices for festive foods remains above pre-pandemic levels.

Tyson leaving ‘no stone unturned’ in plans to cut costs, improve business

The nation’s largest meat packer reported its third consecutive loss as it trudges through a period of margin compression driven by tighter supplies, lower pricing and soft demand.

Agriculture leaders agree to one-year farm bill extension

Funding for critical agricultural programs would continue until September 2024 under House Speaker Mike Johnson's plan to avert a government shutdown.  

Tight cold storage supply gives food suppliers frostbite

Construction is booming, but it may not be enough to meet rapidly rising demand for warehouse space.

Fertilizer companies optimistic for demand rebound as profit slumps continue

CF Industries, Mosaic and Nutrien improved sales volumes during the third quarter, a bright spot for executives as low prices continue to muck up their earnings.

Koch Foods agrees to end ‘unfair’ exit fees for poultry farmers in DOJ settlement

Penalties often costing tens of thousands of dollars were used to prevent chicken growers from working with competitors, according to the Justice Department. 

Tyson to shutter 2 more processing plants as earnings woes mount

Closures in Columbia, South Carolina, and Jacksonville, Florida, add to the growing number of cost cuts this year in response to unfavorable market conditions.

The fresh produce industry is more volatile than ever. Can tech help?

Improved data and collaboration will be key to bringing fruits and vegetables supply chains into the 21st century.