The International Food Information Council’s annual food trends forecast predicts consumers will focus more on label claims this year.

The report suggests the industry should expect a heightened emphasis on transparent food labeling, empowering shoppers to make informed decisions about the foods and beverages they consume. Labels such as clean, cold-pressed, and fermented, which consumers associate with healthfulness, will continue to be at the forefront. Actions by the Food and Drug Administration are bringing Americans closer to an updated definition of a “healthy” food.

As far as consumers are concerned, the most common attributes they believe define a healthy food are fresh, low in sugar and good source of protein. IFIC’s Kris Sollid says, “Front-of-Package nutrition labeling will be a major focus in 2024 as U.S. food regulators roll out a new labeling proposal to help shoppers make easier, quicker, and healthier food decisions.”

The International Food Information Council’s annual food trends forecast predicts consumers will focus more on label claims this year.The report suggests the industry should expect a heightened emphasis on transparent food labeling, empowering shoppers to make informed decisions about the foods and beverages they consume. Labels such as clean, cold-pressed, and fermented, which consumers associate with healthfulness, will continue to be at the forefront. Actions by the Food and Drug Administration are bringing Americans closer to an updated definition of a “healthy” food.As far as consumers are concerned, the most common attributes they believe define a healthy food are fresh, low in sugar and good source of protein. IFIC’s Kris Sollid says, “Front-of-Package nutrition labeling will be a major focus in 2024 as U.S. food regulators roll out a new labeling proposal to help shoppers make easier, quicker, and healthier food decisions.”-NAFB

Consumers to Focus on Labels in 2024

The 8th Circuit Court unanimously overruled a District Court and upheld Iowa’s 2019 and 2021 agriculture trespass laws as constitutional this week.

After several organizations challenged the new law, the district court concluded that the intent requirement renders the law “viewpoint-based” and unconstitutional under the First Amendment. In the ruling, the 8th Circuit Court said, “We respectfully disagree, and therefore reverse.” The lawsuit was filed by groups including the Animal Legal Defense Fund and the Center for Food Safety, among others.

Iowa Agriculture Secretary Mike Naig responded, “The Legislature and Gov. Reynolds enacted these laws to safeguard our ag community and protect our food security. It is welcome news that Iowa producers can now be protected from trespassers and it sends a clear message to those who maliciously target our livestock farms.” Critics described the laws as “ag-gag” laws, seeking to criminalize efforts to access and secretly record alleged animal abuse on farms.

The 8th Circuit Court unanimously overruled a District Court and upheld Iowa’s 2019 and 2021 agriculture trespass laws as constitutional this week.After several organizations challenged the new law, the district court concluded that the intent requirement renders the law “viewpoint-based” and unconstitutional under the First Amendment. In the ruling, the 8th Circuit Court said, “We respectfully disagree, and therefore reverse.” The lawsuit was filed by groups including the Animal Legal Defense Fund and the Center for Food Safety, among others.Iowa Agriculture Secretary Mike Naig responded, “The Legislature and Gov. Reynolds enacted these laws to safeguard our ag community and protect our food security. It is welcome news that Iowa producers can now be protected from trespassers and it sends a clear message to those who maliciously target our livestock farms.” Critics described the laws as “ag-gag” laws, seeking to criminalize efforts to access and secretly record alleged animal abuse on farms.-NAFB

Court Upholds Iowa Agriculture Trespass Laws

Adults in U.S. households that are less food secure are significantly more likely to have one or more chronic diseases, and the likelihood increases as food insecurity worsens.

Researchers with the Economic Research Service looked at the rate of five chronic diseases across four levels of household food security, ranging from high food security to very low food security. High food security households have no problems or anxiety about consistently obtaining adequate food. Very low food-secure households feature eating patterns of one or more household members that got disrupted and reduced their food intake.

From 2019-2022, the predicted illness prevalence among the five chronic diseases examined was 3.6 to 9.5 percentage points higher for adults in very low food-secure households compared to those with high food-secure households. For example, hypertension was found in 36 percent of very low food secure households, showing that food security status and health are closely linked.

Adults in U.S. households that are less food secure are significantly more likely to have one or more chronic diseases, and the likelihood increases as food insecurity worsens.Researchers with the Economic Research Service looked at the rate of five chronic diseases across four levels of household food security, ranging from high food security to very low food security. High food security households have no problems or anxiety about consistently obtaining adequate food. Very low food-secure households feature eating patterns of one or more household members that got disrupted and reduced their food intake.From 2019-2022, the predicted illness prevalence among the five chronic diseases examined was 3.6 to 9.5 percentage points higher for adults in very low food-secure households compared to those with high food-secure households. For example, hypertension was found in 36 percent of very low food secure households, showing that food security status and health are closely linked.-NAFB

USDA: Chronic Disease Linked to Food Security

For the second straight week, GasBuddy says the nation’s average price of gasoline has declined, falling 3.8 cents from a week ago to $3.03 per gallon.

“Sluggish gasoline demand has led to the national average easing again and brings back the potential for the national average to drift under $3 per gallon for the first time since 2021,” says Patrick DeHaan of GasBuddy. “With a record rise in gasoline inventories last week as demand was anemic during the holidays, motorists have provided the catalyst for falling prices.” He also says if demand remains weak, it’s possible gasoline prices could fall further.

