Ag Sec. Rollins takes new actions to reduce burdens on the U.S. pork and poultry industries

Ag Secretary Brooke Rollins announced she is taking action to streamline pork and poultry processing, starting with line speeds.

Rollins says the Food Safety and Inspection Service will extend waivers, allowing pork and poultry facilities to keep line speeds higher. It is an area that USDA has studied extensively over the years and across Administrations.

She notes these studies have proven no link between processing speeds and injuries. Rollins says these moves are important to meet demand without excessive government interference. Rulemaking will start right away.

Related Stories
Cotton farmers should weigh potential PLC payments against STAX coverage and act before the September 30 deadline.
U.S. produce growers face a structural disadvantage—cheaper imports driving down prices while rising labor costs squeeze margins. Without new policies or technology, profitability remains uncertain.
Herd rebuilding looks slow, keeping cattle prices supported; beef-on-dairy crosses help fill feedlots, while imports temper—but don’t erase—tightness.
Farmers should watch for soybean export rebounds with harvest, while corn and wheat shipments remain strong and sorghum demand struggles.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

Jake Charleston of Specialty Risk Insurance shares risk-reduction strategies to help cattle producers prepare for a successful year ahead.
Oregon FFA CEO Kjer Kizer discusses the proposed budget reductions, potential consequences, and the importance of protecting learning opportunities for students interested in agriculture.
RealAg Radio host Shaun Haney explains why the 2026 USMCA review could directly affect dairy access, produce competition, and export reliability for U.S. farmers and ranchers.
Smaller U.S. production and steady global demand could provide better pricing opportunities in 2026.
More than 1,100 residents and farmers have signed a letter urging Ag Secretary Brooke Rollins to step in, saying the proposal threatens irrigation supplies and long-term farm viability in the region.
Reviewing risk management now can help dairy and livestock producers enter 2026 with clearer margins and fewer surprises.