September 4, 2026 

DOJ Expands Beef Price Investigation to Major Retailers

The U.S. Department of Justice is expanding its investigation into record-high beef prices, widening its review to include eight major grocery chains, according to Meatingplace. The retailers involved are Kroger, Walmart, Publix, Albertsons, Aldi, Ahold Delhaize, Costco, and Amazon. The move follows an antitrust probe launched earlier this year into the nation’s largest meatpackers. According to Fox Business, DOJ letters sent to the companies seek information on beef pricing strategies, profit margins, operating costs, and purchasing arrangements dating back to 2020. Beef costs have climbed sharply over the past year. Data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics show beef and veal prices increased 9.4% in the 12 months ending in July, with ground beef up 9%, steaks up 9.6%, and roasts up 13.5%, all exceeding the overall inflation rate of 3.4%. Newsweek reports beef prices could remain elevated through 2027 as drought, higher production costs, herd liquidation, and supply challenges continue. Analysts also point to strong consumer demand and the U.S. cattle herd falling to its lowest level in 75 years, factors expected to keep supplies tight and prices high for the foreseeable future.

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AAMP Calls for Federal Support to Strengthen Small Meat-Processing Infrastructure

The American Association of Meat Processors is backing efforts by the Trump administration to strengthen domestic meat processing but says reducing regulations alone will not be enough to expand capacity and improve competition in the industry. In a statement, the organization said America needs a stronger network of independent and regional meat processors to support livestock producers and consumers. While AAMP supports efforts to remove unnecessary regulatory barriers, it also emphasized the importance of maintaining science-based food safety and inspection standards that help ensure consumer confidence in U.S. meat products. AAMP Executive Director Chris Young said small and medium-sized processors need greater access to capital, workforce development programs and market incentives to grow their businesses. Among the group’s recommendations are expanded financing options, tax incentives for facility and equipment investments, workforce training support, reduced overtime inspection costs for smaller plants and assistance with regulatory compliance expenses. The organization also urged policymakers to create incentives for livestock producers to use independent processors, helping build stronger regional processing networks.

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Wheat Quality Remains Strong Across Major Classes

The 2026 wheat harvest continues to make progress, with hard red winter wheat harvest now complete and soft white wheat harvest nearing the finish line, according to the latest U.S. Wheat Associates Weekly Harvest Report. Hard red winter wheat quality remained steady, and protein levels were slightly above last year. Milling and baking tests showed strong dough performance and loaf volumes exceeding industry targets. Soft white wheat producers are reporting average to above-average yields, though protein levels are generally lower than a year ago. Officials say the crop contains enough sound wheat to meet marketing and blending needs. The hard red spring harvest is approaching 80% completion and remains ahead of the typical pace. Yields are generally favorable, with protein levels above the five-year average. While drought stress has reduced test weights in some regions, overall quality remains strong. Meanwhile, northern durum harvest is advancing steadily. Early reports show variable yields and quality, reflecting differences in moisture conditions and planting dates. Overall, wheat quality across major classes remains favorable as harvest wraps up across much of the country.

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Survey Shows Continued Growth in Cover Crop Use

The 2026 National Cover Crop Report indicates growing interest in cover crops among farmers. The survey found cover crop users planted an average of nearly 398 acres in 2026 and expect to exceed 400 acres next year. Nearly half of respondents reported more than 10 years of experience using cover crops. The survey, conducted by the Conservation Technology Information Center, USDA’s Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education program, and the American Seed Trade Association, included responses from 657 farmers across 46 states and Puerto Rico. Researchers noted that cover crop use is often flexible rather than continuous, with many farmers adjusting acreage based on economics, weather, labor availability, and crop rotations. More than 73% of farmers who have never used cover crops said they would consider trying them. The report also found incentive programs can encourage adoption. Among farmers who received payments for cover crop use in 2025, more than 80% said they would likely continue the practice. Respondents said additional benefits include average yield increases of 3.5 bushels per acre for corn and 1.4 bushels per acre for soybeans, improved weed control, and livestock-grazing opportunities.

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Contest Seeks Innovative Uses for American Wool

The American Sheep Industry Association and the ASI Wool Council have launched the 2026 Reimagine Wool Digital Poster Contest, inviting creative thinkers, students, designers, and industry professionals to develop new ideas for expanding the use of American wool. The nationwide competition aims to address a long-standing challenge: millions of pounds of U.S. wool, particularly coarser wool, are often undervalued or discarded. The contest seeks concepts for new products, alternative processing methods, and other market-driven uses that could increase demand and value for natural fiber. Entries must be submitted by Nov. 15 and should clearly communicate an original, actionable idea through a digital poster designed for print display. Participants are not required to create a finished product. The top 10 entries will be featured at the American Sheep Industry Convention in January in Charleston, South Carolina. Cash prizes include $1,000 for the Academic Division winner, $500 for the Open Division winner, and $500 for the People’s Choice winner.

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Think of Food Safety Ahead of Labor Day

As families and friends prepare Labor Day weekend cookouts, picnics, and tailgating events, food safety experts are reminding consumers to take simple precautions to help prevent foodborne illness. Key recommendations from the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development include keeping cold foods below 40 degrees Fahrenheit and ensuring hot foods remain properly heated during transportation and serving. Store raw meat and poultry separately from ready-to-eat items to reduce the risk of cross-contamination. During outdoor gatherings, perishable foods should not sit out for more than two hours, or more than one hour when temperatures exceed 90 degrees. Cook meats, poultry, and other proteins to safe internal temperatures and check with a food thermometer to ensure they are fully cooked. Wash hands before handling food and use clean utensils and serving dishes. After the event, refrigerate leftovers promptly in shallow containers to speed cooling. Eat or freeze those leftovers within four days.

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