In addition, refinery issues in California have also eased, which will soon cause prices to decline in California, Nevada, and Arizona, possibly providing momentum for a $2.99 national average. However, the better it gets now, the sharper the rise could be ahead of spring, as prices could start rising by mid-February.

For the second straight week, GasBuddy says the nation’s average price of gasoline has declined, falling 3.8 cents from a week ago to $3.03 per gallon.“Sluggish gasoline demand has led to the national average easing again and brings back the potential for the national average to drift under $3 per gallon for the first time since 2021,” says Patrick DeHaan of GasBuddy. “With a record rise in gasoline inventories last week as demand was anemic during the holidays, motorists have provided the catalyst for falling prices.” He also says if demand remains weak, it’s possible gasoline prices could fall further.In addition, refinery issues in California have also eased, which will soon cause prices to decline in California, Nevada, and Arizona, possibly providing momentum for a $2.99 national average. However, the better it gets now, the sharper the rise could be ahead of spring, as prices could start rising by mid-February.-NAFB

Fuel Prices Continue New Year Declines

The USDA’s Foreign Agricultural Service is awarding more than $200 million to nearly 70 agricultural organizations to help expand export markets for U.S. food and agricultural products. The expansion efforts will happen through the Market Access Program and the Foreign Market Development Program. 

“Over the year, we’ve seen the tremendous impact both MAP and FMD have on expanding U.S. exports to markets around the world,” says FAS Administrator Daniel Whitley. “For each dollar invested in export market development, U.S. agricultural exports have increased by more than $24.” He calls these programs a “significant boost to the agricultural industry,” which, in turn, helps strengthen the economies of communities across the entire United States. 

Through MAP, FAS will provide $174.3 million for fiscal year 2024 to 68 nonprofit organizations and cooperatives. Under FMD, FAS will allocate $27 million to 20 trade organizations that represent American agricultural producers. To learn more, visit fas.usda.gov.

The USDA’s Foreign Agricultural Service is awarding more than $200 million to nearly 70 agricultural organizations to help expand export markets for U.S. food and agricultural products. The expansion efforts will happen through the Market Access Program and the Foreign Market Development Program. “Over the year, we’ve seen the tremendous impact both MAP and FMD have on expanding U.S. exports to markets around the world,” says FAS Administrator Daniel Whitley. “For each dollar invested in export market development, U.S. agricultural exports have increased by more than $24.” He calls these programs a “significant boost to the agricultural industry,” which, in turn, helps strengthen the economies of communities across the entire United States. Through MAP, FAS will provide $174.3 million for fiscal year 2024 to 68 nonprofit organizations and cooperatives. Under FMD, FAS will allocate $27 million to 20 trade organizations that represent American agricultural producers. To learn more, visit fas.usda.gov.-NAFB

USDA Announces Market Development Program Investments for Fiscal Year 2024

One-fourth of America’s bird flu losses during outbreaks beginning in early 2022 were recorded during the final quarter of 2023.

USDA data says that’s when the disease staged a resurgence. Approximately 20.9 million birds were culled in infected domestic flocks from October through December to prevent the spread of highly pathogenic avian influenza. Successful Farming says bird flu hit egg farmers so hard that prices in 2022 soared 32 percent above the average in 2021.

That’s the largest increase for any food categories USDA tracked during a year of high food inflation. As flocks got rebuilt, egg prices rose marginally in 2023 and are expected to fall 12 percent this year. A total of 79.7 million domestic birds, mostly egg-laying hens and turkeys being raised for human consumption, died in HPAI outbreaks or eradication efforts since February 2022.

Since then, the disease has been confirmed in 1,059 flocks in 47 states.

One-fourth of America’s bird flu losses during outbreaks beginning in early 2022 were recorded during the final quarter of 2023.USDA data says that’s when the disease staged a resurgence. Approximately 20.9 million birds were culled in infected domestic flocks from October through December to prevent the spread of highly pathogenic avian influenza. Successful Farming says bird flu hit egg farmers so hard that prices in 2022 soared 32 percent above the average in 2021.That’s the largest increase for any food categories USDA tracked during a year of high food inflation. As flocks got rebuilt, egg prices rose marginally in 2023 and are expected to fall 12 percent this year. A total of 79.7 million domestic birds, mostly egg-laying hens and turkeys being raised for human consumption, died in HPAI outbreaks or eradication efforts since February 2022.Since then, the disease has been confirmed in 1,059 flocks in 47 states.-NAFB

Millions of Birds Die During Two Years of Bird Flu

The Midwest Climate Hub says warm and dry was the theme during December in the North Central U.S. There have been exceptions, including a Christmas system that dropped multiple inches of precipitation in certain areas.

The region saw both one and two-class improvements and degradations in drought status, and concerns are starting to weigh heavily on whether soil moisture will be recharged this winter. The next three to five months are expected to follow a typical El Niño weather pattern overall. That means temperatures will lean warmer for the region, and conditions will be drier for the northern and eastern states in the Midwest.

