Electron-beam treatment shows a narrow quality window in ground poultry
A University of Arkansas study adds an important qualification to the discussion of non-thermal interventions for ground poultry: dose matters. The team examined commercially packaged ground chicken and turkey treated with electron beam (eBeam) doses of 3 and 4 kGy and compared them with untreated controls. The technology inactivates microorganisms by damaging DNA without heating the product.
Smart welfare systems must prove their value beyond the sensor
A review published in Sensors shifts the precision-livestock discussion from sensor availability to reliable deployment. It examines systems for capturing activity, feeding, respiration, thermal regulation and other indicators relevant to welfare and productivity. Its central message is not that data are lacking, but that turning them reliably into operational decisions remains difficult.
Weekly output rises, but US red-meat supply remains below last year
The latest USDA weekly report on federally inspected production shows that the US red-meat market is not moving uniformly. For the week ending August 29, estimated total output was 985.2 million pounds. Volume was 1.9% above the preceding week but 1.2% below the same period a year earlier. Year-to-date production was 2.5% lower than in 2025.
Reliable cattle payments are a core element of meat-chain integrity
A recent USDA complaint against an Oklahoma livestock dealer is a reminder that meat-chain integrity starts before slaughter. The agency alleges that Derek Ford, doing business as Ford Cattle, failed to make timely payment for 720 head purchased between June and October 2021. The investigation puts the total value at $412,700. The administrative complaint was filed in May 2025 and announced by USDA on August 26, 2026.
Raw pet-food recall underscores household hygiene risks from poultry
A US recall of raw pet food again highlights a sensitive point in animal-protein chains: microbiological risks do not end with meat intended for human consumption. Northwest Naturals voluntarily recalled two lots of frozen raw chicken recipes for dogs and cats because of possible contamination with Salmonella and Listeria monocytogenes. FDA published the announcement on August 28.
