By Ryan Hanrahan
Meatingplace’s Chris Moore reported that “Sen. Chuck Schumer on Friday introduced legislation aimed at lowering grocery prices by increasing competition in the meatpacking industry, arguing that consolidation among the nation’s largest meat companies has contributed to higher beef prices.”
“Standing at Avon Meat Market in New York’s Capital Region, Schumer announced the proposed ‘Family Grocery and Farmer Relief Act,’ which would seek to break up large meatpacking companies and provide support for smaller processors and producer cooperatives,” Moore reported. “‘Families here in the Capital Region are facing one of the most expensive Memorial Day weekends ever,’ Schumer said. ‘Corporate giants that dominate the meat market and set prices sky-high for families, all while squeezing profits from farmers by eliminating competition, and it needs to end.'”
“Schumer cited rising grocery and fuel costs, noting that beef prices had climbed sharply over the last year,” Moore reported. “He pointed to industry concentration among Tyson Foods, JBS, Cargill and National Beef, which he said collectively control 85% of the U.S. beef market, 67% of pork processing and 60% of chicken processing.”
“The proposal would require major meatpackers to choose between operating in beef, pork or chicken rather than maintaining dominant positions across multiple protein segments. The legislation also would provide financial and technical assistance for smaller processors, farmer cooperatives and local supply chains,” Moore reported. “Schumer said the measure was intended to increase competition, create more marketing options for livestock producers and provide retailers with additional local sourcing opportunities.”
Source : illinois.edu