It’s about the 180th week of D1 drought in parts of Iowa, which is the longest stretch since the 1950s. Exceptional drought continues in southeast Nebraska, with some places in exceptional drought for the past five months. Temps have been above normal for the last 30 days. &nbsp;

The Midwest Climate Hub says warm and dry was the theme during December in the North Central U.S. There have been exceptions, including a Christmas system that dropped multiple inches of precipitation in certain areas.The region saw both one and two-class improvements and degradations in drought status, and concerns are starting to weigh heavily on whether soil moisture will be recharged this winter. The next three to five months are expected to follow a typical El Niño weather pattern overall. That means temperatures will lean warmer for the region, and conditions will be drier for the northern and eastern states in the Midwest.It’s about the 180th week of D1 drought in parts of Iowa, which is the longest stretch since the 1950s. Exceptional drought continues in southeast Nebraska, with some places in exceptional drought for the past five months. Temps have been above normal for the last 30 days. &nbsp;-NAFB

Midwest Weather Staying Warmer and Drier Than Normal

The U.N.’s Food and Agricultural Organization says world food prices dropped in December. 

The Food Price Index, which tracks monthly changes in the prices of globally traded commodities, averaged 188.5 points in December, down 1.5 percent from November and 10 percent lower than December 2022. For 2023, the index was 13.7 percent lower than the average value of 2022, with only the international sugar price index higher during the period. The Cereal Price Index rose 1.5 percent from November, but the yearly index was 15 percent below 2022. 

The Vegetable Oil Price Index dropped 1.4 percent from November, and for the year was 33 percent below 2022. The Sugar Price Index dropped 17 percent from November, but still finished 15 percent higher than December 2022. The Meat Price Index dropped one percent from November, hitting a level of two percent below December 2022. The Dairy Index rose 1.6 percent from November.

The U.N.’s Food and Agricultural Organization says world food prices dropped in December. The Food Price Index, which tracks monthly changes in the prices of globally traded commodities, averaged 188.5 points in December, down 1.5 percent from November and 10 percent lower than December 2022. For 2023, the index was 13.7 percent lower than the average value of 2022, with only the international sugar price index higher during the period. The Cereal Price Index rose 1.5 percent from November, but the yearly index was 15 percent below 2022. The Vegetable Oil Price Index dropped 1.4 percent from November, and for the year was 33 percent below 2022. The Sugar Price Index dropped 17 percent from November, but still finished 15 percent higher than December 2022. The Meat Price Index dropped one percent from November, hitting a level of two percent below December 2022. The Dairy Index rose 1.6 percent from November.-NAFB

Food Price Index Drops in December

The USDA’s Risk Management Agency announced that $3 million is available for cooperative growth agreements to educate underserved, small-scale, and organic producers on risk management. 

The educational opportunities can also include climate-smart practices. RMA’s Risk Management Education Partnerships provide funding for organizations like non-profits and land grant universities to develop training and resources for producers about risk management options like crop insurance. “This funding is integral to our outreach efforts in communities that historically have not had access to training about risk management options,” says RMA Administrator Marcia Bunger. “As a farmer, I know first-hand that agriculture is a risky business.” 

Bunger also says they want to work directly with growers and livestock producers to provide them with training and resources about risk management options and applying them to the farming business. A broad range of risk management activities are eligible for funding consideration, including training on crop insurance options and others.

The USDA’s Risk Management Agency announced that $3 million is available for cooperative growth agreements to educate underserved, small-scale, and organic producers on risk management. The educational opportunities can also include climate-smart practices. RMA’s Risk Management Education Partnerships provide funding for organizations like non-profits and land grant universities to develop training and resources for producers about risk management options like crop insurance. “This funding is integral to our outreach efforts in communities that historically have not had access to training about risk management options,” says RMA Administrator Marcia Bunger. “As a farmer, I know first-hand that agriculture is a risky business.” Bunger also says they want to work directly with growers and livestock producers to provide them with training and resources about risk management options and applying them to the farming business. A broad range of risk management activities are eligible for funding consideration, including training on crop insurance options and others.- NAFB

USDA investments in risk-management training

A USDA report says December weather was a mixed bag for winter wheat producers. Timely precipitation in major wheat-growing states like Kansas, Colorado, Oklahoma, and Arkansas boosted the crop. 

In Kansas, the top-producing state, about 43 percent of the hard-red crop was in good or excellent condition in December. Thirty-six percent was in fair condition, with the rest poor to very poor. An average of 2.7 inches of rain fell in Oklahoma last month, with more than three inches in west central counties. 

While no condition report was available, 22 percent of the state was suffering from drought, down from 47 percent three months earlier and 90 percent a year ago. In Colorado, 61 percent of the winter wheat crop was in good or excellent condition, up from 50 percent last year. In Arkansas, where soft-red winter wheat is grown, topsoil moisture was 69 percent surplus and 26 percent was adequate.

A USDA report says December weather was a mixed bag for winter wheat producers. Timely precipitation in major wheat-growing states like Kansas, Colorado, Oklahoma, and Arkansas boosted the crop. In Kansas, the top-producing state, about 43 percent of the hard-red crop was in good or excellent condition in December. Thirty-six percent was in fair condition, with the rest poor to very poor. An average of 2.7 inches of rain fell in Oklahoma last month, with more than three inches in west central counties. While no condition report was available, 22 percent of the state was suffering from drought, down from 47 percent three months earlier and 90 percent a year ago. In Colorado, 61 percent of the winter wheat crop was in good or excellent condition, up from 50 percent last year. In Arkansas, where soft-red winter wheat is grown, topsoil moisture was 69 percent surplus and 26 percent was adequate.- NAFB

Weather mixed in winter wheat country

Missouri Governor Mike Parson announced a ban on agricultural land purchases by citizens and businesses from six nations if the property is within ten miles of critical military facilities. Parson says he had countries like “China and other adversarial nations” in mind when issuing an executive order on the topic. 

