Coronavirus: Your one-stop blog for feed, meat and dairy industry updates
July 8, 2020
Coronavirus: Frozen food sales boom by £285m
Frozen food sales in the UK have boomed by £285m in the last three months due to the impact of the coronavirus pandemic.
Export success for Essex bacon processor
Essex-based bacon processor Wicks Manor has seen a massive boost to export sales, despite the challenges of the coronavirus pandemic.
July 7, 2020
Coronavirus: New concerns raised over food fraud in global supply chains
Concerns have been raised about the impact of the coronavirus on food fraud across the supply chain.
FAO and Rabobank food sustainability partnership to look at dairy sector in India and Kenya
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) has signed a new partnership agreement with Dutch cooperative bank Rabobank, with the intention of helping targeted rural communities benefit from more inclusive, sustainable food systems.
Coronavirus: 2 Sisters, Rowan Foods and Kepak Merthyr clusters update
Public Health Wales officials have issued an update on the ongoing coronavirus cases at the Welsh factories of 2 Sisters, Rowan Foods and Kepak Merthyr.
July 6, 2020
Maxum Foods global dairy commodity update for July
Maxum Foods Pty Ltd. has issued its global commodity update for the dairy industry for July.
Chobani donating all profits from new PB&J yogurt to Feeding America
US Greek yogurt maker Chobani announced today it is donating all profits from a new limited edition charity flavor to Feeding America, a nationwide network of food banks that provides food to people in need.
Coronavirus: Sainsbury’s ends immediate payment terms for small suppliers
Sainsbury’s is ending its commitment to pay small suppliers immediately.
Soup-To-Nuts Podcast: Food System 6, Huhtamaki team to launch Circular Economy Startup Program
While the ongoing coronavirus pandemic has exposed many vulnerabilities and inequities in the current food system, ranging from supply chain fragility to worker safety, it also is opening minds – and doors – to promising sustainability solutions brought forward by entrepreneurs and early-stage companies.
July 3, 2020
Coronavirus support maintained by food industry
Uk food industry coronavirus initiatives have continued over the past month, with a range of companies offering support to consumers, the NHS and firms in the supply chain.
July 2, 2020
GEA Remote Service helps KMF in India during corona lockdown
During a countrywide lockdown caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, all non-essential operations as well as local movements were suspended in India in the month of April.
The specialty food and beverage market has consistently outpaced the growth rate of conventional grocery for the past decade, says the Specialty Foods Association (SFA), but the COVID-19 pandemic has profoundly altered this growth trend, reports SFA in its annual report.
June 29, 2020
IDF launches third edition of Dairy Sustainability Outlook
The International Dairy Federation (IDF) has launched the 3rd edition of its Dairy Sustainability Outlook series, which provides new case studies to support the dairy sector in delivering on its commitment to sustainable development.
Latin America update: Consumers, coronavirus and currency
The coronavirus pandemic and its impact have taken center stage in Latin America. Governments across the region have adopted vastly different approaches to containing the virus and, as a result, the prevalence of infection varies greatly from country to country.
June 26, 2020
Can coronavirus be transmitted via meat products?
Outbreaks of COVID-19 at abattoirs and meat cutting facilities in Germany over the last few weeks has prompted concerns that the virus can be transmitted via meat products.
A new report claims that ‘appalling’ working, employment and housing conditions in the meat sector are why meat processing plans have become ‘vectors for the spread of COVID-19’.
June 25, 2020
New report recommends transforming food systems under climate change
With the coronavirus crisis intensifying hunger even in wealthy countries, food, agriculture and environment experts from six continents have responded with a roadmap for resetting food systems already being hit hard by climate change.
COVID lockdown sees rise of younger consumers shopping at butcher shops
Shopper behaviour has changed during the COVID-19 lockdown, presenting ‘a unique opportunity for retailers’, according to a report by IGD.
June 24, 2020
Dairy Dialog podcast 88: Nutricia, FAIRR, Mettler Toledo, MVP Dairy
This week, guests on the podcast are Patrick Kamphuis, senior medical affairs director at Nutricia; Teni Ekundare, investor outreach manager, UK & Northern Europe, FAIRR Initiative; Frank Borrmann, market manager SBU Checkweighing, Mettler Toledo; and Ken McCarty, co-owner of MVP Dairy.
June 23, 2020
Rabobank dairy report looks at post-lockdown picture
Rabobank has published its quarterly dairy report, Waiting for the dust to settle.
Number of workers tested for COVID-19 rises at meat processing plant in Germany
The number of workers testing positive for COVID-19 at Tönnies abattoir in Gütersloz, Germany, has ‘reached an existential crisis’, with the owner saying it ‘thought it had done everything right’, to protect against the virus, despite claiming more than 1,000 victims.
June 22, 2020
Connecterra lands funding for industry digitization
Connecterra, an artificial intelligence (AI) company in the dairy sector, has secured €7.8m ($8.75m) in a Series B funding round.
More meat factory coronavirus clusters expected
More meat factory coronavirus outbreaks are “likely” in the wake of the news of three processing plans having clusters of case
June 19, 2020
ASF remains the dominant issue in global animal protein markets
African Swine Fever (ASF) will have more profound and longer lasting impacts on global animal protein markets than Covid-19, argues Rabobank.
June 18, 2020
UK government sets up dairy response fund for English dairy farmers
Since the start of the coronavirus outbreak, the dairy industry has faced challenges of excess milk, falling prices, and reduced demand from the hospitality sector.
Food Union launches e-commerce platform for consumers
Baltic-headquartered Food Union, a global dairy production and distribution group, has launched an e-commerce distribution service in four European countries, delivering ice cream, dairy products, pastry and frozen food directly to customers.
UK’s first virtual cheese awards to be held
British cheesemakers produce more than 700 diverse cheeses, however, due to the coronavirus pandemic, the annual cheese awards have been postponed.
