NASHVILLE, Tenn. (RFD-TV) — Households pinching pennies are turning to ultra-cheap, few-ingredient “struggle meals” as grocery costs remain a top pain point. An August AP-NORC poll found a majority of adults now call groceries a major source of stress, and many have even used buy-now-pay-later for essentials.
Searches for “struggle meal” hit a record high in September, and #strugglemeals posts are climbing on Instagram and TikTok, reflecting a wave of budget-cooking content.
Online, the genre runs from rice-and-egg bowls and ramen hacks to skillet “helpers.” Tastemade’s long-running Struggle Meals series with Frankie Celenza anchors the space on YouTube, while creators like Dollar Tree Dinners have gone viral with ultra-low-budget holiday menus. Nutrition voices caution that many recipes skew low in protein and fiber and high in sodium, urging simple add-ins (beans, eggs, frozen veg) to balance plates rather than abandon thrifty cooking altogether.
Farm-Level Takeaway: The trend points to steady demand for low-cost staples—such as rice, pasta, tortillas, eggs, and canned goods—and value lines, creating opportunities for producers and retailers positioned on price.
Expect firm calf and fed-cattle prices — pair selective heifer retention with prudent hedging and liquidity to bridge rebuilding costs.
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The new antitrust agreement between the Department of Justice (DOJ) and the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) aims to enforce antitrust laws and monitor market activity across the ag sector.
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China is not one of our top suppliers of cooking oil, according to USDA ERS data, but does export a lot of used cooking oil to the U.S. for biofuel production.
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Expect firmer shop prices, leaner inventories, and selective hiring in ag-adjacent businesses — plan parts, service, and financing needs earlier.
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Lewis Williamson with HTS Commodities joined RFD-TV’s Market Day Report to share insight into what’s happening on the ground and in the markets.
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New U.S. fees on Chinese-owned and built ships took effect overnight, marking the latest escalation in maritime trade tensions between Washington and Beijing.
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Reliable, clearly graded middle meats still anchor demand; programs that deliver consistent eating quality and simple, confidence-building menus capture more repeat visits—and more value—back through the beef chain.
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Congress has just over a month of working days left for the year. Plan for uneven USDA service until funding is restored, and closely monitor Farm Bill talks, as avoiding Permanent Law before January 1 is the single biggest risk to markets and milk prices.
October 07, 2025 11:09 AM
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Beef demand could be influencing other economic sectors, as consumers adjust spending habits to prioritize higher-priced beef products.
October 02, 2025 01:39 PM
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