Cost of fighting bird flu outbreaks tops $670 million – March 14, 2023

Cost of fighting bird flu outbreaks tops $670 million

The Agriculture Department promotes comprehensive biosecurity measures on the farm as the “best and prudent approach” to combat bird flu outbreaks that have killed 58.6 million birds in domestic flocks in 13 months. The viral disease drove up egg prices during 2022 and, after a respite early this year, egg prices are on the rise again with the approach of Easter.

Democrat-backed bill would end time limit for SNAP benefits

A day after the White House called for the elimination of barriers to food assistance, nearly three dozen House Democrats filed a bill to end the three-month limit on SNAP benefits for so-called ABAWDs, able-bodied adults ages 18-49 without dependents. “Research finds that relinquishing access to SNAP benefits only forces people into hunger, not job security,” said Rep. Barbara Lee of California, a lead sponsor of the legislation.

TODAY’S QUICK HITS

China seeks larger grain output: China’s “support of grain production will only increase” and the government will beef up production through a focus on arable lands and seeds to assure self-sufficiency in food, said Premier Li Qiang. (China Daily)

Lab-grown dairy is here: Dozens of companies went into business in recent months to develop animal-free dairy protein from yeasts and fungi and their products already are on grocery shelves as ingredients in cream cheese, ice cream and other products. (Washington Post)

New Democrat farm bill panel: The New Democrat Coalition, looking for areas where bipartisan agreement is possible in a closely divided House, named Rep. Kim Schrier of Washington State as chair of its farm bill task force with Reps. Jim Costa of California and Don Davis of North Carolina as vice chairs. (New Democrat Coalition)

New food fraud charges: Ten additional people have been charged in the federal investigation of an alleged $240 million in food aid fraud by the nonprofit group Feeding Our Future in Minnesota; a total of 60 people face charges. (Minneapolis Star Tribune)

Black Sea grain proposal: Russia proposed a 60-day extension of the Black Sea grain initiative, half the lifespan of the current agreement that allows Ukraine to export grain by ship and is set to expire on Saturday. (Reuters)

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