Sammy Bredar

Across processing operations, food safety strategies are becoming increasingly interconnected.

Restaurant chain Pokeworks explores how customization, ingredient quality and transparency are shaping fast-casual protein choices.

The Farm To You builds a direct-to-consumer platform centered on independent producers, curated meat boxes and regional supply chains.

Despite elevated prices, the beef category sees strong growth as consumers prioritize protein, perceived value, and convenience.

San Francisco processor reflects on hardwood smoking, traditional production methods and maintaining product identity across generations.

Research from Texas A&M and University of Illinois suggests protein quality influences how the body responds to exercise rather than total protein intake alone.

ADM says soy protein continues to gain momentum across both traditional meat applications and emerging plant-forward formats, driven by the need for cost efficiency, functionality and sensory performance.

Processors balance labor shortages, production demand, and SKU complexity with more targeted automation and AI-driven decision-making.

Roland Dickey Jr., CEO of Rancher's Premium Smokehouse, discusses the brand's growth strategy, consumer flavor preferences, retail expansion efforts and the role authenticity plays in product development.

Double-digit gains in claims-based meats highlight shifting consumer purchasing behaviors, with transparency, trust and convenient product formats driving momentum across retail and foodservice.