$103m suit filed against Dali’s owner and manager

The US Department of Justice filed a $103m civil claim yesterday against the owner and manager of the Dali containership, alleging negligence and unseaworthy conditions led to this March’s dramatic accident in Baltimore which brought port operations to a halt for months. 

The damning 53-page claim filed at the US District Court for the District of Maryland against Grace Ocean and Synergy Marine details in great detail the moments leading up to the March 26 accident that saw the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse with the loss of six lives. The claim details how the vessel lost power, regained power, and then lost power again before striking the bridge. 

“The owner and operator of the Dali were well aware of vibration issues on the vessel that could cause a power outage. But instead of taking necessary precautions, they did the opposite,” said principal deputy associate attorney general Benjamin Mizer. “Out of negligence, mismanagement, and, at times, a desire to cut costs, they configured the ship’s electrical and mechanical systems in a way that prevented those systems from being able to quickly restore propulsion and steering after a power outage. As a result, when the Dali lost power, a cascading set of failures led to disaster.”

Rather than address the underlying vibration problem, or even replace a cracked component, the defendants have been accused of welding over cracks and carrying on with business as usual.

The claim also details how the Dali had a vibration-dampening rod wedged between the number 1 step-down transformer and a steel beam in the transformer room (pictured). 

“It was jury-rigged, in the literal sense, from spare cargo equipment and painted white on one end,” the claim maintains.

The lawsuit asserts that none of the four means that should have been available to help steer the Dali — the propeller, rudder, anchor, or bow thruster — worked when they were needed to avert or even mitigate this disaster.

“This was an entirely avoidable catastrophe, resulting from a series of eminently foreseeable errors made by the owner and operator of the Dali,” said principal deputy assistant attorney general Brian Boynton, head of the Justice Department’s civil division. “The suit seeks to recover the costs incurred by the United States in responding to this disaster, which include removing the bridge parts from the channel and those parts that were entangled with the vessel, as well as abating the substantial risk of oil pollution.”

The Justice Department’s claim also seeks punitive damages to deter the owner and operator of the Dali and others. 

During a press call announcing the Justice Department’s actions, acting deputy assistant attorney general Chetan Patil of the civil division explained, “This accident happened because of the careless and grossly negligent decisions made by Grace Ocean and Synergy, who recklessly chose to send an unseaworthy vessel to navigate a critical waterway and ignored the risks to American lives and the nation’s infrastructure.”

In a statement, Darrell Wilson, a spokesperson for Grace Ocean and Synergy Marine, said that Wednesday’s filing “was anticipated” but that the “owner and manager will have no further comment on the merits of any claim at this time.”

“We do look forward to our day in court to set the record straight,” Wilson said.

The department’s claim is part of a legal action the owner and operator of the Dali initiated shortly after the tragedy, in which they seek exoneration or limitation of their liability to approximately $44m.  

The claim on behalf of the US does not include any damages for the reconstruction of the Francis Scott Key Bridge. The State of Maryland built, owned, maintained, and operated the bridge, and attorneys on the state’s behalf may file their own claim for those damages.

Legal cases surrounding this year’s most high-profile shipping accident are expected to run for many years costing hundreds of millions of dollars.

Lawyers for three of the families who lost loved ones when Baltimore’s Francis Scott Key Bridge collapsed six months ago are also suing the owners of the Dali containership for personal injuries, adding to a slew of lawsuits surrounding the vessel which is scheduled to leave American shores this week and make for China where extensive repairs will get underway.




The Grocery Shopper of the Future: Key Trends Shaping the Next Decade

American grocery shoppers are undergoing a significant transformation, and the future of grocery shopping looks vastly different from what we know today. According to a recent report by retail data company 84.51°, various factors such as wealth distribution, ethnicity, and family structures are all contributing to the evolution of the average consumer. These changes will have substantial effects on the wants, needs, and behaviors of grocery shoppers, as highlighted by the data.

 

Evolving Demographics and Their Impact on Grocery Shopping

Over the next decade, several key demographic shifts are expected to transform the consumer base in the United States. By 2034, people aged 65 or older will outnumber children under 18, signifying an aging population that will have unique needs when it comes to grocery shopping. This trend will likely affect product demand, with an emphasis on health-related items, convenience products, and possibly smaller portion sizes.

Additionally, the ethnic makeup of the U.S. population is set to change dramatically. While the number of Caucasian Americans is projected to shrink by 7%, the Hispanic population is expected to rise by 12%, and the Asian population by 13%. These shifts in diversity will prompt grocery stores and brands to reevaluate their product offerings, ensuring they cater to a more multicultural consumer base. Ethnic foods, ingredients, and flavors are likely to become more prominent in grocery aisles as brands seek to remain relevant in a more diverse society.

