beef

Why Beef Is So Pricey -- and How to Pay Less

Beef prices have bulked up so much that thieves are starting to steal it. Consumers might feel like they're getting robbed, too, at the checkout stands. Several factors -- including high cattle feed prices -- mean the prices could continue to climb. Here's how to spend less cash on cows.

Before You Cook Your Next Meal, Read This

A new national study reveals some disturbing news for consumers: 47% of meat and poultry samples tested were contaminated with Staph bacteria. Find out which meat was the worst offender.

Why You'll Be Paying More for the Summer Barbecue

That cherished American tradition -- summer grilling -- is about to get pricier. Rising grain prices are affecting livestock feed, which in turn affects meat production. And surging overseas demand for both U.S grains and meat are adding to the equation.

For U.S. Beef Exports, 2010 Was Fat and Happy

The American beef market has rebounded since the dark days of 2003, when a report of "mad cow disease" virtually shut down U.S. beef and pork exports. Now, thanks to strong demand from Asia, industry officials say 2010 was the best year ever for U.S. beef exports.

Inflation Warning: Should the Fed Raise Interest Rates?

It's no surprise that consumer prices are rising -- the prices of commodities from corn to cotton to copper are near record levels, thanks to shrinking supplies and rising demand worldwide. The question is whether the Fed will raise rates to combat this price inflation -- and whether it should.

The Taco Bell Beef Suit: Not All Processed Foods Are Evil

A new lawsuit against Taco Bell claims processed beef used by the fast food giant contains mostly fillers. Taco Bell vigorously denies the claim, but the litigation is drawing new attention to the years-long controversy over processed meats.

How to Profit From Soaring Food Demand

If you've been to a supermarket lately, you've probably noticed that food prices are soaring. And that spells an opportunity for investors. Asset-management expert John Stephenson offers tips for small investors aiming to tap into the agricultural market.

New U.S. Trade Deals With China

Two days of talks with a high-level delegation from China produced results that should benefit U.S. companies ranging from manufacturers of computer software and wind turbines to beef producers.

The Trade Deal With Korea Will Beef Up U.S. Meat Exports

Since the mad cow scare of 2003, South Korea has been a tough market for U.S. beef: The country first banned it, then severely limited imports. But a pending new trade agreement could mark the resumption of normal trade and the start of a more prosperous era for American beef exports.

Medusahead: An Inedible Grass Threatens Western Rangeland

Spreading at 12% a year across 17 Western state, this invasive species -- with its high silica content and spiky heads and seeds that cut animals' mouths -- forces livestock to go elsewhere to feed. That can raise costs for ranchers and result in skinnier cattle.

Rising Corn Prices Will Soon Mean Fatter Meat Prices

The price of corn has shot up 8% during the week of Oct. 11 alone, bringing the total rise to close to 50% in the last three months. As farmers cull herds to save feed costs, meat supplies will shrink -- and the price of hamburger and pork chops will be rising.

Local Food Movement Gives Small Farms a Big Boost

The locavore, or local food, movement is gaining momentum, driven in part by increasing awareness about the importance of quality food. Nationwide, small, local farms have tapped into a growing market by selling meat and produce to nearby consumers and choosy restaurant chefs.

Meat Market: Cattlemen Debate Federal Antitrust Measure

Hoping to stop more small ranches from failing, the Obama administration has proposed a new antitrust rule. But ranchers are divided about whether it will help or hurt them. At a workshop Friday, some argued the rule could end up reducing their earnings.

Bad Eggs: Will Expanded Recall Put Consumers Off Breakfast?

Will the Wright County Egg recall leave the whole industry with egg on its face? Even though only one egg producer has been linked to the salmonella cases, the recall might end up turning consumers off eggs, if the spinach and beef recalls are any indication.

The Top 10 Cuts of Beef for Summer Grilling

It's hard to beat a mouthwatering steak grilled on the barbecue during the summer. But which ones provide the best sizzle for the price? Fortunately, tough times mean that most people don't have to go for the least expensive cuts. This year, the higher-quality cuts now sell for less. Here are the 10 most popular cuts for grilling this summer.

Are U.S. Beef Prices Being Manipulated?

A news report says the government is preparing to launch an investigation into whether the nation's largest meat packing companies have been manipulating and driving down cattle prices. But industry insiders are skeptical.

Here's the Beef: Why U.S. Cattle Prices Are Rising

Meat eaters, brace yourselves for higher prices in the months to come. After a long economic slide, U.S. beef prices are rising again, as demand both at home and abroad increases. American consumers must now compete with Asian customers for popular beef short ribs.