Walmart Opens First Owned and Operated Beef Packaging Plant
5 6 8 13 16 17 18 22
Canadian Beef Gets Access to Australian Market Once Againn
CFA and NCIAF Sign MOU to Advance Collaboration and Reconciliation
Chris White Running Canadian Meat Advocacy Office in Beijing
Temple Grandin Film: “An Open Door”t
Ground Beef Prices Reach Record Highs
Advancing Food Safety in Ontario’s Meat Industry: Latest Scientific Insights
Succession Standstill: The Future of Farming in Canada
August 2025 Volume 25 Number 8
PUBLISHER
Ray Blumenfeld ray@meatbusinesspro.com
CO-PUBLISHER
Deb Wilson deborah@meatbusinesspro.com
DIGITAL MEDIA EDITOR
Cam Patterson cam@meatbusinesspro.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Beatrice Moen, Stacey Newman, Heather Schlitz, Hugh Cameron, Jack Roberts
CREATIVE DIRECTOR
Patrick Cairns
Meat Business Pro is published 12 times a year by We Communications West Inc
WALMART OPENS FIRST OWNED AND OPERATED BEEF PACKAGING PLANT
As part of its efforts to build an end-to-end supply chain for Angus beef, Walmart opened its first owned and operated meat processing and packaging facility using beef sourced from Sustainable Beef LLC.
“This is the first case-ready facility fully owned and operated by Walmart, and that milestone ensures we’re able to bring more consistency, more transparency and more value to our customers,” Walmart’s VP of Food said in a statement.
Sustainable Beef LLC, in which Walmart has a minority stake, will provide the 300,000+ square-foot facility with Angus cuts which will then be packaged and distributed to Walmart stores across the Midwest.
While the Olathe facility will be the first Walmart-owned and operated beef packaging facility, the company also packages Angus beef at a 201,000 square foot facility operated by FPL Foods in Thomasville, Georgia.
The contents of this publication may not be reproduced by any means in whole or in part, without prior written consent from the publisher. Printed in Canada. ISSN 1715-6726
Walmart’s increased efforts at vertical integration may be good for consumers, but producers worry that Walmart’s market dominance could impact competition within the beef industry.
“They are creating a temporary new marketing outlet for their animals, but if the whole industry follows this model, it will reduce options for themselves and other producers,” says Bill Bullard, CEO of R-CALF, a cattle producers’ advocacy group said to Successful Farming.
For Sustainable Beef, however, the partnership with Walmart means the company now has a reliable buyer while Walmart has a consistent source of beef without negotiating with individual ranchers or meat processors. Walmart will also have greater control over feed prices and the sources of Sustainable’s livestock, giving Walmart further price stability.
Grocery sales account for nearly two-thirds of Walmart's U.S. revenue.
CANADIAN BEEF GETS ACCESS TO AUSTRALIAN MARKET ONCE AGAIN
The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) has announced the successful re-opening of market access for Canadian beef and beef products to Australia opening the door to a key Indo-Pacific market for the first time since 2003.
Regained access offers not only economic potential for Canadian farmers and processors but also contributes to global food security by providing more international consumers access to premium quality Canadian beef. By opening access to premium markets like Australia, Canadian producers can increase exports, generating new revenue streams that fuel investments, sustain jobs, and support local economies from coast to coast.
Heath MacDonald, Minister of Agriculture and AgriFood, stated, “Canada is known around the world for producing top-quality beef — and that’s a testament to the hard work of our producers. Strengthening our trade ties with Australia—one of our key partners in the Indo-Pacific—means more opportunities for Canadian farmers and processors to grow their businesses, create good jobs, and build up our economy. The Government of Canada is absolutely committed to supporting the industry as we open new doors, drive growth, and showcase the best of Canada to the world.”
Canada holds a negligible risk status for bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE). which means Canada’s beef production system is recognized internationally as sound, safe and respected.
“This regained access to the Australian market is a testament to the cooperation between the CFIA, the Canadian beef industry and our trading partners. CFIA’s commitment to science-based decision-making and rigorous inspection standards helps to uphold Canada’s global reputation for excellence in food safety and animal health. This achievement not only reflects the strength of our system and the value of Canada’s high-quality beef internationally but also supports the livelihoods of Canadian workers and families who rely on this industry”, said Paul MacKinnon, President, Canadian Food Inspection Agency.