Economic Divergence and Its Role in Grocery Purchases

The gap between the rich and poor is expected to widen in the coming years, leading to greater economic divergence within the American population. This will directly impact the grocery shopping behaviors of consumers from different income brackets. Wealthier households may seek out premium products, organic foods, and specialty items, while lower-income households will focus on affordability and value.

For brands and retailers, understanding this divergence will be crucial. Offering a wide range of product prices and options will become increasingly important to appeal to both ends of the economic spectrum. Promotions, discounts, and loyalty programs may also play a larger role in attracting budget-conscious consumers, especially as income inequality becomes more pronounced.

Shifting Household Dynamics

Another major trend that will influence the future grocery shopper is the rise of non-traditional households. Single-person households and multigenerational families are expected to grow, altering the way people approach grocery shopping.

Single-person households, for example, may prioritize convenience, single-serve meals, and smaller portion sizes, while multigenerational households might look for bulk items and products that cater to different age groups. Grocery stores will need to adapt by offering a broader range of product sizes and meal solutions that appeal to these varying household structures.

Generational Purchasing Tendencies

Each generational cohort has its own unique set of purchasing tendencies, which will play a critical role in shaping the future of grocery shopping.

Gen Z: Affordability and On-the-Go Snacks

As the youngest generation with rapidly developing shopping habits, Gen Z consumers currently focus on affordability and value. Their most frequent purchases include crackers, baked foods, refrigerated Asian foods, and processed cheese. Gen Z also shows a preference for on-the-go snacks, aligning with their fast-paced lifestyles.

However, 84.51° highlights that Gen Z’s preferences may evolve as they age, providing brands with an opportunity to build long-term relationships with this cohort. While Gen Z is currently less interested in promotions and loyalty programs, their shopping habits are still forming, giving brands the chance to foster loyalty through trust and value-based messaging.

Millennials and Gen X: Convenience Matters

Both Millennials and Gen Xers exhibit similar purchasing tendencies, with frequent purchases of bagged snacks, baked breads, and fluid milk products. These two cohorts show a strong preference for convenience-oriented products, reflecting their often busy lifestyles. As Millennials begin to take on more household responsibilities and Gen Xers move further into middle age, their focus on convenience is expected to grow even more pronounced.

84.51° also noted that Millennials and Gen Xers are more open to niche products compared to Baby Boomers, especially those that provide added value or time-saving benefits. This trend indicates an opportunity for brands to innovate within niche categories, offering products that cater to the specific needs of these generations.

Baby Boomers: Sticking to the Basics

In contrast to the younger generations, Baby Boomers tend to stick to more traditional grocery purchases such as fluid milk products, baked breads, and bagged snacks. This generation shows less interest in niche categories like cider, and their grocery habits appear more rooted in familiarity and tradition. As Boomers age, their focus on familiar, staple items is likely to remain a key driver of their grocery shopping behavior.

Generational Income Projections

The income trajectory of these generational cohorts is another important factor to consider. Millennials are expected to peak at a population size of 74.9 million by 2033, but it is Gen Z that will make a major impact in terms of financial power. Gen Z’s income is projected to reach $33 trillion by the end of the decade, surpassing Millennials’ income by 2031.

This shift in financial power means that brands will need to prioritize building relationships with Gen Z shoppers now, as their influence on the grocery industry will only grow stronger in the years to come. By understanding the purchasing tendencies and values of Gen Z, brands can position themselves for long-term success as this generation’s financial clout increases.

How Grocery Retailers Can Stay Relevant

To remain competitive in the evolving grocery landscape, retailers and brands will need to adapt to these demographic, economic, and generational shifts. 84.51° offers several insights into how grocery stores can stay relevant in the future:

  • Catering to diverse needs: With a more ethnically diverse population, grocery stores should expand their offerings to include a wide variety of culturally relevant products and flavors.
  • Adapting to economic divergence: Offering products at different price points, from budget-friendly to premium, will help stores cater to both wealthier and budget-conscious consumers.
  • Emphasizing convenience: With single-person households and multigenerational families on the rise, stores should offer meal solutions that cater to these different needs, such as single-serve meals or bulk items.
  • Building relationships with Gen Z: As Gen Z’s income grows, brands have an opportunity to build strong, lasting relationships with this generation by offering value-driven products and messaging.