The order puts the state Ag Department in charge of reviewing all proposed purchases of farmland by foreigners The Ag Department is to deny all proposed purchases within ten miles of military facilities by entities from China, Russia, Iran, North Korea, Cuba, and Venezuela. 

Missouri is the latest state to restrict foreign ownership of U.S. farmland amid rising international tensions. Arkansas recently ordered Syngenta, owned by ChemChina, to sell a 160-acre research farm. Foreign investors own 43.4 million acres, or 3.4 percent of privately-held agricultural land, which includes 474,000 acres in Missouri. The executive order doesn’t affect existing farmland ownership.

Missouri Governor Mike Parson announced a ban on agricultural land purchases by citizens and businesses from six nations if the property is within ten miles of critical military facilities. Parson says he had countries like “China and other adversarial nations” in mind when issuing an executive order on the topic. The order puts the state Ag Department in charge of reviewing all proposed purchases of farmland by foreigners The Ag Department is to deny all proposed purchases within ten miles of military facilities by entities from China, Russia, Iran, North Korea, Cuba, and Venezuela. Missouri is the latest state to restrict foreign ownership of U.S. farmland amid rising international tensions. Arkansas recently ordered Syngenta, owned by ChemChina, to sell a 160-acre research farm. Foreign investors own 43.4 million acres, or 3.4 percent of privately-held agricultural land, which includes 474,000 acres in Missouri. The executive order doesn’t affect existing farmland ownership.- NAFB

Missouri bans foreign ownership of some farmland

An agronomist for a major agricultural chemical company
advises farmers to stick to a plan going into this growing season and to resist
the temptation to out-guess the weather.

Leon Hunter is Syngenta’s agronomy manager for the eastern
corn belt. Hunter says 2023 proved to be a bad environment for crops due to the
widespread drought.

“I think as we start looking at the fall of ’23, we saw a lot
of weed in the fields. And, I think the seed bank has been replenished,” Hunter
tells KFEQ, adding farmers need to start making a plan for 2024. “And look at a
holistic plan, not looking at just what happened in ’23, but maybe managing
each field based on what they saw at harvest as it relates to weeds, and/or
diseases, or insects as well.”

Hunter acknowledges the weather can produce anxiety for
farmers, but insists there is opportunity as well.

“Typically, when we get to that level of anxiety, we starting thinking
about, ‘Where can I save? How can I cut back?’” Hunter says, “And maybe it’s in
those times that we should really look at investing in the crop and doing everything
we can to produce more bushels so we can get higher yields and higher returns.”

Hunter reminds farmers they developed their plan for the
upcoming year based on solid information. Though things change and challenges
crop up, that plan can guide them to success in 2024.

“Plan it. And when you plan it, stick to your plan, because
you made that decision on that plan for a reason,” Hunter says. “It was the
right thing to do regardless of the environment. You know there are other
benefits from fungicides.”

Hunter says tar spot disease has greatly affected corn yields.
It was discovered late and has caused devastating losses. He says Syngenta and
other herbicide producers have products that can help.

You can follow Brent on X @GBrentKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1704395140868.jpeg" alt="File photo" />
 <figcaption>File photo</figcaption>
 </figure> By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostAn agronomist for a major agricultural chemical company
advises farmers to stick to a plan going into this growing season and to resist
the temptation to out-guess the weather.Leon Hunter is Syngenta’s agronomy manager for the eastern
corn belt. Hunter says 2023 proved to be a bad environment for crops due to the
widespread drought.“I think as we start looking at the fall of ’23, we saw a lot
of weed in the fields. And, I think the seed bank has been replenished,” Hunter
tells KFEQ, adding farmers need to start making a plan for 2024. “And look at a
holistic plan, not looking at just what happened in ’23, but maybe managing
each field based on what they saw at harvest as it relates to weeds, and/or
diseases, or insects as well.”Hunter acknowledges the weather can produce anxiety for
farmers, but insists there is opportunity as well.“Typically, when we get to that level of anxiety, we starting thinking
about, ‘Where can I save? How can I cut back?’” Hunter says, “And maybe it’s in
those times that we should really look at investing in the crop and doing everything
we can to produce more bushels so we can get higher yields and higher returns.”Hunter reminds farmers they developed their plan for the
upcoming year based on solid information. Though things change and challenges
crop up, that plan can guide them to success in 2024.“Plan it. And when you plan it, stick to your plan, because
you made that decision on that plan for a reason,” Hunter says. “It was the
right thing to do regardless of the environment. You know there are other
benefits from fungicides.”Hunter says tar spot disease has greatly affected corn yields.
It was discovered late and has caused devastating losses. He says Syngenta and
other herbicide producers have products that can help.You can follow Brent on X @GBrentKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Syngenta agronomist urges farmers to stick to a plan for 2024

Military veterans interested in agriculture are invited to attend a series of on-farm and virtual workshops highlighting farm stores, onsite and off. The course is free for active military service members and military veterans. 

Hosted by the Center for Rural Affairs, the 11-session series, “Agritourism through Farm Stores,” starts February 19 and runs through August. The workshops will rotate between online classroom sessions and on-farm sessions with an online option. Kirstin Bailey, senior project associate for the Center, says, "During the on-farm sessions, experienced farmers will go through the ins and outs of on- and off-site farm stores, how they set up their on-farm buying experiences, and challenges they have faced." 

