-
On August 4, 2025, the CDC confirmed the first US human case of New World screwworm in Maryland, involving a patient recently returned from El Salvador. The flesh-eating parasite, primarily affecting livestock, has been spreading northward through Central America and Mexico since 2023. The US is responding with plans for a sterile fly facility in Texas to prevent reintroduction and protect the cattle industry.
-
As of mid-October 2025, US soybean farmers are struggling due to China halting purchases amid ongoing trade tensions and tariffs. China, the largest buyer, has not bought US soybeans this season, diverting demand to Brazil and Argentina. President Trump plans to discuss soybean trade with Xi Jinping at the upcoming APEC summit, while US farmers seek new markets and await potential government aid.
-
The New World screwworm, a deadly parasitic fly, has been detected in Nuevo León, Mexico, less than 70 miles from the US border. Authorities are increasing surveillance and control measures to prevent its spread into the US, where it could devastate livestock and wildlife. No US cases have been confirmed yet.
-
Recent federal funding cuts and rising grocery prices have increased food insecurity in the US. Food banks face greater demand, with volunteers and charities stepping up to fill the gap. Stories from Maine and Seattle highlight ongoing struggles for affordable, nutritious food as demand surges.
-
President Trump plans to impose 100% tariffs on pharmaceuticals and continues trade tensions with China, impacting US farmers. Nike reports a slow but ongoing recovery, while critics like Ken Griffin oppose tariffs favoring large corporations. The stories highlight economic strains and political debates in the US, with implications for global trade.
-
Nate's Fine Foods of Roseville, California, recalled thousands of pasta cases after tests linked their products to a listeria outbreak that has caused four deaths and 20 illnesses since August 2024. The outbreak is connected to heat-and-eat meals produced by FreshRealm, which used the contaminated pasta. Authorities warn consumers to discard affected products.
-
The US and China have agreed on a one-year trade truce during a summit in South Korea, involving tariffs, agricultural purchases, and critical mineral exports. The deal aims to de-escalate tensions, though key issues like technology and AI remain unaddressed. The agreement is seen as a cautious step forward amid ongoing disputes.
-
The USDA announced that due to the federal shutdown, SNAP benefits will be reduced to 65% of usual payments, with some recipients receiving no benefits. The benefit cards could be loaded as soon as Friday in Louisiana, but delays are expected in most states. The cuts follow legal challenges and court rulings on the use of emergency funds.
-
Amid ongoing government shutdown, courts have ordered the US government to fully fund the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) to prevent hunger for millions. Despite legal rulings, the administration's delays and partial payments threaten food security, with uncertainty over when benefits will fully resume.
-
Amid a record-breaking government shutdown, several states began issuing full SNAP benefits despite a court order to reduce payments. The USDA has instructed states to revert to 65% funding, with legal challenges and Supreme Court intervention delaying full payments. The dispute highlights ongoing political conflicts over social welfare funding.
-
A federal provision set to take effect in November 2026 will ban hemp-derived products containing more than 0.4 mg of THC per container, threatening the $24 billion industry. Industry leaders are lobbying for new legislation to regulate and preserve hemp-based products, especially THC beverages popular among Gen Z.
-
As the global food system accounts for about a third of human-caused greenhouse gases, consumers are exploring sustainable options like local farms and food donations. During Thanksgiving, these choices can significantly reduce environmental impact and food waste, with tips from experts on shopping and donating responsibly.
-
The Biden administration is threatening to withhold federal SNAP funds from 21 states that refuse to share recipient data, citing fraud concerns. Legal battles and privacy debates are ongoing, with courts temporarily blocking enforcement. The dispute highlights partisan divides over social safety programs and data privacy.