- Following one of the worst droughts in the United States since the 1950s, impacting Midwest corn crops in particular, prices on everything from food to diapers and plastics will dramatically increase.
- Following up on last week’s discussion on the tragi-comedy that has become Congress’ Farm Bill, the head of the USDA is requesting emergency funds to support farmers, particularly those hard-hit by the drought. They’ve received the support of the American Farm Bureau.
- After an internal memo went out to staff members of the US Department of Agriculture encouraging them to consider committing to a “Meatless Monday” to help reduce the environmental impact of consuming heavy amounts of meat, the GOP and the National Cattleman’s Association reacted harshly against the department. The USDA has since redacted the memo, claiming it was never officially vetted for internal distribution.
- Local farms and food artisans are turning to the internet to distribute directly to restaurant chefs and shop owners. In California, a small San Francisco start-up is also using the internet to sell directly to consumers.
- Pizza chains across the country are rallying to fight forthcoming FDA regulations requiring nutritional labeling on menus.