Session topics include obtaining proper equipment, maintaining adequate facilities, setting up purchasing systems, and more. Farmer-leaders with experience in various types of agriculture and agritourism, such as poultry, pork, beef, and beekeeping, will be available to assist participants throughout the course's online platform. Find a detailed schedule, including dates and times of sessions,&nbsp;<a href="file:///C:/Users/midcl/Downloads/cfra.org/AgVets2024.">online</a>.

Military veterans interested in agriculture are invited to attend a series of on-farm and virtual workshops highlighting farm stores, onsite and off. The course is free for active military service members and military veterans. Hosted by the Center for Rural Affairs, the 11-session series, “Agritourism through Farm Stores,” starts February 19 and runs through August. The workshops will rotate between online classroom sessions and on-farm sessions with an online option. Kirstin Bailey, senior project associate for the Center, says, "During the on-farm sessions, experienced farmers will go through the ins and outs of on- and off-site farm stores, how they set up their on-farm buying experiences, and challenges they have faced." Session topics include obtaining proper equipment, maintaining adequate facilities, setting up purchasing systems, and more. Farmer-leaders with experience in various types of agriculture and agritourism, such as poultry, pork, beef, and beekeeping, will be available to assist participants throughout the course's online platform. Find a detailed schedule, including dates and times of sessions,&nbsp;<a href="file:///C:/Users/midcl/Downloads/cfra.org/AgVets2024.">online</a>.- NAFB

Workshop series for veterans focuses on agritourism

Demand for organic cotton in the U.S. is growing, but imports continue to pick up the slack of inadequate domestic production. A new project led by Texas A&amp;M AgriLife Research aims to turn the situation around by identifying the challenges and opportunities for U.S. organic cotton growers. 

The study, Fostering Sustainable Organic Cotton Production in the U.S. Through Research and Outreach on Organic Regenerative Practices, is funded by a $3.5 million U.S. Department of Agriculture National Institute of Food and Agriculture grant. Researchers expect the study to help U.S. organic cotton producers determine how to improve yields, productivity, and sustainability in their existing fields and transition more acreage into organic production. 

Organizers say, "We want to understand what their production challenges are, how they are managing them, what works and what doesn't, and how their practices are impacting the soil and output long-term."&nbsp; With no synthetic herbicides allowed, the project will identify other methods that might minimize the tillage needed for weed control.

Demand for organic cotton in the U.S. is growing, but imports continue to pick up the slack of inadequate domestic production. A new project led by Texas A&amp;M AgriLife Research aims to turn the situation around by identifying the challenges and opportunities for U.S. organic cotton growers. The study, Fostering Sustainable Organic Cotton Production in the U.S. Through Research and Outreach on Organic Regenerative Practices, is funded by a $3.5 million U.S. Department of Agriculture National Institute of Food and Agriculture grant. Researchers expect the study to help U.S. organic cotton producers determine how to improve yields, productivity, and sustainability in their existing fields and transition more acreage into organic production. Organizers say, "We want to understand what their production challenges are, how they are managing them, what works and what doesn't, and how their practices are impacting the soil and output long-term."&nbsp; With no synthetic herbicides allowed, the project will identify other methods that might minimize the tillage needed for weed control.- NAFB

U.S. demand for organic cotton growing

Grain futures ended 2023 significantly in the red, with corn futures suffering their biggest yearly drop in a decade, according to a new analysis by the University of Illinois' Farm Policy website. 

Wheat and soybeans also posted steep declines in 2024 following bumper harvests in Brazil and resilient Black Sea trade. The most active corn contract was down 31 percent in 2023, while wheat was down 21 percent, and soybeans were down 15 percent. Mike Zuzolo, president of Global Commodity Analytics, adds, "In 2024, producers are going to be a lot more concerned about their input costs, and that is where beans play a much better role for them." 

The Department of Agriculture also expects soybean acres to increase in 2024, with the November World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates report predicting that U.S. farmers will plant 87 million acres of soybeans in 2024, an increase of 3.4 million acres. Corn acres are expected to be 91 million acres, a decrease of 3.9 million acres, according to the USDA.

Grain futures ended 2023 significantly in the red, with corn futures suffering their biggest yearly drop in a decade, according to a new analysis by the University of Illinois' Farm Policy website. Wheat and soybeans also posted steep declines in 2024 following bumper harvests in Brazil and resilient Black Sea trade. The most active corn contract was down 31 percent in 2023, while wheat was down 21 percent, and soybeans were down 15 percent. Mike Zuzolo, president of Global Commodity Analytics, adds, "In 2024, producers are going to be a lot more concerned about their input costs, and that is where beans play a much better role for them." The Department of Agriculture also expects soybean acres to increase in 2024, with the November World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates report predicting that U.S. farmers will plant 87 million acres of soybeans in 2024, an increase of 3.4 million acres. Corn acres are expected to be 91 million acres, a decrease of 3.9 million acres, according to the USDA.- NAFB

Analysis: corn futures fall more than 30% in 2023

New data from USDA's Economic Research Service shows Genetically engineered crops dominate the U.S. agriculture sector. Genetically engineered seeds were commercially introduced in the United States for major field crops in 1996, with adoption rates increasing rapidly in the following years.

 The two main GE trait types are herbicide-tolerant and insect-resistant. USDA reports information on GE crops in the data product Adoption of Genetically Engineered Crops in the United States. The data shows that by 2008, more than 50 percent of corn, cotton, and soybean acres were planted with at least one GE seed trait. 