NSF INTERNATIONAL FOCUSES ON CANADIAN FOOD INDUSTRY WITH NEW WEBSITE FOR SERVICES IN CANADA
• A key initiative for Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada and the Canadian Food Inspection Agency under the IPS is the Indo-Pacific Agriculture and Agri-Food Office (IPAAO) which opened in Manilla, Philippines in February 2024. Its mobile team of technical experts and trade commissioners works to explore and advance trade opportunities around the Indo-Pacific region, strengthen technical and regulatory cooperation, identify new business opportunities for Canadian exporters to diversify their exports and support investment attraction efforts into Canada.
Global public health organization showcases services for Canada’s growing and fast-changing
website - www.nsfcanada.ca - to give Canada’s growing and complex food and beverage industry easy access to the global public health organization’s expertise and services in Canada. The website combines information on the depth, experience and capabilities of the NSF International Canadian office with access to NSF International’s global services dedicated to food safety and quality.
The Government remains committed to expanding international market opportunities for the country’s agri-food sector. Working closely with industry stakeholders and trading partners, Canada continues to protect its strong international reputation as a source of safe, high-quality food, helping Canadian products compete and succeed globally.
QUICK FACTS
• In 2024, Canada remained a major global beef exporter, ranking 8th in the world by volume.
Evolving regulations across countries and increasing complexities associated with a globalized food supply network present challenges for NSF International clients in Canada and around the world. The new Canadian website offers expertise and services to help companies navigate these challenges, including certification and auditing, consulting, technical services, training and education, food and label compliance, packaging, and product and process development.
• In 2003, Australia imposed import restrictions on Canadian beef, following the discovery of Canada’s first domestic case of BSE. In 2021, Canada was officially recognized by the World Organization of Animal Health as having negligible risk status for BSE, underlining the integrity of our animal health and food inspection systems.
accredited International Association for Continuing Education and Training (IACET) site. Topics include HACCP, food safety and quality, GFSI benchmarked standards, regulations (including FSMA), food science, food packaging, food microbiology and ISO standards. Training modalities include eLearning, on-site, customized and open enrolment.
Additionally, the website includes information about
• Canada’s global exports of agriculture and agri-food (not including fish and seafood) in 2024 overall was $92.2 billion in 2024, compared to $91.6 billion in 2023.
NSF International’s Canadian website provides information on the following services:
Certification & auditing: Third-party food safety audits and certifications, which are integral components of supplier selection and regulatory compliance. Accurate audits are the first step toward successful verification of a company’s food safety system, providing improved brand protection and customer confidence. Certifications and audits are available for animal and produce in the agriculture industry, GFSI certification and management system registration.
• Canada’s Indo-Pacific Strategy (IPS) was launched in November 2022 to position Canada to take advantage of growing opportunities in the region by strengthening regional engagement and deepening diplomatic, security, economic, and sustainable development partnerships.
Training and education: Training for the global food and beverage industry across the supply chain as an
TEMPLE GRANDIN FILM: “AN OPEN DOOR”
By Heather Schlitz, Reuters
Temple Grandin – a tireless speaker, prolific author, and distinguished professor of animal science at Colorado State University – is often circled by students on the Fort Collins campus. She is flagged down by fans at the airport. And she is surrounded by admirers at agriculture conferences and gatherings for families of children with autism.
She is a pioneer in food-animal welfare who has achieved global distinction with insights attained from her own autism. Chief among them is her ability –gained through visual thinking – to understand livestock behavior and to design effective and humane handling systems used by suppliers of some of the world’s largest food purveyors.
“Who would have ever predicted that an autistic woman would come along and transform how we handle our animals? I think that’s why she is such a great hope for families in the autism community,” says Janet Riley, one of Grandin’s friends and colleagues. “She’s a rock star.”
Now, audiences worldwide can learn about Grandin’s extraordinary life and influence through the documentary film “An Open Door.” It will be available on the streaming platforms Amazon Prime, Apple TV+ and Kanopy beginning August 12. The film is presented by CSU’s College of Agricultural Sciences, was written and directed by award-winning filmmaker John Barnhardt and is distributed by Good Deed Entertainment. It has been accepted into 72 festivals, has earned 27 individual awards, and has been featured in 26 states and nine countries.
