Lower supplies to drive next-year costs.

Operators voice concerns over federal tax credit for corn-based ethanol producers

National Council of Chain Restaurants, 16 restaurant chains sign letter

NRN takes a look at recent legislation and regulation issues

Now that commodities are front and center in the national spotlight, the finger pointers, conspiracy theorists and self-serving politicians have arisen as if drawn out by a full moon. Unfortunately, what many of them are spouting is sheer lunacy. Here are the three biggest “real” drivers of commodity prices.


The United Nations’ Food and Agriculture Organization reported that world food prices rose 2.2 percent in February to a new record high and could rise further still if drought continues to decimate China’s wheat harvest. The reasons for high prices: drought in Russia and Argentina, floods in Canada and Pakistan, export bans, and panic buying and hoarding. These supply disruptions have led agricultural economists to ask, “If the world can’t properly feed 7 billion people today, how will it feed 9 billion in 2050?” In fact, the FAO estimates food output will have to rise 70 percent by 2050 to keep pace with population growth. 


Nutrition activists have salt in their sights.

Alcoholic beverages increase sales, help distinguish concepts

In the first round, the food cops scored a body blow by convincing local governments across the country to ban margarine — or, if you prefer, trans fats.


Chain aims to cut sodium across menu by 23 percent

Menu Trends & Directions kicks off with presentations on F&B trends