Conclusion

The grocery shopper of the future will be shaped by a confluence of demographic, economic, and generational changes. Retailers and brands that can anticipate and adapt to these shifts will be well-positioned to thrive in an evolving market. By understanding the needs and preferences of diverse shoppers, offering products at various price points, and fostering relationships with emerging generations, grocery stores can stay relevant in an increasingly complex consumer landscape.

Global Poultry Market Outlook for 2024: A Bullish Forecast Amid Rising Demand and Key Challenges

Global Poultry Market Outlook for 2024: A Bullish Forecast Amid Rising Demand and Key Challenges

The global poultry industry is poised for a strong recovery, with RaboResearch forecasting a bullish outlook for 2024. After several years of slow growth, global poultry consumption is expected to accelerate, reaching an estimated 2.5% to 3% growth rate, which marks a return to historic levels of expansion. This positive trend is largely driven by favorable production conditions, increasing retail demand, and rising sustainability strategies that continue to support poultry’s dominant position among animal proteins.

A Bullish Outlook for Global Poultry Markets

According to the latest report by RaboResearch, poultry markets around the world are expected to experience significant growth in the coming year. Poultry’s price advantage over other proteins, along with recovering foodservice demand and an increased focus on sustainability, is leading to a resurgence in consumption across most markets.

“Poultry’s strong price position against other proteins in most markets, along with strong retail demand, recovering foodservice demand, and rising sustainability strategies that support chicken demand are supporting rapid growth,” says Nan-Dirk Mulder, Senior Analyst – Animal Protein at RaboResearch.

This recovery comes after a period of slower consumption growth in the poultry sector, but the outlook is now brighter as the global market moves toward higher consumption levels. However, while the overall market conditions are strong, there are some notable exceptions where local challenges continue to affect performance.

Challenges in China and Japan: Oversupply and Lower Consumer Confidence

While most global poultry markets are performing well, China and Japan are experiencing a more difficult economic environment. Both countries are facing challenges stemming from local oversupply, which has created a situation of relatively low prices and rising stock levels. These conditions have been exacerbated by fast production growth, combined with lower consumer confidence and tougher economic conditions.

As a result, imports of raw chicken to both China and Japan have dropped sharply year-on-year in the first half of 2024. Local markets are struggling with high stock levels, which has weighed down demand for international imports. In contrast to this, many other regions are experiencing robust demand for imported poultry.

Global Poultry Trade: Growth Amid Volatility

Despite the challenges faced by some markets, global poultry trade is forecast to remain strong for the remainder of 2024. As consumption rises in key importing regions, demand for chicken imports is expected to grow, especially in markets such as Europe and Asia, which continue to perform well.

Processed chicken products and value-added poultry offerings are likely to see a recovery after several slow years, with prices for breast meat and processed poultry expected to remain stable. In advanced economies such as Europe, the U.S., and Japan, poultry consumption is anticipated to grow steadily, in line with long-term trends that favor affordable, versatile protein sources.

However, the global poultry trade will continue to face some level of volatility. The weakness in Chinese demand, for example, is putting downward pressure on prices for chicken feet, a popular product in the region. Geopolitical factors are also contributing to market uncertainty, particularly in the Middle East, where tensions have led to the rerouting of trade routes through South Africa. This rerouting has caused longer transport times and higher costs, which are impacting poultry trade between Asia and Europe.

Mulder notes that “animal diseases and geopolitical tensions will remain wild cards for the global poultry industry, as both factors can suddenly disrupt global trade flows.”

The Ongoing Threat of Animal Disease

One of the most persistent challenges for the global poultry industry is the threat of animal disease. In particular, avian influenza and Newcastle disease continue to pose risks to both producers and exporters. A recent outbreak of Newcastle disease at a farm in Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, led to the imposition of export bans from key importers, including Japan, China, Saudi Arabia, and South Africa.

Although no new cases have been detected, the incident has raised concerns about the resilience of Brazil’s poultry sector, which is a major global supplier. Several countries have implemented regional restrictions or embargoes in response to the outbreak, highlighting the vulnerability of the global poultry trade to sudden disease outbreaks.

Despite these concerns, the overall pressure from avian influenza has been lower this year compared to previous years. The European Union, for example, recorded its lowest number of avian influenza outbreaks since July 2019. Similarly, South Africa has managed to keep its commercial chicken production free from outbreaks, allowing for a full recovery in chicken production, although egg production remains affected.