COVID-19: EuroTier postponed to February 2021
International livestock and animal feed trade fair, EuroTier, which was scheduled to take place at the exhibition grounds in Hanover from November 17-20, 2020, will now take place early next year.
June 16, 2020
IFA secures €50m for beef farmers to cover price losses due to COVID-19 and Brexit
IFA (The Irish Farmers’ Association) has secured a €50m package for beef farmers to cover price losses due to COVID-19 and other factors, including Brexit.
How COVID-19 is shaking up consumer trends: Mintel
The market insight firm says the coronavirus pandemic has made vegan, ‘healing’, and shelf-stable foods more appealing to consumers.
June 15, 2020
Pandemic halts Indian dairy growth
Indian-based global analytics company CRISIL says revenue growth of the Indian dairy industry will be flat this fiscal because of weak sales of value-added products (VAP), a problem aggravated by the coronavirus pandemic lockdown.
Opportunities for UK red meat exports Post COVID-19 in Asian marketplace
Coronavirus has significantly impacted global trade, but there are plenty of opportunities for UK red meat exports in the Asian marketplace, says AHDB (Agriculture and Horticulture Development board).
Chinese pig sector not aquaculture to see fishmeal intake boost this year
The fishmeal and fish oil markets have been negatively impacted by restrictions due to Covid-19 and unpredictable weather conditions, reported IFFO’s China Director Maggie Xu, who added that aquafeed output in China is expected to remain steady or slightly muted due to those circumstances.
Scottish dairy sector looking to recovery
As countries emerge from lockdown restrictions, Scotland’s dairy farmers are looking to build stronger supply chains and discuss milk contracts as they recover from the impacts of the coronavirus crisis, says NFU (National Farmers’ Union) Scotland.
Feed additive market trends: Supply side remains robust, all the buzz is about DSM and BASF
Recent weeks have seen healthy developments in feed additives trading, with the street and boardroom talk these days all about DSM and BASF, says Stefan Schmidinger partner at trade platform and data provider, Kemiex.
June 11, 2020
ICMSA says milk prices for farmers must reflect recovery
The chairperson of the Irish Creamery Milk Suppliers Association’s (ICMSA) dairy committee says his association expects the prices to be announced by milk processors in the coming days for milk supplied in May to reflect a “surging recovery.”
Mengniu expecting big drop in profits
In March, China Mengniu Dairy Company Limited, said the group’s sales in February and March 2020 were affected by the coronavirus outbreak.
Dairy companies in high-risk category of FAIRR pandemic report
Global dairy companies are among 44 firms criticized by investors for their inability to prevent the emergence of new zoonotic diseases.
June 10, 2020
Consumers prefer organic, local meat and cage-free poultry
Consumers are turning to ‘Conscious Consumption’ following the COVID-19 pandemic, driving interest in organic, local, cruelty-free products, according to Saage Insights.
June 9, 2020
Arla seeing foodservice demand rising in Denmark
Arla Foods says there are positive signs that Denmark is emerging from the coronavirus crisis.
Judge orders JBS plant suspension over Coronavirus
A Brazilian judge has allegedly suspended activity at a JBS pork plant in Rio Grande do Sul, due to coronavirus, according to Reuters.
June 5, 2020
AMIS sees volatility in feed demand, record maize output, recovery in soybean production
There is a lot of uncertainty around future feed demand, globally, given the profound impact that COVID-19 has had on the global livestock sector, noted the Agricultural Market Information System (AMIS) market monitor.
June 4, 2020
EU compound feed production is expected to decrease this year by between 3% and 6%, warned FEFAC.
Survey shows more than half of UK consumers turning to British cheese
Lockdown due to the coronavirus crisis has had a positive effect on the nation’s cooking habits, according to new figures published by the Stilton Cheese Makers Association (SCMA), which represents the UK’s Stilton producers.
June 3, 2020
Among other topics, coronavirus is discussed in relation to workplace hygiene.
June 2, 2020
Maxum publishes global dairy commodity update for June
Dustin Boughton, procurement director at Maxum Foods in Australia and New Zealand, says dairy markets turned the corner in May with improving demand as COVID-19 lockdowns started to ease in most regions while milk output slowed in the US and EU.
June 1, 2020
NMPF urges participation in new coronavirus assistance program
US farmers can now sign up for the Coronavirus Food Assistance Program (CFAP), the direct payments for producers funded by Congress and implemented by the USDA.
Waitrose helping struggling UK cheese suppliers
UK retailer Waitrose has launched a special “best of British” cheese selection box, to help its smaller British artisan cheese suppliers adversely affected by the coronavirus pandemic.
May 29, 2020
USDA: Polish poultry industry faces unprecedented crisis
The COVID-19 pandemic has pushed the Polish poultry industry to the brink of crisis, according to a USDA report.
May 26, 2020
Organic Dairy Farmers of Australia enters voluntary administration
Organic Dairy Farmers of Australia Limited (ODFA) has entered voluntary administration.
Hard surface disinfection and hand sanitation crucial after lockdown ends
UK based Christeyns Food Hygiene, which manufactures specialist hygiene solutions, is stressing the importance of hard surface hygiene in reducing the risks of future coronavirus contamination and protecting staff.
Capacity building, investment wave forecast for soy protein concentrate sector
Specialty proteins for both human food and feed demand are set to grow in the coming years, with soy protein concentrate (SPC) and pea protein at the forefront of expansion plans, finds new LMC report, Outlook for Global Protein.
Collaboration key to ensuring traceability and responsible best-practice, says Skretting
The topic of sustainability is one that is more important than ever following the COVID-19 pandemic, according to Skretting CEO, Therese Log Bergjord.
May 25, 2020
Expected surge in demand for cold storage solutions
Higher seasonal temperatures and reduced product demand stemming from the coronavirus crisis will result in cold storage spaces exceeding capacity, according to UK temporary power and temperature solutions company, Aggreko.