‘BE KIND’
“At the age of 77, Temple Grandin lives life full of purpose and meaning that continues to inspire millions around the globe,” said Barnhardt, a CSU alumnus and film producer based in Fort Collins.
“The film shows us how Temple has worked so that autism would not define her,” he continued. “It also reinforces the importance of being a kind person. Be kind to the person next to you because it just might be the next Temple Grandin. Be kind, have perseverance, and don’t let people define you. That’s the takeaway from the film.”
Grandin was also inspiration for an HBO feature film, “Temple Grandin,” released in 2010. Among dozens of accolades, she has been named one of TIME magazine’s 100 most influential people in the world, was recently honored by USA TODAY among its 2025 Women of the Year and received CSU’s 2023 Founders Day Medal for her profound impact.
Ten CSU students contributed to all aspects of the new documentary – part of the film Grandin says she finds especially gratifying. Continued on Page 10
INSPIRED STUDENTS
For instance, Jacob Faulkner worked as an assistant editor of “An Open Door” as he was completing his bachelor’s degree in computer science; the experience prompted him to pursue a master’s degree in journalism and media communication with the aim of working in the film industry.
“It was such a blast,” Faulkner said of working on the documentary. “I feel like I learned something every single day, and working with Temple was such an inspiration. She’s such an important person.”
Ella Peters helped film and edit the documentary. She graduated from CSU in May and soon landed a job working for a film production company based in Vail.
“It was great hands-on experience, and I got to see what it was like to work in the film production world. I fell in love with it,” Peters said. “It was an incredible experience.”
AUTISM ADVOCACY
In her books, appearances, and in the film, Grandin describes the importance of teaching kids with autism useful skills that align with their interests – and giving them a chance to work and contribute, so their lives are not defined by a diagnosis.
“I want to see these kids get out there and be successful. Let’s show what autistic people can do,” she says. “People thought I was weird when I started, but when they saw my work, they said, ‘Oh, you did that?’”
In “An Open Door,” she describes the opportunities she found when key people saw the value of her work and gave her a chance.
“I recognized doors to opportunity. Doors have always been very symbolic for me because I have to have visual images,” she says. “One thing I figured out very early on is certain people can open doors.”
EQUINE CENTER
The concept is on display at the Temple Grandin Equine Center, with branches at CSU in Fort Collins and at the CSU Spur campus in Denver. The center honors Grandin and is notable for its three-part focus: It hosts equine therapy sessions for children and adults with disabilities and other challenges, including many with autism. It is an unparalleled site for university research examining benefits and best practices in equine-assisted services. And it is home to experiential coursework for CSU students studying equine sciences, occupational therapy and other disciplines.
https://www.beaconmetals.com
“Horses saved me,” Grandin often says, referring to experiences in the horse barn at the private high school she attended. Her interest in horses led to her broader interest in livestock – and eventually to her career in the cattle industry and teaching, the documentary shows. “When I was in high school, one of the few places I was not bullied and teased was horseback riding and working in the barn,” she says in the film.
“An Open Door” traces Grandin’s life from her upbringing near Boston, through school, into the cattle industry, on to higher education and to her standing as a hero in the autism community. In 1990, Grandin joined CSU, where she has conducted ground-breaking research and taught classes in livestock behavior and humane handling; she has likewise mentored dozens of graduate students who have gone on to careers in animal welfare.
It has not been an easy journey, the film shows. Determined to give food animals a decent life and painless death, Grandin persevered through sexism, skepticism and even ridicule to demonstrate the value of her designs.
‘WE LOVED HER PASSION’
Over time, Grandin’s concepts, handling systems and associated auditing tools have been adopted as gold standards around the globe, in many cases by beef producers and meatpackers that supply the world’s largest grocers and fast-food chains. If you’ve eaten a hamburger, you’ve likely been an end user of Grandin’s work.
“From the very beginning, we loved her passion, her expertise, and she came in with science and objectivity,” Bob Langert, retired vice president of sustainability for McDonald’s Corp., says in the film. “We trusted 100 percent that she would have the best interests of the animals, the suppliers and even the McDonald’s business.”
Her story is widely embraced as proof positive that innovation springs from different kinds of thinking and diverse personal experiences – a point Grandin stresses in countless invited talks.
“In this documentary, Temple shows us that it’s not only important but necessary that we have different minds solving our global problems,” said John Festervand, executive producer of “An Open Door” and director of development in CSU’s College of Agricultural Sciences.
