Break the Bubble (@operation_highjump)

#new A major move against the meatpacking monopoly as President Trump is authorizing American farmers and ranchers to process and sell their own meat, targeting what he described as a small group of giant processors that dominate the industry and squeeze producers. #DC As it stands now, most farmers are forced to haul animals to a handful of massive plants for processing, instead of being allowed to process their own meat which would save a significant amount of money. 🔷️Four companies: 🔷️Tyson Foods, 🔷️Cargill, 🔷️JBS USA, and National Beef Packing handle about 85% of U.S. fed-cattle processing, according to USDA data. #Farm JBS is Brazilian-owned & National Beef is majority-owned by Brazil’s Marfrig. President Trump recognized that much of the ownership sits outside the United States. Ranchers have long said the set up leaves them with only two to four possible buyers in many regions, forces expensive hauls to distant plants, and lets the big processors dictate terms. The DOJ has been investigating the packers for possible anti-competitive conduct after Trump directed targeted high prices and foreign ownership. Under current federal rules dating back decades, ranchers may slaughter and process animals for their own family’s use. #Beef Selling that meat to the public, restaurants, or across state lines generally requires a USDA-inspected facility that meets strict sanitation and inspection standards. Small custom plants exist, but opening or expanding them faces heavy regulatory hurdles. State-inspected meat usually cannot cross state lines. Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins said “big announcements” will start Monday that will include: 🔸️Expanding ranchers’ ability to sell across state lines, 🔸️Support and funding for smaller processors, 🔸️Waiving red tape, and 🔸️Rescinding outdated guidance. The administration has already put $60 million toward small processors. #christinaaguayonews