In contrast, the United States continues to face challenges, with ongoing avian influenza outbreaks during the summer months that have significantly impacted its egg industry. As winter approaches in the Northern Hemisphere, the risk of further outbreaks is expected to increase, presenting a potential obstacle for the poultry sector.

Key Risks: Feed Price Volatility and Geopolitical Tensions

In addition to the threat of animal disease, the global poultry industry faces other significant risks, including feed price volatility and geopolitical tensions. Feed prices have fluctuated over the past year, and continued price volatility could put pressure on production costs, especially for smaller producers. For many poultry farmers, managing these cost fluctuations while maintaining profitability will be a key challenge in 2024.

Geopolitical tensions, particularly in the Middle East, also pose a risk to global trade flows. As noted earlier, the rerouting of trade routes due to political instability is increasing transportation costs and creating longer lead times for poultry exports. These disruptions may slow the pace of trade between some regions and could affect overall profitability for poultry exporters.

Maintaining Supply Growth Discipline

In the face of these challenges, maintaining discipline in supply growth will be critical for poultry producers. Mulder emphasizes that in a context of high risks, producers must carefully manage supply growth to avoid overexpansion, which could lead to oversupply and falling prices, similar to what has occurred in China and Japan.

By exercising restraint in production expansion, poultry producers can ensure that the market remains balanced, thereby supporting continued profitability. This cautious approach is particularly important given the ongoing risks from animal disease, feed price volatility, and geopolitical tensions.

Conclusion

The global poultry market is poised for growth in 2024, with consumption levels expected to rise significantly, supported by strong retail demand, recovering foodservice sectors, and growing sustainability efforts. While most regions are experiencing bullish market conditions, challenges persist in China and Japan due to local oversupply and economic difficulties.

Global poultry trade is forecast to remain robust, but risks such as animal disease, feed price volatility, and geopolitical tensions continue to loom large. For poultry producers, maintaining disciplined supply growth will be crucial to navigating these risks and ensuring that the current positive market conditions are sustained in the long term. By doing so, the global poultry sector can continue to capitalize on rising demand and position itself for future success.

Posted on Author Categories Poultry

How Lindt’s lead lawsuit could shake up the bakery and snacks sectors

One of the world’s leading premium chocolate makers is facing a​​ putative class action lawsuit alleging deceptive marketing.​​

The lawsuit, filed in the US District Court for the Eastern District of New York in February 2023, claims the Swiss chocolate giant has misled consumers by advertising its dark chocolate as ‘expertly crafted with the finest ingredients’ and ‘safe, as well as delightful’. In fact, they allegedly contain significant levels of lead and cadmium.

Lindt chocolates are highly regarded in the bakery and snacks sectors, particularly in the premium segment. They are often used for their rich flavor and high-quality ingredients in gourmet baked goods, desserts and upscale snack products, appealing to consumers seeking indulgent and luxurious experiences. Due to their premium pricing, they are more commonly found in artisanal or premium offerings rather than mass-produced products.

The ongoing legal battle has significant implications not only for Lindt but also for the broader confectionery industry, which is increasingly being scrutinized over ingredient transparency.

The allegations

Lindt markets its dark chocolate bars as being of superior quality and safe for consumption. However, the lawsuit hinges on claims that independent testing in December 2022 revealed that Lindt’s 70% and 85% dark chocolate products contained ‘exceedingly high levels of lead and cadmium’, which could pose a health risk, particularly to vulnerable groups such as pregnant women and children.

‘According to the report, one ounce of the three and a half ounce Lindt 85% Cocoa Dark Chocolate Bar contained lead at 166% above the California Maximum Allowable Dose Levels (MADL). One ounce of the three and a half ounce Lindt 70% Cocoa Excellence Dark Chocolate Bar contained cadmium at 116% above the California MADL’, says the lawsuit.

The lawsuit goes on to allege that Lindt knew that its bars contained the contaminants.

‘Starting in 2014, Defendant’s products were tested by a non-profit consumer advocacy organization, which informed Defendant that its dark chocolate products contained levels of cadmium and lead, a subject of concern for the group and for consumers at large,” it states.

As such, it argues that Lindt’s failure to disclose this information violates consumer protection laws and constitutes deceptive marketing practices.

Impact on the bakery and snacks sectors

Pic: GettyImages

The case against Lindt is part of a broader trend of increasing consumer awareness and demand for transparency in food products, especially in premium and health-conscious segments.

Lead, a heavy metal, is a naturally occurring element that can be present in small amounts in the environment and subsequently in food. However, prolonged exposure to significant levels of lead is known to be harmful, potentially leading to developmental issues in children and other health risks.