Post-COVID-19: USDA sees sluggish EU dairy production for 2020
The USDA estimates that 2020 EU dairy production will be stagnant relative to 2019 due to global market volatility and lower demand for dairy products following the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly during the spring and summer months.
May 22, 2020
Coronavirus causes UK beef and lamb export drop in March
Exports of beef and lamb from the UK saw either a drop or remained static in March, caused by the coronavirus pandemic.
May 21, 2020
Hormel Foods saw organic net sales increase 20% for its grocery products (SPAM, SKIPPY, Hormel chili, and Hormel Compleats microwave meals) and registered a 12% rise in net sales for Jennie-O Turkey products offsetting a decline in foodservice sales in Q2 2020 (covering the 13 weeks to April 28).
Dairy groups seek more assistance beyond $16bn agriculture payments plan
The National Milk Producers Federation (NMPF) said current aid levels will be insufficient to meet the needs of the dairy sector in spite of the USDA’s $16bn agriculture payments plan announced this week.
Tetra Pak joins European Alliance for a Green Recovery
Tetra Pak has joined the European Alliance for a Green Recovery, launched by the European Parliament on April 14, with a view to build a better future after the coronavirus pandemic.
Companies joins UN-backed Recover Better campaign
SIG, Royal DSM, and more than 150 other companies have released a joint Recover Better statement, which calls on governments around the world to match their ambition to achieve a zero-carbon economy by aligning coronavirus economic aid and recovery efforts with the latest climate science.
US dairy organizations call for aid to other nations affected by coronavirus
The International Dairy Foods Association (IDFA), the National Milk Producers Federation (NMPF) and the U.S. Dairy Export Council (USDEC) have jointly urged Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue to use all tools at his disposal to “ensure high-quality, nutritious US dairy products are made available to our international neighbors in need.”
May 20, 2020
Dawn Meats resumes production following McDonald’s openings
Irish beef processor Dawn Meats has resumed production at its Carroll’s Cross facility in Co. Waterford in order to supply re-opened McDonald’s sites.
Rise in coronavirus cases in Irish meat industry
Trade body for the Irish meat processing sector Meat Industry Ireland (MII) has expressed disappointment at the large number of confirmed cases of coronavirus among workers.
The past few months has seen a dependence on a few sources of raw materials by feed, food and pharmaceutical producers becoming a visible business risk again, says trade platform and data provider, Kemiex.
May 19, 2020
Events continue to be hit by coronavirus
Two events set for Africa have been postponed due to the coronavirus crisis.
Vinamilk's US dairy factory responds to pandemic
In April, Vinamilk's Driftwood Dairy Company in the US donated nearly 23,000 liters of milk to the Los Angeles Food Bank to support those struggling due to the prolonged effects of the coronavirus epidemic.
Three workers die at Cranswick factory as affected families get support
Cranswick has revealed that three of its staff have lost their lives to COVID-19 and the company is providing full support to their families and other staff directly affected by the coronavirus.
‘Tough times don’t last. Tough people do.’ – dispelling fear during the coronavirus
Head of nutrition at Beef + Lamb New Zealand and chair of the human nutrition and health committee at the International Meat Secretariat Fiona Windle discusses the challenges facing the global meat industry during the coronavirus crisis.
ADM and Hospital de Sagunto, one of the largest medical centers in the Valencia region of Spain have partnered on a clinical trial into the effects of using a food supplement containing live microbial strains to promote gut microbiome balance and help improve health functions related to outcomes for COVID-19 patients in high-risk groups.
May 18, 2020
Stilton cheese suffering through pandemic
Consumers in the UK are being urged to buy Stilton cheese as sales have declined by up to 30% since the start of the coronavirus crisis.
May 15, 2020
How will COVID-19 change the shape of US feed production?
The coronavirus pandemic has changed the landscape for the US animal feed industry, how it is operating today, and how the industry will continue feeding livestock, poultry and pets into the future, says Robert Cooper, IFEEDER executive director.
May 14, 2020
An outbreak of coronavirus in German slaughterhouses has placed the sector’s living and working conditions in the spotlight.
Borden Dairy awarded USDA contract to provide 700m servings of dairy products for families in need
Borden, a US dairy company founded in 1857, has been awarded the U.S. Department of Agriculture's (USDA) largest contract through its new Farmers to Families Food Box Program as part of the Coronavirus Farm Assistance Program (CFAP).
May 13, 2020
Warning on ‘high-risk nature’ of meatpacking after COVID-19 clusters emerge
Fresh warnings have been issued over the ‘high-risk nature’ of meat and poultry operations after news of fresh cases of COVID-19 – including one death - at meat companies in Northern Ireland emerged this week.
May 11, 2020
European milk powder demonstrations with an appeal to the European Commission
The European Milk Board (EMB) coordinated several campaigns last week to promote an EU-wide milk volume reduction scheme and to attack private storage aid measures for butter, milk powder and cheese.
Future EU-UK dairy framework set out by EDA
Something important in the European Union has been overshadowed by the coronavirus crisis: there are only 160 business days remaining before December 31, 2020, when Brexit is due to take place.
In the midst of the coronavirus pandemic, US company Dairy West has launched Curds + Kindness, a program to direct surplus, nutrient-rich dairy foods to those who are hungry and unable to afford groceries throughout Idaho and Utah.
May 7, 2020
Australian sheepmeat exports drop 15%
Australian red meat exports took a hit in April thanks to the coronavirus pandemic.
US pork breaks export records in March
Prior to the spread of coronavirus, US pork exports saw a record month during March, driven by strong demand from China.
May 6, 2020
US meat supply under threat from coronavirus
US meat processing plants hit by the coronavirus could lead to empty shelves, a new report has warned.
2 Sisters confirms workers positive for COVID-19 at Devon poultry factory
2 Sisters has revealed that a “small number” of workers across different departments have tested positive for COVID-19 at its meat factory site Willand in Cullompton, Devon.
