Many producers have waited a long time for higher prices for their products, and while that time has finally arrived, they are being offset by rising input costs.
Russia Bans Some Poultry Imports
Russia has banned imports from 19 U.S. poultry suppliers as of Monday and could add another 29 companies. Russian officials say the ban was issued because those companies use antibiotics and other chemicals in their products. However, American officials say the ban is in retaliation to U.S. officials criticizing Russia for the use of military force against Georgia. Among the …
Meat Production to Cutback
The latest projections has meat production numbers cutting back over the next year.
EPA Upholds Ethanol Mandate…Upsetting Livestock Industry
The Environmental Protection Agency announced Thursday that it would deny a request by Texas Governor Rick Perry to reduce the Renewable Fuels Standard. EPA Administrator Stephen Johnson says they carefully considered the more than 15,000 comments on the issue and found that “the RFS is not causing economic harm but is strengthening our nation’s energy security and supporting American farming …
COOL Info Outreach
With implementation of mandatory Country of Origin Labeling just over six weeks away, USDA is working to assist retailers and food industry organizations in implementing mandatory Country of Origin labeling with outreach and information. Suppliers and retailers are invited to a free webinar outlining COOL requirements from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Friday, Aug. 8. Pre-registration is required by Aug. …
COOL Interim Final Rule Issued
USDA has issued the interim final rule for Country of Origin Labeling and are seeking comments. Listen to report here: To learn more about the new COOL rule, click Here
New Rule for Meat Recalls
Due to many problems with meat recalls, new rules have been established and will start in a few weeks to help consumers better understand what needs to be done and where. Listen to report here:
Protecting Producers Against Activists
Many in animal agriculture may not realize it but there is a group out there watching your back everyday when it comes to threats from activists.  Report (1:15 mp3)  To learn more log on to www.consumerfreedom.com
COOL to Include Grace Period
We are now less than 3 months from the implementation of Country of Origin Labeling, and while many are worried about being ready for the September 30th start date, Ag Secretary Ed Schafer says there will be a six-month grace period once it starts.  Report (1:00 mp3)
AL Opens New Diagnostic Lab
A brand new and larger diagnostic lab is now open and running in Boaz, Alabama. Â Report (1:15 mp3)