For producers like Lindt, which trade heavily on their reputation for quality, this lawsuit could damage consumer trust.

The allegations also put a spotlight on the entire dark chocolate sector – and those in other sectors that rely on such products – which has seen increased popularity due to its perceived health benefits.  It may also prompt regulatory bodies to take a closer look at the levels of lead and other heavy metals in chocolate products. While the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has guidelines for acceptable lead levels in sweet snacks frequently consumed by small children, there are no specific regulations for dark chocolate. This case could push for clearer industry-wide standards regarding permissible heavy metal content in products marketed as ‘healthy’ or ‘premium’.

It also means that stricter regulations could impose heftier operational costs for bakery and snack manufacturers, which may need to invest in new testing and quality control measures to ensure compliance.

Additionally, the case raises questions about the labeling and marketing of food products. If Lindt is found liable, it could lead to tighter regulations on how companies present their products to consumers, particularly when safety and quality claims are involved. Brands will need to ensure their marketing practices align with product testing and safety standards to avoid similar lawsuits.

A Lindt & Sprüngli spokesperson told Bakery&Snacks, “We are aware of the lawsuit that was filed. Lindt intends to vigorously defend itself against these entirely unproven challenges to our products. Like all of our products, our Excellence 85% and Excellence 70% chocolate bars meet strict quality and food safety requirements and are safe to consume.”

Case:​

Lindt & Sprüngli Dark Chocolate Litigation, No. 1:2023cv01186 – Document 41 (E.D.N.Y. 2024)​​




Best Management Practices for Corn Silage Harvest by: Sara Bauder SDSU Extension Forage Field Specialist

Ensiling involves many different components to ensure a successful harvest and high-quality, safe feedstuff. Often, producers get in a hurry and make a big mistake right off the bat—harvesting too early, resulting in very wet feed.

Recommended Moisture Levels

Ideally, corn silage should be ~62 to 68% moisture at harvest, or at approximately ¾ milk line, but this target changes a bit depending on how you intend to store the feed (Table 1). Although some cornfields may appear stressed, plants are likely wetter than one would assume. Leaves only make up a small portion of total corn plant moisture, the stalk and kernels contribute most to moisture levels.

TABLE 1. TARGET WHOLE CORN PLANT MOISTURE AND CORRELATING KERNEL MILK TRIGGER* FOR SILAGE HARVEST.
Silo Structure
Recommended Moisture (%)
Kernel Milk “Trigger” (%)
Bunker Silos/Drive Over Piles
65-70
80
Bag Silos
60-70
80
Upright Concrete Stave
60-65
65
Upright oxygen Limiting
50-60
40

*Trigger: Kernel milk stage to begin checking silage moisture.

Determining Whole-Plant Moisture

Although milkline can be used as a tool to indicate the rate at which dry down is happening, it does not always reliably provide an indication of whole-plant moisture. A Wisconsin study by Dr. Joe Lauer looked at over 800 farms and found very little relationship between kernel milkline and moisture due to the wide variability of corn hybrids at particular milk line points. For example, the study found that at 50% milk, some hybrids were at 50% plant moisture and others were as high as 74% moisture. This is why it is suggested to use kernel milkline as a trigger to begin testing for whole plant moisture; in fact, kernel milkline triggers correlated with moisture too high for proper ensiling in more than 95% of the hybrid environment cases evaluated in the Wisconsin study.

Once whole plant moisture is determined, an average moisture dry down rate of 0.5% per day can be used to predict when to start harvesting. In order to properly test for moisture, use either the microwave method or a Koster Tester. For specific instructions on using these methods, see the article, Silage Moisture Testing Tips.

Packing Strategy

Another often-overlooked factor in silage production and storage is packing. If using a pile or bunker silo, good packing and covering are of utmost importance to ensure feed quality is preserved and dry matter losses are kept to a minimum. Eliminating porosity is the key; in order to do this, layers need to be kept shallow enough and packing time needs to be sufficient. Packing layers should not exceed 6 inches. In addition, pack density should exceed 15 pounds of dry matter/cu. ft. In order to keep up with choppers and achieve these goals, more pack tractors may be needed.

Pounds Needed for Packing
To calculate pounds needed to achieve packing density, use the following equation:

  • [Tons of silage delivered to pile per hour] × [a constant of 800 lbs.] = lbs. needed for packing.
  • Example: 100 tons AF per hour × 800 = 80,000 lbs. (not counting push tractors).