Tyson Fresh Meats to resume operations at Waterloo site
The beef and pork subsidiary of Tyson Foods, Tyson Fresh Meats is to resume limited production at its Waterloo facility in Iowa.
Dairy Dialog podcast 81: Synergy Flavours, Bunge Loders Croklaan, Somerdale International
On the podcast this week, we have interviews about ingredients, coronavirus, and legislation on 3-MCPDe.
May 5, 2020
Canadian red meat industry receives coronavirus support
Canadian meat packers and processors have been granted access to federal funding to help prevent the spread of coronavirus.
NMPF hopes for more dairy purchases after $120m announcement
The National Milk Producers Federation (NMPF) said it appreciates Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue and the U.S. Department of Agriculture for including $120m of cheese and butter among $470m in Section 32 food purchases announced yesterday.
Events planned as EMB ramps up opposition to storage aid
The European Milk Board (EMB) says several campaigns are planned for May 7 to protest against what it says are misguided measures by the European Commission.
Maxum issues May global dairy commodity update
Dustin Boughton, director of procurement at Australian and New Zealand dairy ingredients suppliers Maxum Foods, says dairy markets are starting to come off the bottom of a deep trough due to decreased demand for cheese and butterfat from the closure of food service channels in response to COVID-19.
Online kits revamped to help farmers sell direct to public
UK levy organisation Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (AHDB) is offering beef and lamb box kits to farmers looking to sell their meat directly to consumers during the coronavirus pandemic.
May 4, 2020
Spanish pork industry urges long-term focus on HORECA sector
Spanish pork industry trade body Interporc has stressed the importance of the hotel, restaurant and café (HORECA) sector to help recovery once the coronavirus pandemic has passed.
New campaign urges French to support struggling PDO cheesemakers
As cheese sales drop by 60% in France during the coronavirus crisis, CNIEL, the French Dairy Interbranch Organization (Centre National Interprofessionnel de l'Economie Laitière), is urging the nation to help out the cheese industry.
Pandemic sees spike in milk sales but plant-based demand soars
Czarnikow, a global supply chain, pricing and financial services company, said a survey shows the plant-based dairy alternatives industry is estimated to grow from $15.8bn in 2019 to $35.8bn by 2026.
Help of key workers and other programs continues
More dairy companies around the world are contributing to the continued fight against the coronavirus pandemic.
Hormel Foods reopens Illinois production facility after testing all employees for coronavirus
Hormel Foods-owned Rochelle Foods is reopening its 400,000-square-foot plant in Illinois – which produces microwaveable and precooked bacon for foodservice and retail, deli hams, and Hormel Compleats microwaveable meals – after two weeks of temporary closure to control an outbreak of COVID-19 in the local community.
April 30, 2020
COVID-19: VICTAM and Animal Health and Nutrition Asia event pushed back to early 2022
The management teams from the VICTAM Corporation and VIV worldwide have postponed the VICTAM and Animal Health and Nutrition Asia trade show in Bangkok to January 18-20, 2022.
April 29, 2020
Oversupply warning issued by European poultry industry
European poultry meat and eggs sectors have urged the European Commission to manage imports to prevent oversupply caused by the coronavirus.
UK levy boards launch £1.2m marketing campaign for beef
A major £1.2m national consumer campaign encouraging consumers to ‘Make It’ with beef has been launched by Quality Meat Scotland (QMS), Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (AHDB) and Hybu Cig Cymru (HCC).
April 28, 2020
US feed group urges action as meat processing sector’s capacity cut by COVID-19
The NGFA has urged the US Congress and the Trump administration to take action to facilitate the availability of workforce health measures and practices to allow businesses restore operations.
Canadian pork industry appeals for government support
Canadian pork farmers are being pushed to the brink by the coronavirus pandemic and are in need of government support, the industry trade body has warned.
Meat Education Programme sees growth during lockdown
The Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board’s (AHDB) online learning scheme, the Meat Education Programme, has seen a rise in demand during the coronavirus lockdown.
April 27, 2020
EDA supports EU move but EMB slams crisis measures
Wednesday’s announcement by EU Commissioner Janusz Wojciechowski that exceptional measures would finally be opened by the EU Commission to support the dairy sector in Europe have been met with approval by the European Dairy Association (EDA).
Coronavirus impacts online dairy ingredient foodservice sales
Proteus Insight, a UK-based market research company that focuses on dairy in emerging markets, began tracking sales of dairy products across Chinese e-commerce online platforms in 2019.
US plant closures prompt worker safety plea
The extent of the impact of the coronavirus on US meat processing facilities has been highlighted by a workers’ union.
The pandemic imposed restrictions globally are constraining both production and consumption, according to Rabobank’s latest pork quarterly.
April 25, 2020
Smithfield Foods responds to coronavirus allegations
US processor Smithfield Foods has published a detailed response to the recent allegations that it was not protecting its staff during the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.
April 24, 2020
Australian meat exports find new way to destination
International freight service operator DHL Global Forwarding has been appointed to be part of the new air freight network established by the Australian government to facilitate exports during the coronavirus pandemic.
EU scheme to freeze meat will hit prices
Meat prices will suffer if premium cuts are frozen to manage the collapse of foodservice demand under EU Private Storage Aid proposals, according to the Livestock and Meat Commission for Northern Ireland (LMCNI).
April 23, 2020
COVID-19 and the EU’s supply of plant protein
The EU Commission has been urged to lift certain restrictions on protein crp production in Europe to address what the EU farming lobby terms ‘a growing risk’ to supply.
Devro sales growth driven by coronavirus
Collagen producer Devro has reported an increase in sales driven by the ongoing coronavirus situation.
British farmers lash out at retailers over beef support
The National Farmers’ Union (NFU) has hit out at retailers over a perceived lack of support for domestic produce during Great British Beef Week.
ADC calls for additional SBA funding
The American Dairy Coalition (ADC), a farmer-led US lobbying organization, is asking Congress to quickly add significant additional funds to allow the Small Business Administration (SBA) to continue offering the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) and Emergency Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL).
