Agriculture News for the Week of Sept. 1, 2025

Global Food Prices Surge, Led by Meat and Vegetable Oils

World food prices rose sharply in August, reaching their highest level in more than two years, according to the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO). The increase was driven primarily by higher prices for meat and vegetable oils, reversing several months of mostly stable global trends.

The FAO’s Food Price Index, which tracks international prices of the most globally traded food commodities, rose 1.9% from July to August. Vegetable oils led the surge with a 7.6% month-on-month jump, attributed largely to renewed demand for palm oil and tightening sunflower oil supplies. Meat prices climbed 1.3%, reflecting firm import demand in East Asia and the Middle East.

Despite the spike in meat and oils, other major food categories remained relatively stable or saw slight declines. The cereal index, which includes wheat, corn, and rice, fell by 0.7% as global supplies improved with harvests in key producing regions. Dairy prices also edged down slightly, aided by strong export availability from Europe and New Zealand.

Analysts say the August rebound may reflect short-term volatility, but some components—particularly vegetable oil—are showing sustained upward pressure. Continued geopolitical uncertainty, shipping bottlenecks in the Red Sea region, and adverse weather conditions in parts of Southeast Asia are adding stress to supply chains. FAO economists noted that global markets remain vulnerable to small shocks due to tight inventories in key regions.

The FAO report serves as a bellwether for global food security discussions, especially in import-reliant developing nations where inflation is already straining household budgets. The agency emphasized the importance of monitoring energy prices and shipping costs, which both play a significant role in shaping food price trends.

Find the full story at Reuters.

EU Declares Brazil Bird Flu–Free, Easing Path for Chicken Exports

The European Union has officially recognized Brazil as free of bird flu, clearing the way for a resumption of Brazilian poultry exports to the EU following earlier restrictions imposed due to avian influenza outbreaks. The move was confirmed by Brazil’s Agriculture Minister this week and marks a significant shift in trade relations between the two regions.

Brazil had been under export limitations since bird flu cases were detected in its domestic poultry industry. Those outbreaks triggered stringent import barriers across multiple markets. Recognition by the EU removes those barriers, potentially unlocking a flood of Brazilian chicken into European supermarkets.

Brazil’s poultry industry, one of the largest in the world, stands to benefit from renewed access to high-demand markets. Preliminary figures show that chicken exports to the EU dropped by roughly 30% last year due to the restrictions. With the new bird flu status, industry groups are optimistic about regaining lost ground and securing additional volume for 2025 and beyond.

However, traders and health officials on both sides remain vigilant. While the EU’s animal health protocols now recognize Brazil’s clean status, realizing gains will depend on compliance with inspection standards at both ends. Logistics delays, currency fluctuations, and demand shifts may influence how quickly Brazilian chicken begins moving eastward again.

Find the full story at Reuters

Spotted Lanternfly Infestation Now Confirmed in 18 U.S. States

The invasive spotted lanternfly has spread to at least 18 states, according to data from Cornell’s Integrated Pest Management program and local agricultural officials. Since its first detection in Pennsylvania in 2014, the insect’s range now extends widely—particularly in New York, where the pest was first documented in Staten Island in 2020.

The spotted lanternfly feeds on more than 120 plant species, including grapes, maples, and apple trees. In New York, the state’s grape industry is estimated to be at risk of losing nearly $300 million annually due to crop damage and increased pesticide use. The pest's sticky excretions also promote sooty mold, which can further harm plant health.

Authorities across affected states have responded with surveillance, trapping, and quarantine efforts. In New York, inspecting vehicles, firewood, and outdoor equipment for egg masses has become mandatory when crossing zones. Residents continue to be urged to report sightings or signs of the insect to state agricultural agencies.

While some regions have seen fierce outbreaks, infestations in places like Pennsylvania appear to be stabilizing. Still, researchers stress the importance of public vigilance, noting that the species’ distribution often follows highways and human transport routes.

Find the full story at Times Union.

USDA Workforce Shrinks Amid Continued Layoffs and Restructuring

WASHINGTON—The U.S. Department of Agriculture is undergoing one of its largest workforce reductions in decades, with thousands of employees leaving the agency under voluntary buyout programs, layoffs, and ongoing regional restructuring efforts.

More than 15,000 USDA employees have departed since the beginning of the year, with a majority accepting early buyout offers designed to reduce federal headcount without formal firings. Many were granted full pay and benefits through September, delaying the visible impact of their absence but raising concerns about operational continuity. Staff losses have been reported across all major branches, including the Farm Service Agency, Natural Resources Conservation Service, and Agricultural Research Service.

Restructuring efforts have added further disruption. Key offices in Washington are being closed or downsized, with workers relocated to regional centers in cities like Kansas City, Raleigh, Fort Collins, and Salt Lake City. These moves have prompted internal pushback and raised fears about the department’s ability to retain top scientific talent and deliver timely field support. Some facilities, including the historic Beltsville Agricultural Research Center, are slated for consolidation.

Critical disease monitoring and animal health programs have also seen staffing reductions. With the recent surge in bird flu and other livestock threats, state officials have flagged growing delays in lab results, coordination efforts, and communications with USDA veterinary teams. The losses have prompted bipartisan concern from congressional agriculture committees.

The impact of these cuts is expected to be long-term, with farm groups, researchers, and state partners all citing diminished capacity. As the agency continues its transition, questions remain about how effectively it can serve producers, manage emergencies, and maintain the scientific infrastructure on which U.S. agriculture depends.

Find the full story at Politico.

Huron County Farm Bureau Hosts Project R.E.D. for Local Third-Graders

The Huron County Farm Bureau hosted its annual Project R.E.D. (Rural Education Day) on September 9 at the Huron Community Fairgrounds, drawing nearly 500 third-grade students for an immersive, hands-on dive into agriculture, food systems, and the natural environment.

From 9:40 a.m. to 1:40 p.m., students rotated through 10 to 12 engaging stations focused on activities like crop planting, soil exploration, commodity demonstrations, and machinery operations. Agriculture instructors from Huron County’s FFA chapters took part in leading each session, guiding students and providing peer-level context to concepts.

“Kids don’t realize where their food comes from,” said Project R.E.D. coordinator Stephanie Krohn. “They don’t understand that without agriculture, we wouldn’t be able to eat—or have what keeps us alive.” Her comment encapsulates the core mission of the day: to establish foundational agricultural awareness among young learners.

The event’s success was due in part to strong community coordination. Local schools, volunteers, businesses, and the Farm Bureau joined forces, ensuring the event ran smoothly and remained meaningful. Teachers noted that many students continue to recall earlier years of participation, underscoring the program’s lasting impression.

Find the full story at The Huron Daily Tribune