Grandin hopes the film encourages people in both the animal welfare and autism communities.
“When I was younger, I used to look for great, mysterious meanings of life,” she says in the film. “Now that I’ve gotten older, I’ve realized the most important things are the things I do – that I help do something real to make something better. I want to open doors for other people now.”
ADVANCING FOOD SAFETY IN ONTARIO’S MEAT INDUSTRY: LATEST SCIENTIFIC INSIGHTS
By Stacey Newman
How to leverage science and technology to reduce risk, improve traceability and protect public health.
In the highly regulated world of meat processing, ensuring food safety is paramount. As meat processors and butchers in Ontario strive to uphold the highest standards, staying abreast of the latest scientific advancements is crucial.
Ontario’s meat industry is important to the province’s economy, contributing significantly to both local and national food supplies. According to the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs (OMAFRA), the province is home to over 400 federally and provincially licensed meat processing facilities, which collectively process millions of tonnes of meat annually. Ensuring the safety of this vast supply chain is a complex task that requires continuous innovation and adherence to stringent safety standards.
INNOVATIONS IN PATHOGEN DETECTION
One of the most significant advancements in food safety is the development of rapid pathogen detection methods. Traditional methods of detecting pathogens like E. coli and Salmonella often take several days, during which contaminated products may already have entered the market. However, new technologies such as real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and nextgeneration sequencing (NGS) have revolutionized this process.
Real-time PCR can detect and quantify pathogens in meat samples within hours, significantly reducing the time needed to confirm contamination. This rapid detection is crucial for meat processors in Ontario, enabling quicker responses to potential outbreaks and minimizing the risk of contaminated products reaching consumers.
ENHANCING SANITATION PROTOCOLS WITH AUTOMATION
Automation is another area where science is making a significant impact. Automated sanitation systems are becoming more prevalent in meat processing plants, providing consistent and thorough cleaning that manual methods can’t achieve. These systems use advanced sensors and robotic arms to ensure that all surfaces, including hard-to-reach areas, are sanitized effectively.
In Ontario, several meat processing facilities have begun integrating these automated systems, resulting in improved hygiene standards and reduced labour costs. According to a report by Food Safety Magazine, plants that have adopted automated sanitation technologies have seen up to a 20 per cent reduction in contamination rates, showcasing the efficacy of these innovations.
THE ROLE OF BIOCONTROL AGENTS
Biocontrol agents, such as bacteriophages and competitive exclusion products, are emerging as effective tools in the fight against foodborne pathogens. Bacteriophages are viruses that specifically target and kill bacteria, making them a natural and safe option for reducing bacterial contamination in meat products.
Research conducted by the University of Guelph has demonstrated the effectiveness of bacteriophages in reducing E. coli levels in beef by up to 90 per cent. Implementing such biocontrol methods in Ontario’s meat processing plants can significantly enhance food safety, offering an additional layer of protection against harmful bacteria.
TRACEABILITY AND BLOCKCHAIN TECHNOLOGY
Traceability is a critical component of food safety, allowing for the quick identification and isolation of contaminated products. Blockchain technology is now being leveraged to enhance traceability in the meat industry. By providing a secure and immutable ledger of transactions, blockchain ensures that every step of the meat supply chain is transparent and verifiable.
In Ontario, several pilot projects are underway to integrate blockchain technology into meat processing operations. These initiatives aim to provide consumers with detailed information about the origin and journey of their meat products, thereby increasing trust and accountability within the supply chain.
ONTARIO’S COMMITMENT TO FOOD SAFETY
Ontario is committed to maintaining high food safety standards through continuous improvement and adoption of new technologies. The province’s regulatory bodies, including OMAFRA and the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA), work closely with industry stakeholders to ensure that the latest scientific advancements are implemented effectively.
Recent statistics from OMAFRA indicate that Ontario’s meat processing industry has seen a steady decline in foodborne illness outbreaks, thanks in part to these rigorous safety measures. In 2023, the number of reported cases of meat-related foodborne illnesses dropped by 15 per cent compared to the previous year, highlighting the positive impact of ongoing food safety initiatives.