British Cheese Weekender set up to support small cheesemakers during coronavirus crisis
Britain's specialist cheesemakers and retailers have joined forces to urge the public to 'support small cheesemakers' as the coronavirus crisis threatens to wipe out the industry.
April 22, 2020
COVID-19: US corn prices linked to health of clean fuel industry says US governors in funding call
Farm income and market prices for corn and other crop commodities are directly linked to the health of the renewable fuel industry, say the governors of four US states; they are seeking funding for the biofuel sector during the COVID-19 crisis
Private storage aid support announced by European Commission
The European Commission has unveiled a raft of measures designed to support the agri-food sector that is under pressure due to the coronavirus pandemic.
April 21, 2020
COVID-19: FEFAC event put back to autumn
FEFAC’s congress, originally scheduled for June, has been deferred until September 2020.
Tyson Fresh Meats resumes production at Columbus Junction site
US processor Tyson Fresh Meats, the beef and pork subsidiary of Tyson Foods, has resumed limited operations at its pork plant in Columbus Junction, Iowa.
Meat workers’ union urges coronavirus protection
The US United Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW) international union, which represents more than 250,000 meatpacking and food processing workers, has called on the US Department of Agriculture (USDA) to better protect the workforce.
Dairy industry unites to call for immediate action
Appeals for urgent government action to save the UK dairy industry during the coronavirus crisis have been backed by the entire supply chain, including UK farming unions, Royal Association of British Dairy Farmers (RABDF), Dairy UK and the Provision Trade Federation.
Danone 1Q results overshadowed by coronavirus
Danone has issued its first quarter results, which show consolidated sales of €6.24bn ($6.77bn), up +1.7% on a reported basis.
More companies helping with coronavirus fight
FrieslandCampina WAMCO Nigeria PLC has announced it is supporting more than 100,000 Nigerian families with a relief package of dairy products in its commitment to join with government to make a difference in the fight against COVID-19.
April 20, 2020
Dairy groups react to $19bn disaster package
The National Milk Producers Federation expressed appreciation to Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue for including dairy in the US $19bn agriculture disaster assistance package, while noting that more will be needed to stem steep losses in the dairy sector.
Coronavirus impact on US cattle industry tipped to reach $14.6bn
The United States Cattlemen's Association (USCA) has revealed its sobering estimation of the financial impact of coronavirus on the domestic cattle industry.
Brazilian chicken exports rise despite coronavirus situation
Brazilian chicken meat exports grew 2.6% year-on-year in volume terms during March, despite the global impact of coronavirus.
April 17, 2020
Coronavirus: UK businesses get guidance on reformulation and labelling of feed
The UK's Food Standards Agency (FSA) has provided legal clarification on reformulation and feed labelling in response to the coronavirus pandemic. The Agricultural Industries Confederation (AIC) and other UK organizations had requested the guidance.
Coronavirus will boost clean meat trend, says supplier
The cultured meat sector is set to eventually be buoyed by the coronavirus crisis as consumers become more interested in food solutions seen as sustainable and safe, believes the co-founder and managing director of cultured meat supplier Peace of Meat.
April 16, 2020
CLITRAVI urges meat processing support during coronavirus
The trade body representing EU meat processors has called for support and recognition for the work being done by the sector to maintain food supply during the coronavirus pandemic.
COVID-19: Demand for animal protein and feed to contract in Southeast Asia
Rabobank forecasts a downturn in full-year animal protein consumption in Southeast Asia which, consequently, will see reduced demand for grain and oilseeds in feed.
Dairy farmers call for immediate EU-wide implementation of crisis instrument
The European Milk Board (EMB) says that as the demand of milk and milk products has significantly dropped because of the coronavirus crisis, produced milk volumes can no longer be absorbed.
NFU and dairy industry call for action
Following a dairy crisis meeting yesterday, the dairy industry has united behind the need for meaningful action to avoid a national catastrophe in UK dairying.
COVID-19: Likely drop in EU feed demand in H2 2020 due to market disruptions
The EU feed sector has noted significant improvement of the COVID-19 outbreak triggered EU ‘Green Lane’ system over the past week, said FEFAC. However, it is still not business as usual throughout the feed supply chain, other obstacles remain.
More companies step up in coronavirus crisis
More companies and organizations are helping with donations and product in order to help in the face of challenges created by the global covid-19 pandemic.
Smithfield Foods closes two more processing facilities
US processor Smithfield Foods has revealed it will close two more of its pork facilities due to the spread of coronavirus.
Charoen Pokphand Foods introduces staff safety measures
Thai processor Charoen Pokphand Foods has implemented a series of health and safety measures to help prevent the spread of the coronavirus.
April 15, 2020
New Zealand farmers warned of further processing delays
New Zealand producers have been warned that the delays in meat processing due to the coronavirus could be lengthened by as much as a week.
April 14, 2020
Call for insect production to be declared ‘essential’ activity
The COVID-19 pandemic has visible implications for the effective functioning of agriculture and other sectors directly involved in feed and food production activities including on the insect production sector, says IPIFF.
BMPA urges changes to Job Retention Scheme
The British Meat Processors Association (BMPA) has suggested a simple change to current Job Retention Scheme that it believes would save taxpayer money.
Concerns over US meat supply chain following plant closures
A wave of US meat processing plant closures due to coronavirus has sparked concerns among the supply chain with financial losses predicted to be as high as $13.6bn.
Edge Dairy Farmer Cooperative looks for USDA payments for milk disposal
Edge Dairy Farmer Cooperative, one of the largest dairy coops in the US, is urging the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to act to help farmers and people struggling to afford food during the coronavirus crisis.
April 13, 2020
Smithfield Foods pork facility closed ‘until further notice’ due to coronavirus
US processor Smithfield Foods has extended the coronavirus-led closure of its Sioux Falls pork facility in South Dakota ‘until further notice’.