Today, more than 90 percent of those acres are planted using at least one GE trait. Other traits have been developed, including resistance to viruses, fungi, and drought or enhanced protein, oil, or vitamin content. While herbicide-tolerant seeds are also widely used in alfalfa, canola, and sugar beet production, most GE acres are occupied by three major field crops: corn, cotton, and soybeans.

New data from USDA's Economic Research Service shows Genetically engineered crops dominate the U.S. agriculture sector. Genetically engineered seeds were commercially introduced in the United States for major field crops in 1996, with adoption rates increasing rapidly in the following years. The two main GE trait types are herbicide-tolerant and insect-resistant. USDA reports information on GE crops in the data product Adoption of Genetically Engineered Crops in the United States. The data shows that by 2008, more than 50 percent of corn, cotton, and soybean acres were planted with at least one GE seed trait. Today, more than 90 percent of those acres are planted using at least one GE trait. Other traits have been developed, including resistance to viruses, fungi, and drought or enhanced protein, oil, or vitamin content. While herbicide-tolerant seeds are also widely used in alfalfa, canola, and sugar beet production, most GE acres are occupied by three major field crops: corn, cotton, and soybeans.- NAFB

GE Crops dominate U.S. soybean, cotton, and corn acres

The Waters of the U.S. rule rewrite topped the list of agricultural issues for the National Agricultural Law Center in 2023. 

While WOTUS was the top issue for 2024, California’s Proposition 12 came in second, with the one-year Farm Bill extension third. The organization listed EPA’s rollout of the Endangered Species Protection Program and the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act fourth. Other top issues include the Arkansas foreign ownership of land restrictions, competition in the livestock sector and water use from the Colorado River. Right to repair gained traction as farmers continued to advocate for the right to access manufacturer-controlled tools and information. 

The list rounds out with growth in the industrial hemp sector and civil litigation over pesticides, such as glyphosate exposure. The organization expects corporate transparency rules requiring disclosure of ownership interests in companies, proposed H-2A changes and a myriad of issues before the Supreme Court as ones to watch for 2024.

The Waters of the U.S. rule rewrite topped the list of agricultural issues for the National Agricultural Law Center in 2023. While WOTUS was the top issue for 2024, California’s Proposition 12 came in second, with the one-year Farm Bill extension third. The organization listed EPA’s rollout of the Endangered Species Protection Program and the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act fourth. Other top issues include the Arkansas foreign ownership of land restrictions, competition in the livestock sector and water use from the Colorado River. Right to repair gained traction as farmers continued to advocate for the right to access manufacturer-controlled tools and information. The list rounds out with growth in the industrial hemp sector and civil litigation over pesticides, such as glyphosate exposure. The organization expects corporate transparency rules requiring disclosure of ownership interests in companies, proposed H-2A changes and a myriad of issues before the Supreme Court as ones to watch for 2024.- NAFB

National Agricultural Law Center recaps top 2023 issues

Farmer sentiment changed very little in December compared to the preceding month. The Purdue University-CME Group Ag Economy Barometer recorded a reading of 114, just one point lower than a month earlier. 

Both sub-indices of the barometer, the Index of Current Conditions and the Index of Future Expectations, also fell one point below their respective November readings. The Current Conditions Index for December was 112, while the Future Expectations Index was 115. All three indices were weaker than in December 2022, with the barometer falling ten percent below a year earlier. 

Farmers still pointed to input costs at year-end as their top concern for the year ahead, but the percentage of farmers choosing the risk of lower crop and/or livestock prices rose from just 16 percent in January to 26 percent in December. Inflation expectations among farmers moderated during 2023. Compared to a year earlier, far fewer producers expect inflation to exceed six percent in the new year, and a large majority look for inflation to average less than four percent in 2024.

Farmer sentiment changed very little in December compared to the preceding month. The Purdue University-CME Group Ag Economy Barometer recorded a reading of 114, just one point lower than a month earlier. Both sub-indices of the barometer, the Index of Current Conditions and the Index of Future Expectations, also fell one point below their respective November readings. The Current Conditions Index for December was 112, while the Future Expectations Index was 115. All three indices were weaker than in December 2022, with the barometer falling ten percent below a year earlier. Farmers still pointed to input costs at year-end as their top concern for the year ahead, but the percentage of farmers choosing the risk of lower crop and/or livestock prices rose from just 16 percent in January to 26 percent in December. Inflation expectations among farmers moderated during 2023. Compared to a year earlier, far fewer producers expect inflation to exceed six percent in the new year, and a large majority look for inflation to average less than four percent in 2024.- NAFB

U.S. farmer sentiment stable as inflation expectations subside

As agriculture looks to 2024, AgriThority, a Kansas City company, put together its top ten trends for the new year.

The company is seeing some consistency from prior years but some emerging trends as well. The first is a push for more biologicals and biostimulants, comparing them to what seed treatments were in the 1990s. The biostimulant market should reach $6.8 billion by 2028. They say climate-smart farming will get smarter as measurements behind the carbon market continue maturing. AgriThority says precision ag will continue evolving with the onset of AI.

They do note that regulations are not evolving at the same rate as innovation in agriculture. The company’s top ten also says sustainability isn’t going away, plus soil health will continue evolving. Artificial intelligence will likely be more present in agriculture next year. They call 2024 a “shakeout year” as companies will make moves for the future as competition increases.