The meat industry in Ontario is embracing scientific advancements to enhance food safety. From rapid pathogen detection and automated sanitation to biocontrol agents and blockchain technology, these innovations are transforming how meat processors and butchers ensure the safety and quality of their products. By staying informed and adopting these cutting-edge practices, Ontario’s meat industry can continue to safeguard public health while maintaining its reputation for excellence.
For meat processors and butchers across the province, the message is clear: embracing the latest science in food safety is not just an option, it’s a necessity. By doing so, Ontario can continue to lead the way in providing safe, high-quality meat products to consumers both locally and globally.
For more information about the Centre for Meat Innovation and Technology, visit https://www.cmit.ca/
CFA AND NCIAF SIGN MOU TO ADVANCE COLLABORATION AND RECONCILIATION
The Canadian Federation of Agriculture (CFA) is has announced the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the National Circle for Indigenous Agriculture & Food (NCIAF). This agreement marks a significant step toward building stronger collaboration between Indigenous and non-Indigenous agricultural producers across Canada.
The MOU reflects a shared commitment to advancing collaboration, dialogue, and the advancement of food security through sustainable agricultural practices, grounded in both traditional Indigenous knowledge and modern innovations.
“This partnership is more than just a memorandum, it’s a commitment to reconciliation in action,” said Kallie Wood, President and CEO of NCIAF. “By joining forces with the Canadian Federation of Agriculture, we’re creating space for Indigenous voices, knowledge systems, and leadership to be recognized and elevated within the national agricultural landscape. Together, we will build pathways that honour the past, seize opportunities in the present, and cultivate a more prosperous and sustainable future for all agricultural communities in Canada."
“This partnership represents a meaningful step toward building a more inclusive and resilient agricultural sector in Canada,” added Keith Currie, President of the Canadian Federation of Agriculture. “By working together, we can amplify Indigenous voices, support agricultural entrepreneurs, and promote food production in ways that benefit all Canadians.”
The MOU establishes a framework for the two organizations to collaborate on key initiatives, including:
• Promoting Indigenous-led agricultural practices that honour traditional knowledge and modern sustainability
• Encouraging dialogue and collaboration between Indigenous and non-Indigenous agricultural communities
• Supporting policy development focused on food security and education
• Advocating agricultural practices and innovations that benefit communities nationwide
The agreement also identifies key areas for joint action, such as:
• Advocacy supporting Indigenous food sovereignty, sustainability, agricultural innovation, and economic development through aligned policy initiatives
• Developing training tools, workshops, and forums for sharing Indigenous and non-Indigenous perspectives on sustainable agriculture and policy
• Identifying opportunities and supporting partnerships that empower Indigenous farmers and agricultural entrepreneurs
The CFA looks forward to working closely with NCIAF to strengthen cooperation and understanding between Indigenous and non-Indigenous agriculture communities, and to further shared prosperity in Canada’s agri-food sector.
For more information, visit https://www.cfa-fca.ca/
CHRIS WHITE RUNNING CANADIAN MEAT ADVOCACY OFFICE IN BEIJING
China is a key export market for Canadian meat producers and the Canadian industry continues to try and maximize exports to that region. As a result, the Canadian Pork Council (CPC), the Canadian Meat Council (CMC) and the Canadian Cattle Association (CCA) launched the Canadian Meat Advocacy Office to be based in Beijing, China.
It has been announced that Chris White has taken on the role of President and CEO of the Canadian Meat Advocacy Office in Beijing (effective August 1), building off his eight years of serving as CMC President and CEO.
CHRIS WHITE RECENTLY POSTED THE FOLLOWING STATEMENT:
“A heartfelt thanks to my colleagues and the Board of Directors of CMC for the collaboration and commitment. I am proud of the work we have done, the substantive relationships we’ve curated, and the credibility we’ve earned with government, who regularly seeks out our organization for our leadership and counsel.
“In particular I’d like to thank the leaders and early advocates of the office, Sylvain Fournaise, David Typer, Richard Davies, Dominic Barton, Jennifer May, Matthew Mann.
“We are also grateful to the Chinese Embassy in Canada, and in particular former Ambassador Cong and current Ambassador Wang, for their partnership and support.
“There is a great deal of work ahead for industry in China - we hope this office is viewed as the latest commitment to this market.
“So too, I very much look forward to working with the very talented team at the Canada China Business Council who have been incredibly supportive and helpful.