Brazil expands exports in eight markets during March
Brazil has reported a strong March in export terms, increasing presence in eight countries during the month, driven by falling trade barriers due to the coronavirus pandemic.
April 10, 2020
Coronavirus: Huge increase in animal feed demand globally
US farmers are panic buying feed, concerned that they could run out of supplies if feed mills shut due to employees becoming ill, or deliveries are reduced due to truck shortages, according to an article on Bloomberg.
Coronavirus: Perstorp converts production to tackle Swedish national disinfection crisis
Swedish chemical and feed additives supplier, Perstorp, said it is looking to address the disinfectant shortage in Sweden by repurposing some of its production to that end.
April 9, 2020
Coronavirus: NGFA wants action on driver licenses and ‘punitive’ shipping fees
The US National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA), in a letter to US state governors, has tried to press home the need for officials to adopt measures to allow the issuance of new commercial driver’s licenses (CDL) during shutdowns or reduced operations of state motor vehicle offices in response to the coronavirus pandemic.
The AIC, the UK feed and agri-supply industry representatives, says that supply chains in the UK are holding up as business adapts to the new trading landscape triggered by the COVID-19 outbreak.
Coronavirus: UK pig sector could take surplus milk
The current shutdown of the UK food service and hospitality sectors due to restrictions in place over the coronavirus outbreak means there is a lot of surplus milk, which potentially presents an opportunity to some pig producers, said the UK National Pig Association (NPA).
Meat processors' coronavirus response praised by FSA
The meat industry's coronavirus response has won praise from the Food Standards Agency (FSA).
Australian red meat exports remain steady despite coronavirus
Australian red meat exports during March have managed to remain stable in the face of the coronavirus pandemic, driven by demand from the Japanese market.
NMPF and IDFA ask for federal assistance through Milk Crisis Plan
The National Milk Producers Federation (NMPF), the largest organization of US dairy farmers, and the International Dairy Foods Association (IDFA), have submitted a request for assistance – The Milk Crisis Plan – to Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue.
NFU seeks coronavirus crisis meeting to save dairy sector
The survival of many British dairy farming businesses hit by the coronavirus depends on urgent action from the government, the National Farmers’ Union (NFU) said.
April 8, 2020
COVID-19: EU dairy and beef sectors suffering under food service sector closure
The outbreak of COVID-19 and the subsequent measures implemented by EU governments to contain it have resulted in an abrupt closure of most of the continent’s food services, negatively impacting suppliers to these services from across the agricultural sector, says the EU farm lobby.
USDA expands beef market investigation to include coronavirus impact
The US Department of Agriculture's (USDA) decision to broaden the remit of its investigation into beef prices has been welcomed by cattle producers.
New Zealand butchers approved to sell online
The confusion over New Zealand butchers not being allowed to open their shops has taken another twist with the Prime Minister clarifying the situation.
April 7, 2020
Tyson Foods production sites hit by coronavirus pandemic
All of Tyson Foods’ meat and poultry plants are experiencing some impact due to the coronavirus, the company disclosed.
New Zealand red meat is topic of conversation in China
Research by the New Zealand red meat industry has found that Chinese consumers are reacting more positively to beef, lamb and mutton from the country.
Maxum Foods issues April global dairy commodity update
Dustin Boughton, procurement, at Maxum Foods, says dairy markets continue to experience deep impacts from COVID-19 through lockdowns of people in many major countries, disrupting trade and shutting large segments of the food market to consumers.
RABDF seeks UK Government support for scheme to prevent widespread dairy disruption
The Royal Association of British Dairy Farmers (RABDF) is calling on the UK Government to help fund a short-term financial support scheme for dairy farmers whose businesses have been severely affected as a result of coronavirus and to avert a larger crisis in the industry.
April 6, 2020
US dairy farmers dumping milk due to coronavirus situation
The Wisconsin Dairy Alliance says dairy farmers are dumping milk into fields and down drains, retailers are limiting consumers dairy purchases, and farmers are left questioning if the milk they produce will be get picked up or if they will even get paid.
Job losses at Agropur due to coronavirus
Canadian dairy company Agropur has eliminated 60 jobs and temporarily laid off another 200 as the company said its priority is to maintain its dairy manufacturing and distribution operations, which constitute an essential public service.
Emmi responds to coronavirus crisis in Switzerland
The shareholders of last week's ordinary general meeting of Swiss dairy company Emmi AG approved all proposals put forward by the board of directors.
April 3, 2020
Anpario is getting ahead of the COVID-19 curve
Volume demand is buoyant, noted UK headquartered feed additive company, Anpario, last week as its CEO debriefed us on the company’s coronavirus contingency plans.
COVID-19: ADM moves to reduce its exposure to risks in volatile market
Agribusiness giant, ADM, closed a $1.5bn notes offering last week, comprising an $0.5 bn aggregate principal amount of 2.75% notes due in 2025 and an $1bn aggregate principal amount of 3.25% notes due in 2030.
Keeping the faith in our resilient sector
Paul Featherstone, procurement director at surplus food to animal feed processor, SugaRich, says, more than ever, we have to trust in the strength and resilience of the agricultural sector, work together, and make sensible, practical decisions to keep the supply chain intact as much as possible.
ABP hits back at Polish beef accusations
Red meat processor ABP has responded to claims of a lack of support for Irish farmers.
April 2, 2020
EDA ramps up pressure for activating Private Storage Aid
The European Dairy Association (EDA) says it is shocked and concerned that EU Commissioner Janusz Wojciechowski has not yet responded to its letter, and is counting on EU Member States at next Monday’s videoconference of the Special Committee on Agriculture (SCA) to voice the need for both immediate and European action.
April 1, 2020
FEFAC: Feed safety will not be compromised by new EU Commission COVID-19 measures
The EU Commission published measures on March 30 that allows member states to carry out official controls on the agri-food chain - animals, plants food and feed - on a more flexible basis, in order to tackle the specific challenges of the situation due to COVID-19.
