Rabobank Report: Structural Changes Needed To Keep US Beef Industry Competitive

February 10, 2014 Rabobank Group

Rabobank has published a new report on the U.S. cattle industry, calling for changes in the way beef is produced in order for the industry to remain competitive. In the new report, “Ground Beef Nation,”, Rabobank says that changing consumer preferences and a production model tailored to production of top-shelf steaks has put the U.S. cattle industry in a position of losing market share to competitive proteins.

Rancho Feeding Recalls Nearly 8.8 Million Lbs. Of Beef Products

February 10, 2014 USDA FSIS

Rancho Feeding Corporation, a Petaluma, Calif. establishment, is recalling approximately 8,742,700 pounds, because it processed diseased and unsound animals and carried out these activities without the benefit or full benefit of federal inspection. Thus, the products are adulterated, because they are unsound, unwholesome or otherwise are unfit for human food and must be removed from commerce, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced.

Three New Varieties From PanAmerican Seed Receive All-America Selections Awards

February 10, 2014 PanAmerican Seed

PanAmerican Seed is pleased to announce acceptance of three 2014 All-America Selections Awards for the following varieties: Eggplant Patio Baby F1, Angelonia Serenita™ Pink, and Osteospermum Akila® Daisy White. These three wins are part of a record-breaking awards season for AAS, where the organization has bestowed a grand total of 19 winners for the 2014 gardening season – the most winners in one year since AAS’s establishment in the 1930s.

Business Blooming For Wichita Flower Wholesaler Valley Floral

February 10, 2014 Dan Voorhis, Wichita Eagle

That lovely red Valentine’s Day rose comes with its own supply chain. And for decades the flower wholesaler has served as the critical link between large out-of-state flower growers and the corner florist.

Four Star Greenhouse: Three Changes To Watch In 2014

Several years after the Recession of 2008, we’re still seeing fallout, but at the same time, we’re also seeing great opportunities for growers and retailers. Businesses that are able to adapt and act on these trends will be able to have stronger relationships with customers, higher profit margins and a better long-term position than those who don’t change with the times.