From the internet
The DOJ has escalated its probe into meatpacking giants to criminal status, targeting potential price-fixing that squeezes ranchers while jacking up your grocery bill—what happens if they crack this cartel?
- DOJ Antitrust Division investigates Tyson Foods, Cargill, JBS, and National Beef for criminal antitrust violations in cattle contracts.
- Four firms control 85% of U.S. beef processing market, amid 50% beef price surge.
- President Trump sparked the probe in November 2025 after accusing packers of manipulating rancher prices and inflating consumer costs.
- Wall Street Journal revealed criminal nature on April 21, 2026; no charges yet, DOJ silent.
- Texas Ag Commissioner Sid Miller hails it as long-overdue fairness for ranchers.
President Donald Trump accused meatpackers of manipulating cattle purchase prices in November 2025 and demanded DOJ action. Tyson Foods, Cargill, JBS, and National Beef face scrutiny for contracts tied to a pricing benchmark ranchers claim is rigged.
These firms control 85% of the slaughter of grain-fattened cattle. Beef prices surged nearly 50%, hitting consumers hard. Trump highlighted foreign ownership of JBS and National Beef, though U.S.-based Tyson and Cargill also dominate. This criminal probe marks a sharp turn from prior efforts.
Beef Industry Consolidation Enables Pricing Power
Four companies process 85% of U.S. retail beef, giving them leverage over ranchers and shoppers. Ranchers sell cattle under contracts referencing allegedly manipulated benchmarks. The Packers buy low, sell high to consumers amid price spikes.
A prior DOJ investigation from 2017 through Biden’s term closed weeks before this launch, without charges. Critics point to excessive consolidation fostering anticompetitive deals.
Farmers are fin ally getting a break as per Trump meeting with Chi!
They made a deal on three or four of the major things the farmers were asking for. Soy beans were one.
