A Chinese takeover of Smithfields? Monday, August 5, 2013 Last year was financially unkind to Smithfield Foods Inc., the largest pork producer in the United States. While full year sales were up a full percentage point to US$13.2 billion, net income was down to $183.8 million, nearly a 50 per cent drop from $361 million a year before.The company's press release said pork production was not a money maker last year because of higher feed costs and other inputs. Any pork producer could have told you that.No wonder shareholders were enthusiastic about Shuanghui International, the largest butcher in China, taking over Smithfield sometime in the next six months. Shuanghui was offering US$31 a share for Smithfield Foods stock, a 31 per cent premium over the previous trading price of $25.75. The sale requires federal government approval.Shareholders aren't the only ones wondering where this is going. Producers across North America wonder what it will mean if a firm from China, the largest pork consumer and producer in the world, acquires the Smithfield company, if indeed the sale is approved. Is this more pork going to China and away from North American markets, or what else might happen? BP Coping with the wild boar invasion Tennessee backs down on ag-gag law
Manitoba Produces Most of the Nation's Sunflower Crop Wednesday, July 29, 2026 With their bright yellow blooms and towering stalks, sunflowers are among the most recognizable crops in agriculture. While they are often associated with decorative gardens and summer tourism, sunflowers also represent an important commercial crop in Canada, supplying food, birdseed, and... Read this article online
10,000 Chickens Die After Break-In at Nova Scotia Poultry Barn Wednesday, July 29, 2026 A Nova Scotia poultry operation in Pine Grove is dealing with a devastating loss after a suspected break-in resulted in the deaths of approximately 10,000 chickens. According to investigators, the incident occurred at a poultry barn on Naugler Road in Pine Grove, located in Lunenburg... Read this article online
Manitoba Crops Advance Rapidly as Canola Flowers and Corn Nears Tasseling Wednesday, July 29, 2026 Manitoba producers are seeing crops advance quickly across much of the province as warm weather continues to drive development in cereals, oilseeds, soybeans, and forage crops. According to the Manitoba Crop Report for the week ending July 26, crops are generally progressing well,... Read this article online
Pre Harvest Glyphosate Timing Protects Crop Markets Wednesday, July 29, 2026 As harvest season approaches, growers are being reminded that proper timing is essential when applying pre-harvest glyphosate for weed control. Following recommended staging guidelines can help protect crop quality, reduce residue concerns, and support continued access to domestic and... Read this article online
Grain Safety is Literally a Matter of Life and Death Wednesday, July 29, 2026 The Canadian Agricultural Safety Association (CASA) is encouraging farmers, workers, and rural communities to make safety a priority during the sixth annualBeGrainSafeWeek, taking place from August 10 to 16. The awareness campaign is part of theBeGrainSafeprogram, which was launchedto... Read this article online