Farmland values increase despite income declines

Farmers National Company said its agricultural listings are down 25% compared to recent years, showing strong demand for available farmland.

US wins trade dispute against Mexico over genetically modified corn ban

A dispute panel found the prohibition on biotech corn was not grounded in science and undermined an important economic market for farmers in the United States.

Confection companies may pass higher cocoa costs on to consumers for Valentine’s Day

The price increase comes after cocoa futures doubled in late 2024, putting pressure on food makers already paying more for the commodity.

How a new smart label tracks food’s supply chain journey

Giesecke+Devrient's peel-and-stick label can help companies address product quality and traceability issues by accounting for changes in location, temperature and package tampering.

Post Holdings to buy potato company for undisclosed amount

The purchase of Potato Products of Idaho complements the CPG company’s existing presence in spuds through foodservice and branded items such as Bob Evans sides and Simply Potatoes.

Smithfield sells hogs to supplier HD3 Farms

The move offloads 28,000 pigs to newly established company VisionAg Hog Production, which will operate as an independent producer.

Agtech seedlings: Florida farmers team with startup Ohalo to breed a disease-resistant strawberry

Also in this week's farm technology news: Deere highlights tech investments in U.S. manufacturing, and CNH announces leadership changes.

Ocean carriers plan Panama Canal surcharges

MSC and CMA CGM will implement fees for cargo traveling through the major waterway on certain trade lanes to offset increased costs.

Inside the race to save Florida’s oranges

The state’s citrus industry is expecting one of its lowest production levels on record after recent hurricanes. But promising new science to address a devastating tree disease is giving growers hope.

Food’s guide to shrinking the climate crisis: Q&A with Mark Easter

The researcher at Colorado State University examines the environmental impact of the U.S. food system, one crop at a time.

Farm bill extended in last minute funding deal: What to know

The final agreement is set to provide farmers with $10 billion in one-time economic payments to offset income losses.

The biggest agriculture layoffs in 2024

Rising costs and weak demand forced Deere, Tyson and others to make significant job cuts to better position themselves for the future.

Agtech seedlings: Plenty closes flagship indoor lettuce farm in California

Also in this week's farm technology news: Growers Edge acquires fintech to help lenders better assess climate risks on farms, and Sound Agriculture raises $25 million for sustainable fertilizer solutions.

Will there be another East Coast port strike in January? Experts weigh in.

Industry observers have differing views on the likelihood of a strike, which would add to the logistics hurdles shippers are already facing.

California declares state of emergency over bird flu

The declaration will provide additional funding to support response efforts after 641 dairies had cows that tested positive for the virus.

USDA allocates $165M to protect livestock from New World screwworm

The U.S. paused cattle imports from Mexico as the flesh-eating insect that has ravaged livestock in South America moves north.

US Forest Service to launch national apprenticeship program

The new initiative with Institute for Workplace Skills & Innovation America is intended to address workforce gaps and create career paths for diverse communities.

USDA to strengthen oversight of meat plants after listeria recalls

The Food Safety and Inspection Service said it will prioritize in-depth food safety reviews at ready-to-eat meat and poultry facilities, as well as other steps to protect public health.

Taylor Farms invests in European fruit and vegetable processor

The North American salad giant is collaborating with Hessing after struggling with food recalls in the U.S.

Sausage maker cited by OSHA three years in a row

Dean Sausage Co.'s latest safety and hazard violations at its Alabama meat processing facility led to $103,000 in fines.

Another farm bill extension is inevitable. But can farmers still get economic relief?

House Republicans proposed $10 billion in one-time payments to offset financial losses in the agricultural sector.

Updated Dec. 18, 2024

Dole pushes back at plan for landfill near Hawai’i pineapple plantation

The produce giant said it was worried the proposal could impact farming operations in the state.

Jackfruit rises in popularity as plant-based meat alternative

The hefty, meaty fruit native to South Asia is gaining traction among consumers and CPGs. 

Post Holdings egg business impacted by bird flu as prices rise

Michael Foods lost 4.5 million birds from a third-party facility, adding to a large uptick in cases across U.S. poultry operations over the past few months.

7 ways pesticide regulation changed in 2024

Herbicide bans and new application restrictions aimed at protecting farmworkers and the environment have also made it more difficult for farmers to manage crops.