As agriculture looks to 2024, AgriThority, a Kansas City company, put together its top ten trends for the new year.The company is seeing some consistency from prior years but some emerging trends as well. The first is a push for more biologicals and biostimulants, comparing them to what seed treatments were in the 1990s. The biostimulant market should reach $6.8 billion by 2028. They say climate-smart farming will get smarter as measurements behind the carbon market continue maturing. AgriThority says precision ag will continue evolving with the onset of AI.They do note that regulations are not evolving at the same rate as innovation in agriculture. The company’s top ten also says sustainability isn’t going away, plus soil health will continue evolving. Artificial intelligence will likely be more present in agriculture next year. They call 2024 a “shakeout year” as companies will make moves for the future as competition increases.-NAFB

New Year’s Ag Innovation Trends

Geopolitical factors, elections, and many other surprises await the agricultural economy in 2024.

Farm Journal and Purdue University’s December Economists’ Monthly Monitor shows views slightly more optimistic than they were a month ago. The economists talked about what unexpected news headlines they wouldn’t be surprised to see in 2024. The responses include China falling into a big recession. They wouldn’t be surprised to see a second farm bill extension, corn prices that test four dollars again, and inflation will support managed money returning to the commodities.

Record beef imports wouldn’t be a surprise, as well as a national corn yield bigger than 190 bushels per acre. There are also reasons for optimism like demand opportunities through domestic soybean crushing, renewable fuel, and sustainable aviation fuel. They’re looking for robust domestic consumption and an opportunity for competitive pricing for U.S. commodities in overseas markets. Many producers should still have strong balance sheets.

Geopolitical factors, elections, and many other surprises await the agricultural economy in 2024.Farm Journal and Purdue University’s December Economists’ Monthly Monitor shows views slightly more optimistic than they were a month ago. The economists talked about what unexpected news headlines they wouldn’t be surprised to see in 2024. The responses include China falling into a big recession. They wouldn’t be surprised to see a second farm bill extension, corn prices that test four dollars again, and inflation will support managed money returning to the commodities.Record beef imports wouldn’t be a surprise, as well as a national corn yield bigger than 190 bushels per acre. There are also reasons for optimism like demand opportunities through domestic soybean crushing, renewable fuel, and sustainable aviation fuel. They’re looking for robust domestic consumption and an opportunity for competitive pricing for U.S. commodities in overseas markets. Many producers should still have strong balance sheets.-NAFB

Ag Economists’ 2024 Expectations

USDA’s Ag Marketing Service announced a cooperative agreement with Oklahoma under the Resilient Food Systems Infrastructure Program.

Through the agreement, USDA and Oklahoma are working to offer over $6.3 million in competitive grant funding for projects designed to build resilience across the middle of the supply chain. In May 2023, USDA announced the availability of up to $420 million through the RFSI program to strengthen local and regional food systems.

“This partnership between USDA and Oklahoma is allowing critical funding to reach areas of the supply chain that need it most,” says Jenny Moffitt, USDA Undersecretary for Marketing and Regulatory Programs. Funded projects in Oklahoma will increase cold storage, expand distribution channels for food producers, and increase the number of co-packing options.

“These projects will create new opportunities for the region’s small and midsize producers to thrive, expand access to nutritious food options, and increase supply chain resiliency,” Moffitt adds.

USDA’s Ag Marketing Service announced a cooperative agreement with Oklahoma under the Resilient Food Systems Infrastructure Program.Through the agreement, USDA and Oklahoma are working to offer over $6.3 million in competitive grant funding for projects designed to build resilience across the middle of the supply chain. In May 2023, USDA announced the availability of up to $420 million through the RFSI program to strengthen local and regional food systems.“This partnership between USDA and Oklahoma is allowing critical funding to reach areas of the supply chain that need it most,” says Jenny Moffitt, USDA Undersecretary for Marketing and Regulatory Programs. Funded projects in Oklahoma will increase cold storage, expand distribution channels for food producers, and increase the number of co-packing options.“These projects will create new opportunities for the region’s small and midsize producers to thrive, expand access to nutritious food options, and increase supply chain resiliency,” Moffitt adds.-NAFB

USDA Continues Strengthening U.S. Food Supply Chains

Nebraska Governor Jim Pillen commended Nebraska Representative Mike Flood for introducing a resolution condemning the UN Food Strategy that was released at COP28.

He says the strategy is bad for Nebraska and other agricultural states. “The UN’s radical attack on agriculture undermines the livelihoods of Nebraska farmers and ranchers as well as those in other states where agriculture is an economic driver,” Pillen says. “Anti-agriculture activism damages the world’s food system, and it hurts the hungry.”

He also says farmers in and out of Nebraska raise their products using sustainable methods designed to protect the land and resources on which they rely. The COP28 report called for countries to revamp their farm subsidies to encourage healthier eating, prevent overgrazing of livestock, and eliminate food waste. The report also backed sugar taxes, which would apply to high-fructose corn syrup. It also calls for the promotion of plant-based alternatives to red meat.