Over-packing a pile is very hard to do, with the exception of the top layer. Spending excess time on the top layer of the pile or bunker does very little to pack the entire pile and may cause issues by rupturing plant cell walls, exposing nutrients and moisture to aerobic spoilage organisms.

Benefits of Covering

Piles should be covered as soon as possible following packing with oxygen barrier field and plastic. A 2011 study put together by Michigan State University Extension calculated the benefits of silage tarp by taking into account: the cost of plastic ranging from $0.115 to $0.120/ft.2, the labor included to put the tarp on the 12x80x140-foot bunker, and the initial cost of cut tires to cover tarp; this was weighed against $60/ton as fed corn. With a 30% loss in the top three feet of the uncovered bunker used in the study (totaling 201.6 tons of ‘as fed’ loss), losses amounted to near $12,096. Another 2 to 3% loss was assumed across the entire pile for closed ends and sides, creating an additional $3,226 in losses. Considering total losses of $15,322 against the cost of covering at $1,746, a net benefit of $13,575 was found in favor of covering. This is a 7.8:1 return on investment. Research done at Kansas State University showed very similar results. Long story short, although they may be a pain, silage tarps pay off by preserving the feed you worked hard to grow and put up.

Resources




Posted on Author Categories Dairy

Feedgrain Focus: Fierce frost quashes southern selling

A number of Mallee crops already under moisture stress have been hit by frost and are now being cut for hay. Pictured is a lentil crop. Photo: Sean Matthewson, Dodgshun Medlin

FROST in South Australia, Victoria and southern New South Wales on Monday morning has chopped into new-crop production ideas in the southern market.

On top of a dry start to spring, the frost is prompting some growers to drop the worst-affected crops for hay, and many others are nervous about both yield and quality for cereals from the upcoming harvest.

Unfavourable weather into this third week of spring has seen southern growers lose all interest in forward selling.

In the north, traded volume is largely confined to consumers booking a load or two to get them through to new-crop, which will hit the bins in the first half of October.

Prompt Sep 12 New crop Sep 12
Barley Downs $320 $310 $302 $310
ASW Downs $335 $335 $333 $335
Sorghum Downs $335 $335 $330 $330
Barley Melbourne $315 $320 $315 $320
ASW Melbourne $340 $330 $348 $340

Table 1: Indicative prices in Australian dollars per tonne.

North loses gloss as harvest nears

Harvest of early barley crops has started in Central Queensland and the Maranoa district, and will move south to the New South Wales border area in the next fortnight.

Volume harvesting of wheat is about two weeks behind barley, and some growers are now expecting above-average rather than near-record yields in the absence of a last grain-filling rain.

“People were talking about bumper crops; now they’re talking about good crops,” one trader said.

Consumers are seen as partially covered into January on wheat, but looking to buy off the header on barley.

“In 10 days, there’ll be a swag of barley coming off.”

South counts cost of frost

Monday morning’s frost event saw temperatures as low as -5 degrees Celsius, and while plenty of crops in south-eastern Australia escaped damage because of their aspect, elevation or moisture reserves, others have been hit hard.

Canola and lentils as well as cereals have all been impacted in areas from SA’s Eyre Peninsula to the NSW Riverina.

Speaking at the Henty Machinery Field Days this week, Intersales Group’s sales manager Trevor Morton said inquiry has been healthy, with hay gear attracting the most interest.

“In the last day or so there’s been a bit of frost and there’s been a bit of interest in spontaneous buying because of possible failed crops,” Mr Morton told the HMFD promoter.

Growers who can now only look forward to very low yields from probably downgraded grain are deploying their own haymaking equipment, or calling in contractors, to get their badly frosted and/or moisture-stressed crops baled.

“We had a light frost on Saturday, a cracker on Monday, and another light one on Tuesday,” Wagga Wagga-based trader Peter Gerhardy of Peters Commodities said.

“I believe there’s a lot of damage done.”

The frost has also burnt off pastures in low-lying areas, and without rain in the next week or two, graziers and mixed farmers will be extending their supplementary-feeding period with their own or someone else’s hay.

Pink shades indicate the scope of recent frost on south-eastern Australia’s grain-growing districts. Source: Bureau of Meteorology

With export values for wheat and barley unimpressive, and consumers comfortable about whopping volumes coming out of central and northern NSW, southern growers looking to wash out contracts for forward sales could well generate demand in the near term.

Mr Gerhardy said growers are hoping for rain by early October, as saved many a crop at the eleventh hour last year, as they weigh up their options on cutting crops for hay instead of carrying through to harvest, or washing out contracts,

“Growers…just don’t know what to do.”

