News — Beef Prices

US allows beef imports from Paraguay despite pushback from ranchers Livestock producers are looking to overturn the rule, warning of potential food safety and trade risks. Sarah Zimmerman, Editor The U.S. will allow beef imports from Paraguay for the first time in 25 years as shrinking cattle herds raise domestic prices and limit supply. Beef exports from Paraguay were barred in 1997 due to concerns over the country’s meat inspection system and the potential spread of foot-and-mouth disease. Earlier this year, the U.S. Department of Agriculture said audits revealed safety standard improvements and ruled beef could safely be imported from the country under...

USDA remote beef-grading pilot uses smartphones to assess quality The new program reduces costs and location barriers for small, independent processors and ranchers. Published Jan. 26, 2024 By  Nathan Owens, Reporter The U.S. Department of Agriculture has begun a pilot program that allows processors in rural areas to grade beef remotely, a cost-effective approach that can help small packers reach new markets. In the program, trained plant employees can capture images of live animal and beef carcasses using their smartphones. The photos are then submitted to a website so USDA graders can review and assess remotely. The results are given within...