Nebraska Governor Jim Pillen commended Nebraska Representative Mike Flood for introducing a resolution condemning the UN Food Strategy that was released at COP28.He says the strategy is bad for Nebraska and other agricultural states. “The UN’s radical attack on agriculture undermines the livelihoods of Nebraska farmers and ranchers as well as those in other states where agriculture is an economic driver,” Pillen says. “Anti-agriculture activism damages the world’s food system, and it hurts the hungry.”He also says farmers in and out of Nebraska raise their products using sustainable methods designed to protect the land and resources on which they rely. The COP28 report called for countries to revamp their farm subsidies to encourage healthier eating, prevent overgrazing of livestock, and eliminate food waste. The report also backed sugar taxes, which would apply to high-fructose corn syrup. It also calls for the promotion of plant-based alternatives to red meat.-NAFB

Nebraska Governor Condemns UN Food Strategy

The U.S. Customs and Border Protection has reopened the Eagle Pass and El Paso rail crossings into Mexico.

Ag groups like the National Corn Growers Association were happy with the move but cautioned the agency against making similar decisions in the future. “This is certainly a welcome relief,” says NCGA President Harold Wolle. “We hope this serves as a cautionary tale against rail shutdowns in the future.” He also says rail is a key mode of transportation for U.S. ag exports into Mexico.

U.S. Wheat Associates and the National Association of Wheat Growers were also relieved the shutdown ended. “These rail corridors are essential gateways to many loyal flour millers and food customers in Mexico who rely on the interconnected U.S. and Mexican rail system for a reliable source of high-quality U.S. wheat,” they said in a statement. “We trust CBP will take the steps needed to avoid future rail closures.”

The U.S. Customs and Border Protection has reopened the Eagle Pass and El Paso rail crossings into Mexico.Ag groups like the National Corn Growers Association were happy with the move but cautioned the agency against making similar decisions in the future. “This is certainly a welcome relief,” says NCGA President Harold Wolle. “We hope this serves as a cautionary tale against rail shutdowns in the future.” He also says rail is a key mode of transportation for U.S. ag exports into Mexico.U.S. Wheat Associates and the National Association of Wheat Growers were also relieved the shutdown ended. “These rail corridors are essential gateways to many loyal flour millers and food customers in Mexico who rely on the interconnected U.S. and Mexican rail system for a reliable source of high-quality U.S. wheat,” they said in a statement. “We trust CBP will take the steps needed to avoid future rail closures.”-NAFB

Ag Groups Pleased with Rail Re-Opening

As of December 1, there were 75 million hogs and pigs on U.S. farms, up slightly from December 2022 and down slightly from September 1, 2023.

That’s according to the Quarterly Hogs and Pigs Report from the National Agricultural Statistics Service. Of those 75 million hogs and pigs, 69 million were market hogs while six million were kept for breeding. Between September and November 2023, 34.6 million pigs were weaned on U.S. farms. From September through November 2023, U.S. hog and pig producers weaned an average of 11.66 pigs per litter.

Hog producers intend to have 2.9 million sows farrow between December 2023 and February 2024, and 2.91 million sows farrow between March and May 2024. Iowa hog producers accounted for the largest inventory among the states with 24.9 million head. Minnesota had the second-largest inventory at 9.1 million head. North Carolina was third with a total of 7.8 million head.

As of December 1, there were 75 million hogs and pigs on U.S. farms, up slightly from December 2022 and down slightly from September 1, 2023.That’s according to the Quarterly Hogs and Pigs Report from the National Agricultural Statistics Service. Of those 75 million hogs and pigs, 69 million were market hogs while six million were kept for breeding. Between September and November 2023, 34.6 million pigs were weaned on U.S. farms. From September through November 2023, U.S. hog and pig producers weaned an average of 11.66 pigs per litter.Hog producers intend to have 2.9 million sows farrow between December 2023 and February 2024, and 2.91 million sows farrow between March and May 2024. Iowa hog producers accounted for the largest inventory among the states with 24.9 million head. Minnesota had the second-largest inventory at 9.1 million head. North Carolina was third with a total of 7.8 million head.-NAFB

U.S. Hog Inventory Slightly Higher

The National Corn Growers Association applauds the sustained reductions in nutrient losses reaching the Gulf of Mexico. The reductions are shrinking the average size of the hypoxia zone, as recently documented in a task force report to Congress. 

NCGA commends all growers for the practical conservation steps and measures they have voluntarily adopted on their farms to reduce nutrient losses and protect water quality. “In the journey of water quality stewardship, we are encouraged by the strides made by growers,” says Bryan Biegler, NCGA Stewardship Action Team Chair. “The commitment to sustainable practices is clear, and despite challenging weather patterns impacting growers, we see definite progress taking form over the course of a five-year rolling average.” 

According to the report, the 2025 interim target to reduce nitrogen loads by 20 percent has been met. More work is needed to reduce nitrogen and phosphorous by 28 percent to meet the 2035 goal.

The National Corn Growers Association applauds the sustained reductions in nutrient losses reaching the Gulf of Mexico. The reductions are shrinking the average size of the hypoxia zone, as recently documented in a task force report to Congress. NCGA commends all growers for the practical conservation steps and measures they have voluntarily adopted on their farms to reduce nutrient losses and protect water quality. “In the journey of water quality stewardship, we are encouraged by the strides made by growers,” says Bryan Biegler, NCGA Stewardship Action Team Chair. “The commitment to sustainable practices is clear, and despite challenging weather patterns impacting growers, we see definite progress taking form over the course of a five-year rolling average.” According to the report, the 2025 interim target to reduce nitrogen loads by 20 percent has been met. More work is needed to reduce nitrogen and phosphorous by 28 percent to meet the 2035 goal.- NAFB