At Young, Focus Grain managing director Michael Jones said growers will have to wait a few days to be able to gauge the impact of Monday’s frost.

“Growers are nervous; this rain forecast for next week will be really important to keep things on track,” Mr Jones said.

Crops from Cowra to West Wyalong and north are generally in excellent condition, and missed the worst of the frost, with only a few hours that got as low as -2, and with more subsoil under the crop.

Mr Jones said most end users are chipping away on October-delivery grain to get them through November, and can then look forward to readily available new crop from December.

“I think they’re fully aware that even if it’s a disappointing harvest here, there’ll be plenty in the north.”

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Posted on Author Categories Crops

Lawsuit alleges Tyson climate, beef claims are misleading

Tyson Foods is misleading consumers by claiming it will reach net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050, the Environmental Working Group alleges in a lawsuit filed in a Washington, D.C., court Wednesday that also goes after the company’s “climate-smart” beef claim.

Tyson has no discernible plan “to eliminate the vast emissions associated with the many stages of its beef, chicken, and pork production, including feed production, and has offered no details on how its industrially produced beef is a ‘climate-smart’ choice,” says the lawsuit, which was filed in D.C. Superior Court.

EWG is asking the court to enjoin ”Tyson’s false or misleading marketing claims under the D.C. Consumer Protection Procedures Act.” It also seeks an order “requiring redress of consumer misunderstanding about the climate impact of its industrial beef production.” 

“Even if Tyson did have a plan to substantially reduce its overall GHG emissions and to change the way it produces meat, Tyson could not possibly fulfill its commitments to achieve net-zero emissions or make its beef products ‘climate-smart,’” the lawsuit states.

Kelsey Eberly, a senior staff attorney with FarmSTAND helping to represent EWG, said on a call with reporters Wednesday that Tyson’s GHG emissions are “estimated to be greater than those in entire industrialized countries, including Austria, Belgium, Greece or New Zealand.”

USDA has approved a label allowing Tyson’s Brazen Beef brand to claim its production results in a 10% reduction in GHGs, but the lawsuit doesn’t address the label. EWG has petitioned FSIS to prohibit “climate-friendly” or similar claims on beef products.

The Food Safety and Inspection Service recently released updated guidelines for manufacturers in which it “strongly encourages the use of third-party certification to substantiate animal-raising or environment-related claims.”

“Consumers depend on corporations to provide honest and transparent information about their products and practices,” EWG Chief Operating Office and General Counsel Caroline Leary said on a call with reporters Wednesday. “Without this, consumers are left vulnerable to false or misleading claims.”

In a statement by a spokesperson, Tyson said, “While we do not comment on specific litigation, Tyson Foods has a long history of sustainable practices that embrace good stewardship of our environmental resources. We will continue to support agricultural practices that further these efforts and work to strengthen the overall resiliency of the U.S. agriculture system.”

JBS, the world’s largest beef producer, also is facing a lawsuit over climate-friendly claims. New York Attorney General Letitia James sued the company in March. That lawsuit follows a recommendation from the National Advertising Review Board of the Better Business Bureau that JBS’s climate claims were misleading to consumers.

This article was updated with a statement from Tyson Foods. 

For more news, go to www.Agri-Pulse.com.

 




Posted on Author Categories Produce

Why we took our message to Canberra

Thousands of farmers and supporters from across Australia came together to send a clear message to our nation’s leaders: farmers need a seat at the table when it comes to agricultural policy.

For too long, decisions have been made without adequate consultation with those who understand the land best – the farmers who work it every day. We highlighted critical issues facing our industry, from the proposed ban on live sheep exports to water buybacks in the Murray Darling Basin, and called for practical solutions on matters like the Diesel Fuel Rebate and unnecessary red tape around emissions reporting.

This rally wasn’t about politics; it was about policy. We want forward-thinking solutions that will allow Australian agriculture to thrive, not ideological battles driven by out-of-touch activists and detractors who would like to see less food and fibre grown in Australia. These groups often push agendas that would undermine our ability to feed and clothe the nation, without understanding the realities of farming or the vital role we play in the economy and regional communities.

We’re ready to work with all sides of politics to develop policies that support sustainable farming practices, enhance productivity, and ensure a bright future for rural communities. It’s time to push back against those who seek to diminish Australian agriculture and instead focus on solutions that will keep farmers farming.