“And most of all, to my amazing wife, Alayne Crawford and kids — thank you for being the heart behind every decision, every mile, and every new beginning. Here’s to the next chapter — and to continuing to champion Canadian excellence on the global stage.”
GROUND BEEF PRICES REACH RECORD HIGHS
By Hugh Cameron
Ground beef prices across the U.S. continue to reach new highs, driven by shrinking cattle herds, with looming import restrictions threatening to push costs even higher.
According to recently released government data, the average price of a pound of 100 percent ground beef rose to $6.12 last month, up from $5.98 in May and $5.47 in June 2024. Experts have said this trend shows no signs of slowing, meaning there may be upward pressure on prices through 2026 and beyond.
"It might be at least two to three years before we would see any significant change on the supply side that would ultimately lead to some moderation in beef prices," agricultural economist Derrell Peel told Newsweek.
The rising cost of staple agricultural products such as beef and eggs has further strained household budgets in 2025, as well as the budgets of businesses reliant on the sales of these items. In addition to having an outsize effect on inflation data, summer price increases are hitting during the peak months when beef sales traditionally peak because of outdoor gatherings further underscoring the growing issue.
June marked the first month since data collection began in the 1980s that ground beef prices rose above $6 per pound. According to the Consumer Price Index released by the Bureau of Labor Statistics on July 15, steaks saw the largest increase among beef products in June, up 12.4 percent since June 2024 at an unadjusted rate, followed by ground beef at 10.3 percent. This compares to a 0.5 percent increase for pork products and 3.9 percent for chicken.
These price pressures are due to several factors, both short- and long-term with shrinking cattle herds in the U.S. a leading cause.
"We're dealing with lower supplies of beef, and that's what's really driving up our prices of beef right now," Courtney Schmidt, a sector manager within Wells Fargo's Agri-Food Institute, told Axios.
involved in the TESA program.
DF: Yes, I think we were the first farm east of Ontario as far as I understand.
"This is a situation that's been developing for several years," Peel told Newsweek, adding that the droughts regions of the U.S. have faced since 2020 have pushed cattle numbers to their lowest levels in decades.
I’m not sure why the eastern associations wouldn’t have previously nominated anybody because there are many farms here on PEI doing every bit as much as we are as to attain a high level of sustainability. Anyway, we were very surprised when the PEI Cattleman’s Association nominated our farm.
CMB: And then you were attending the Canadian Beef conference in Calgary and you won.
Drought conditions, elevated grain prices, inflation and rising interest rates have significantly increased the cost of cattle farming in recent years, leading farmers to trim the size of their herds. According to the latest count from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), as of January 1, there were 86.7 million cattle and calves on U.S. farms, the smallest number since 1951.
DF: Yeah! That was a very nice moment for us. But I don’t like to use the word win actually. However, being recognized for our commitment was a real honour. If you want to know the truth, it was a pretty humbling experience. As I said to CBC when they phoned me after the conference, I was just floored, really couldn’t believe it.
CMB: So now that you have been recognized, do you think that will draw more attention and garner more nominations out of Atlantic Canada going forward?
Leaner supply has increased the market value of cows in the U.S., with cattle now selling for more than $200 per hundredweight, or 100 pounds, and calves going for almost $400. According to David Anderson, a livestock economist at Texas A&M who spoke with ABC News, this has led many ranchers to sell their cows now to lock in profits instead of keeping them for breeding, given prices may settle in the future. Peel said that because of the nature of the cattle industry, the issues of scarce inventory would take years of readjustment to fix.
Continued on Page 20
DF: Absolutely. We’ve gotten a lot of good press highlighting the island cattle industry. I’m positive you’ll see more farms in our neck of the woods nominated next year. And I have to give
"Once you get to a situation like this, where we don't have enough inventory to maintain production, the only way to fix it is to actually make that tight supply even tighter," he said. "Because in the cattle industry, they only have one offspring at a time. They have one calf at a time. And if that calf is a heifer, and you want to use her for breeding to rebuild the herd, then you have to not use her for beef production in the short run."
Aside from these long-term developments, an infestation of the flesh-eating parasites screwworms in Mexican herds prompted the USDA to suspend imports from the country from May until only weeks ago.
The prospect of new tariffs on countries the U.S. sources beef from also threatens to further raise prices in the U.S. Per the USDA, most of the U.S.'s beef imports come from Canada, Australia, Brazil, Mexico and New Zealand.