Coronavirus outbreak brings uncertainty in crop forecasting
In the US, an increase in planted areas for soybeans and corn are anticipated and wheat acres are set to fall slightly, the USDA reported.
IGC cuts world soybean production forecast, identifies potential commodity logistical challenges
Although import buying of some commodities has accelerated in recent weeks, logistical challenges are being reported as movement constraints and quarantine measures due to the COVID-19 outbreak become widespread, said the International Grains Council (IGC) in a recent report.
Tyson Foods to pay $60m ‘thank you’ bonus to staff
US processor Tyson Foods is pay around $60m in bonuses to its 116,000 domestic frontline staff and truckers for their efforts during the coronavirus situation.
March 31, 2020
Canada seeks to maintain feed, feed crop production during outbreak
The Canadian feed industry is working to take precautions and maintain production while the government looks to provide added support for feed crop and livestock producers and farmers.
JBS USA reduces production at facility over health concerns
Processor JBS USA has temporarily reduced production at its beef facility in Souderton, Pennsylvania following concerns that staff members have become unwell.
US dairy reacts to CARES Act, pushes government to purchase products
With the US as the new epicenter of the coronavirus epidemic, dairy is among the many industries turning to its local, state and federal government for financial help.
March 30, 2020
Cargill, ADM, Sanderson Farms implement coronavirus prevention procedures
The companies have also been highlighting their role in maintaining the feed and food supply chain during the pandemic, and the steps being taken to prevent the COVID-19 coronavirus from entering their facilities.
UK meat businesses adapting to tackle coronavirus situation
Meat businesses in the UK are shifting strategies to meet the increased demand for food as the coronavirus situation intensifies.
Canadian processor shuts doors due to coronavirus
Canadian pork and poultry processor Olymel has had to close its Yamachiche facility in Quebec due to a growing number of coronavirus cases among employees.
Carcase balance issue to come for producers
The British Meat Processors Association (BMPA) has warned that unless retailers reinstate their full range of meat products, there will be an abundance of other cuts leading to falling prices for producers.
TINE responding to coronavirus challenges
Norwegian dairy company TINE said it is experiencing increased demand for some goods and is increasing production in selected categories.
March 27, 2020
ForFarmers talks feed production and logistical efficiency during the coronavirus crisis
In the latest instalment of Feed Matters, FeedNavigator’s podcast series, we talk to Steven Read, chief operating officer, ForFarmers UK, to hear how the company is navigating a trading landscape utterly changed by the outbreak of COVID-19 globally.
US: Coronavirus prompts demands for changes to feed, grain transport rules
The US National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA) is seeking clarity and flexibility in federal transportation regulations for feed, feed ingredient, grain and agricultural products to support producers during the COVID-19 outbreak.
March 26, 2020
Coronavirus outbreak could hurt Canadian beef, pork exports
COVID-19 influence on logistics is expected to hinder Canadian exports of beef and pork, even as low feed prices support increased numbers of cattle on feed.
US Congress passes $2 trillion stimulus package, with $9.5bn for agriculture
After several long days of negotiations in the Senate, an emergency relief bill has passed to help Americans impacted by coronavirus. It creates a $9.5bn COVID-19 agricultural disaster fund.
Dairy donates time, money and food to the coronavirus pandemic
The coronavirus is upending businesses and economies around the world, and the dairy sector isn't immune. While some aspects of the industry need stability and assistance, others are able to share their wealth and give back.
Keytone ups production in response to coronavirus outbreak
Keytone Dairy Corporation Limited said its newly-built second manufacturing plant in New Zealand is now operating, having completed its first commercial production run.
EDA continues to press EU on coronavirus measures
Prior to a videoconference meeting of European agriculture ministers, the European Dairy Association (EDA) issued an update to its COVID-19 dairy situation document.
Nestlé steps up global response to coronavirus pandemic
Nestlé said it is assuring customers and consumers that it will continue to produce and deliver products to meet global demand during the COVID-19 crisis.
March 25, 2020
Coronavirus outbreak delays aqua feed contest kick-off
Registration for the Future of Fish Feed’s carnivorous fish feed sales competition is being extended to allow for challenges stemming from the ongoing, global COVID-19 outbreak.
Coronavirus fears prompt meat factory walkouts
Meat factory workers at Moy Park’s Portadown plant and ABP's Lurgan facility in Northern Ireland walked out over concerns about social distancing yesterday (25 March), trade union Unite has said.
March 24, 2020
LDC: ‘No significant impact so far from the coronavirus crisis’
Agri-commodity business group, Louis Dreyfus Company (LDC), said the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak, to date, had not significantly affected the Group’s operations and performance.
Coronavirus: EU feed sector hails opening of green lanes for cross-border deliveries
EU feed industry representatives, FEFAC, expressed "great relief" over the EU executive's newly announced measures regarding the opening of green lanes for cross-border delivery of goods.
Australian red meat industry vows to ‘rise to the challenge’ of coronavirus
Australia’s red meat and livestock industry has pledged to collaborate and work towards ensuring a steady supply of meat for consumers during the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.
March 23, 2020
US: Feed supply chains, pricing, markets see uncertainty from COVID-19
The ongoing response to the outbreak of the coronavirus COVID-19 in the US is lower prices for some feed grains and increased producer uncertainty, say analysts.
Coronavirus: US federal guidance highlights essential role of feed producers, employees
In the context of the COVID-19 outbreak, the US Department of Homeland Security has issued guidance, saying US feed and ingredient company employees along with feed crop producers are essential for critical infrastructure.
McDonald’s UK and Ireland closure causes concern for beef producers
The decision by McDonald's to close its UK and Ireland restaurants due to the ongoing coronavirus situation has caused concern among beef producers.
March 20, 2020
Ag groups call for animal feed production, sales to be labeled essential
The American Feed Industry Association (AFIA) is asking state officials to keep animal feed production and retail sites open as states are closing “non-essential businesses.”