To those who attended or supported us from afar, thank you. Your presence and solidarity sent a powerful message that cannot be ignored. This rally marks the beginning of our campaign to ensure farmers’ voices are heard and that we can continue to produce the food and fibre Australia relies on.

To all Australians, I say this: when farmers thrive, the nation prospers. We are the backbone of food security, the lifeblood of regional communities, and a driving force in the national economy. Support for Australian agriculture is an investment in our shared future, and a rejection of those who would see our industry diminished.

The voice of rural Australia was heard loud and clear in Canberra yesterday. Now, it’s time for action. We stand ready to work with policymakers to craft a vision for Australian agriculture that is sustainable, productive, and prosperous, while also standing firm against those who would seek to undermine our vital work. The future of farming and our nation depends on it.

Source: National Farmers Federation. To sign the petition click here





Posted on Author Categories Meat

Vermont Creamery names new donut-shaped cheese after co-founder

WEBSTERVILLE, VT. – Artisanal cheese and cultured dairy maker Vermont Creamery celebrated the company’s 40th anniversary Sept. 17 by releasing a new mixed-milk, soft-ripened cheese.

The company shared that Hooper – named after one of Vermont Creamery’s co-founders, Allison Hooper – is its first washed rind, aged cheese.

“Vermont Creamery began as a passion for quality cheese and a belief that we could create delicious, artisanal dairy while making a positive impact on everyone and everything our business touches,” Hooper said. “Over the past 40 years, Vermont Creamery has continued to innovate and perfect its craft while embracing the Vermont spirit and mission that makes Vermont Creamery so special.”

Its co-founder, the company noted, long had aspirations of creating a donut-shaped Geotrichum rind cheese, and Vermont Creamery’s new product is based on the traditional approach used in France’s Loire Valley.

The process for creating Hooper, the company said, calls for washing the wrinkled Geotrichum rind with a French gray sea salt brine. The donut shape, it added, helps the cheese age evenly. Vermont Creamery said it makes the soft cheese in small batches with local milk sourced from both goats and cows.

The company described Hooper as featuring a creamy and “luxe” mouthfeel, with “fruity, funky, savory and buttery” flavor notes.

“Vermont Creamery has always been synonymous with high quality and great taste, and we’re inspired to continue building on the tradition of craftsmanship,” said general manager Harry Kahn, who credited co-founders Bob Reese and Hooper with making that possible. “A new aged goat cheese honoring Allison’s legacy is the perfect encapsulation of our 40th milestone and the exciting years ahead.”

The company launched its Hooper cheese at Whole Foods Market locations, as well as independent cheese shops. Plus, Vermont Creamery said it will be sold online exclusively through Murray’s Cheese for six months.




NBi Technologies Earns SQF Certification

NBi Technologies, the parent company of NBi FlexPack, has earned recognition as a Safe Quality Food (SQF) Certified Company. 

The scope of the certification refers to food sector products, which include NBi FlexPack metalized polyester and recycled polyethylene digital flexible pouches with and without zippers. The Child-Resistant Standup Pouch, the Recyclable Clear High Barrier and the Recyclable White High Barrier films with zippers are ideal for cannabis edibles to help brands meet packaging regulations in states that require child-resistant packaging. 

“We’re thrilled to have received an excellent audit rating by ASI Food Safety,” said Rick Nerenhausen, NBi general manager. “As a manufacturer of food packaging, SQF certification is a strong proof of performance that we provide solutions to help cannabis brands give peace of mind to their consumers that the edible contents are packaged with safety as a top priority.” 

The inspection of the audit team took place at the NBi facility in Mukwonago, Wisconsin. The scope of SQF certification refers to the laminating, slitting, forming, zipper application and packing of metalized polyester and recycled polyethylene digital flexible pouches packed in plastic bags and cardboard boxes.  

SQF is a food safety standard recognized by Global Food Safety Initiative (GFSI). GFSI has approved SQF as one of the benchmarked schemes that meet its stringent requirements for food safety management systems. This recognition means that companies implementing SQF can demonstrate compliance with GFSI’s global standards, enhancing their credibility and market access. 

With 25 years of print expertise, NBi FlexPack specializes in custom dispensary packaging like custom weed bags, child-resistant metalized bags, custom marijuana packaging, concentrate packaging and flexible packaging for cannabis edibles such as supplement packaging, custom cookie packaging, custom candy bags and snack packaging. To keep the contents of dispensary packaging fresher longer, NBi provides custom resealable bags. 

For cannabis food brand owners that want to lower their carbon footprint, NBi offers a variety of green packaging including recyclable, compostable and bio-based films.




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