Canada and Mexico were two of the first nations to be subject to President Donald Trump's tariffs, which have been ramped up in recent days. Barring a major breakthrough in trade negotiations, they will likely see their beef subject to rates of upwards of 25 percent.
Brazil, meanwhile, was recently threatened with a blanket 50 percent tariff. In his announcement via Truth Social, Trump said the country had imposed unfair trading barriers that had left the economic relationship "far from reciprocal."
Patrick Montgomery, the CEO and a co-founder of the Kansas City Cattle Company, told Axios that the latest price increases were "just the tip of the iceberg."
He added: "Prices for beef will continue to be tumultuous for the next two to four years."
Derrell Peel, an agricultural economist, told Newsweek that the U.S. was at the "very, very early" stages of the herd-rebuilding process, and that it would be years before that translated into increased production and price moderation.
He added: "I anticipate that it's going to get tighter before it gets better, which probably means that prices will continue to go even a little higher than they are."
The USDA expects domestic beef production to be slower in the second half of the year, though beef imports are set to increase through 2025 and 2026.
SUCCESSION STANDSTILL: THE FUTURE OF FARMING IN CANADA
Canada is on the cusp of one of the largest transfers of business ownership in its history. According to the Canadian Federation of Independent Business (CFIB), over three-quarters (76%) of small business owners plan to exit their business within the next decade. This means more than $2 trillion in business assets could change hands by 2032 — and agriculture sits at the heart of this transition.
Let’s face it, it’s not just the cows that are getting older. The Royal Bank of Canada (RBC) reports that 40% of farm operators are expected to hang up their boots in the next 10 years. For small agri-businesses, this figure jumps to a staggering 66%. This mass exodus risks exacerbating chronic labour shortages that continue to plague the industry. The Canadian Agricultural Human Resource Council forecasts that 101,000 jobs will go unfilled by 2030, while CFIB’s most recent report on agri-food labour shortages reveals that nearly twothirds (63%) of agri-businesses could not get all the staffing they need.
Traditionally, it’s youth who take over as farm owners and operators retire. But despite historically high youth unemployment nationwide, the agriculture sector is struggling to attract the next generation. If jobs are available and youth are looking for work, why is it so difficult to bridge the gap?
Young Canadians face many barriers to entering the industry. Agricultural work is often physically demanding, concentrated in rural or remote areas, and characterized by long hours and seasonal fluctuations — not exactly a simple sell for individuals without prior exposure to the industry. Perhaps the most substantial barrier is financial: the capital required to acquire farmland and equipment, or to take over an existing agri-business, are major obstacles for youth. Without better supports in place, these obstacles may very well trigger a full-blown crisis of generational renewal with serious implications for Canada’s agriculture sector, food security, and the economy.
Despite the scale and urgency of the coming shift, business succession remains under-addressed. CFIB data reveals that only 14% of small business owners in the agriculture sector have a formal succession plan in place. The most common challenges? Finding a suitable buyer or successor (54%), business valuation (43%), and reliance on the owner for day-to-day operations (39%). In agriculture, where potential successors are already few and far between, these obstacles are even more pronounced.
Given that business owners tend to rely significantly on the sale of their business as a source of retirement income, any challenges encountered by owners looking to sell may not only be problematic to the business itself but to the wellbeing of the owner, their family, and the business they've worked hard to build.
To ensure a smooth leadership transition, business owners should begin succession planning early, seek professional advice, and involve potential successors in the process. CFIB offers various resources to assist small business owners in the development of their succession plans.
Governments also have critical roles to play in supporting generational renewal. This includes promoting careers in agriculture to youth through programs like Agri-Diversity, improving access to capital for aspiring farmers, and implementing tax measures to support the next generation of agri-business owners. For instance, government should implement the Lifetime Capital Gains Exemption limit increase to $1.25 million and the Canadian Entrepreneurs’ Incentive, as promised, to allow both retiring and up-and-coming business owners to successfully secure their future.
Without meaningful action to address the succession crisis, Canada risks not only losing decades of entrepreneurial knowledge and rural vitality but also weakening the foundations of our domestic food system when we can least afford it.
members) across every industry and region. CFIB is dedicated to increasing business owners’ chances of success by driving policy change at all levels of government, providing expert advice and tools, and negotiating exclusive savings. Learn more at cfib.ca.
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