Meat & Poultry

Smithfield Foods Inc. announced Thursday that 38 percent of pregnant sows on its company-owned farms have been transferred to “group housing.” The remaining 62 percent are in “gestation stalls,” a form of housing criticized by animal-rights groups as too confining and unhealthy for animals. …

Butterball, LLC announced that it has acquired Gusto Packing Co., located in Montgomery, Ill. Gusto Packing Co. is a family owned and operated business that offers six basic product lines; Hickory & Apple Wood Smoked Bacon, Bone-In Smoked Pork & Turkey Products, Smoked Boneless Hams, Cooked Hams, Pork & Turkey Deli Meats and Spiral Sliced Hams. …

Six countries have banned imports of Brazilian beef, including No. 6 importer Chile, since a case of atypical mad cow disease was confirmed last month, Brazil's foreign trade secretary Tatiana Prazeres said on Wednesda …

Back for the second year, Tyson Foods, makers of Tyson® Grilled & Ready® chicken and beef products, is kicking-off 2013 with the 30 Days, 30 Ways, 30 Rewards Program to empower users to make and stick to their smart-eating resolutions. Teaming up with Tyson Foods again, guilt-free food expert Hungry Girl Lisa Lillien will bring meal ideas – all under 400 calories per serving – and expert advice to users daily through the click of a mouse. Starting January 1, users can visit Facebook.com/GrilledAndReady, and each day, a new recipe, tip and prize will be revealed to provide participants with fresh ideas and inspiration. …

As part of the 2013 International Production & Processing Expo (IPPE) education schedule, the Meat and Poultry Research Conference will focus on the new economic reality presented by natural and organic products, addressing topics from regulatory and animal management challenges to processing and ingredients issues. The registration fee for the program is $150 for all Expo attendees. …