Coronavirus: AIC moves to ensure availability of food and feed in the UK
Ensuring that feed and food supplies continue uninterrupted, while guaranteeing compliance with UK government rules to delay the spread of coronavirus are the top priorities of the AIC.
What impact are supply disruptions having on vitamin prices?
Welcome to a new service. We have partnered with Glowlit to bring our readers up to date on weekly animal feed additive price movements.
US meat industry moves to maintain supply as consumer demand grows during coronavirus
The North American Meat Institute (Meat Institute) has assured consumers that meat and poultry producers are continuing efforts to meet the growing demand for meat during the coronavirus pandemic.
Moy Park makes staffing appeal to cope with coronavirus demand
Poultry processor Moy Park has announced hundreds of temporary jobs at its Northern Ireland and UK sites to help maintain supply during the coronavirus pandemic.
March 19, 2020
UK beef exports experience strong start to 2020
UK exports of fresh and frozen beef recorded strong year-on-year growth in January, according to latest Agriculture & Horticulture Development Board (AHDB) Beef & Lamb statistics.
March 18, 2020
COVID-19: Challenges with cross-border feed deliveries in EU
FEFAC is collecting information from its feed manufacturing member companies about any market disruption linked to the COVID-19 outbreak.
European Commission calls on startups & SMEs to help with coronavirus outbreak
The European Commission is calling on startups and SMEs with technologies and innovations that could help in treating, testing and monitoring the coronavirus outbreak to apply for the next round of funding from the European Innovation Council (EIC).
March 17, 2020
Covid-19 response spurs Canada to pass US, Mexico trade deal
Following passage by the Canadian Parliament, the US-Mexico-Canada trade deal is heading toward final implementation.
COVID-19: Feed industry and ingredient supplier protocols
Feed industry representatives, feed manufacturers and ingredient suppliers have been reacting to the outbreak of coronavirus, putting protocols in place to ensure continuity of production and feed supply, while protecting workers.
‘Business as usual’ for the Dutch meat industry during coronavirus
The Dutch meat industry has reassured customers that its companies are working hard to continue to serve consumers at home and abroad, despite the coronavirus measures.
AAMP offers coronavirus guidance to members
The American Association of Meat Processors (AAMP) has issued guidance to its members as it feels the effect of the coronavirus.
Spanish pork industry pledges regular supply
The head of the Spanish pork industry’s main trade body has pledged the sector will maintain regular activity despite the coronavirus’ impact on the country.
March 16, 2020
Coronavirus: How will reduced feed costs impact global dairy market dynamics?
Rabobank says the coronavirus is weighing on the global grains and oilseeds markets, and that factor, coupled with weak global demand, in particular in China, along with trade and supply chain disruptions, could see feed costs could go lower in many dairy exporting regions, fuelling milk production growth above current expectations.
‘Potential supply chain impact of COVID-19 coronavirus is immense and unpredictable’
INX International, which produces inks and coatings for commercial packaging and digital applications, has spoken out about the impact of COVID-19 coronavirus, saying 'the potential supply chain impact of this pandemic is immense and unpredictable’.
Global meat industry reacts to coronavirus pandemic
The international meat industry has moved to try and maintain production as the coronavirus spreads throughout the world.
March 12, 2020
Jump in online animal feed sales in China due to coronavirus
E-commerce sales of animal feed have risen in the past few weeks in China, according to Alibaba’s Taobao marketplace, as reported by Reuters.
Evonik cites Covid-19 for feed additive shortage
Evonik is declaring a force majeure for the supply of an amino acid product generated at production facilities that have closed in response to the ongoing disease outbreak.
Danish Crown fights off Coronavirus concerns for now
Pork processor Danish Crown has reassured customers that its slaughter and production will continue as normal until Friday at the very least.
March 11, 2020
USDA: US corn prices weaken following coronavirus spread
Global production of feed grains, oilseeds and wheat are increasing even as disease concerns weaken some market demand.
March 6, 2020
Coronavirus impact on Chinese feed demand, US corn and soybean prices
The coronavirus outbreak has undermined feed use in China and hit poultry production hardest.
Coronavirus: Disruption to feed and animal nutrition event calendar
Several global feed related events have been postponed due to the emerging risk posed by the coronavirus.
February 25, 2020
Brazil: Livestock production, export demand continues despite feed costs, coronavirus
Higher, if stable, feed prices and uncertainty tied to a global disease outbreak are not expected to reduce Brazil’s beef and pork production or export demand in 2020, says analyst.
February 24, 2020
Coronavirus: Spike in demand for feed, food and pharma ingredients
The coronavirus outbreak has triggered a spike in spot demand for food, feed and pharma ingredients along with price volatility in the past two weeks, says Kemiex.
February 21, 2020
Coronavirus outbreak may limit Chinese buying of US soybeans
The coronavirus outbreak could delay Chinese procurement of soybeans from the US under the Phase 1 trade,
February 10, 2020
Weak demand for feed grain from New Zealand’s dairy sector
ANZ Research says coronavirus outbreak will likely have a bigger impact on New Zealand’s dairy market than the US-China trade war, but it is hard to quantify at this stage.
February 6, 2020
China moves to ensure flow of animal feed amid coronavirus epidemic
China says it is stepping up efforts to ensure orderly production and distribution of animal feed, meat, dairy products and eggs amid its fight against the novel coronavirus outbreak.
January 31, 2020
Coronavirus causing grain and oilseed market jitters
French grain and oilseeds market analysts, Agritel, noted that Chicago prices had dipped on fears of the spread of coronavirus.
January 28, 2020
Coronavirus: Experts foresee feed and food additive supply disruptions
A survey of some 97 professional buyers, traders and producers of feed and food additives saw 35 respondents or 36% expecting a high, and 50 respondents or 51% a low impact of the coronavirus on ingredient supply.
