Ag Headlines, Monday November 2, 2015

WHO Clarifies Position on Processed Meats

The World Health Organization issued a news released to clarify the International Agency for Research on Cancer position regarding processed meats last week. The released said WHO  has received several inquires, expressions of concern and requests for clarification on the conclusion that declared processed meats as a known carcinogen. WHO pointed out that the IARC’s review confirms the recommendation in the World Health Organization’s 2002 Diet, Nutrition and the Prevention of Chronic Diseases Report, which advised people to moderate consumption of preserved meat to reduce the risk of cancer. The latest IARC review, according to the World Health Organization, does not ask people to stop eating processed meats but indicates that reducing consumption of these products can reduce the risk of colorectal cancer. The WHO says early next year they will meet to begin looking at the public health implications of the latest science and the place of processed meat and red meat within the context of an overall healthy diet.

WOTUS Senate Vote Could Come this Week

A vote on Senator Joni Ernst’s resolution against the Clean Water Rule, or “Waters of the US,” could come as soon as this week. In a press release, Ernst announced last week she now has enough support to overcome a filibuster but did not outline how many supports have signed onto the resolution which would effectively kill the WOTUS rule. AgriPulse reports that although President Obama would almost certainly veto the disapproval resolution, the Senate vote would be a test of support for blocking the rule legislatively through a policy rider in the fiscal 2016 spending bill that Congress is expected to consider in December.

Angus Genetics Command Record Prices in Fiscal 2015

The American Angus Association says Angus breeders are enjoying one of the most successful years on record. New figures released last week show that during fiscal year 2015, sale averages for Angus genetics soared, total registrations grew and the Certified Angus Beef brand achieved its ninth consecutive year of record sales. Rich Wilson, the Association’s interim CEO said “No doubt, it’s a profitable time to be in the cattle business, but it’s also an even better time to be involved with the Angus breed.” On average, according to the Association, buyers paid about 35% more for registered Angus genetics in 2015 than they did during the prior fiscal year, with nearly $110 million in additional gross revenue reported for registered-Angus breeders. Total gross sales reported to the Association eclipsed $437 million — the highest ever reported in the organization’s 132-year history.

NAFB News