Land O'Lakes maintains data regarding aggregate farm output, which it then shares with farmers so they can use the insights to operate sustainably. The key to a thriving food economy in the future is "data, data, data," said CEO Beth Ford.

The Trump administration on Thursday announced an aid package of up to $16 billion for farmers and ranchers affected by the US-China trade war, centered around $14.5 billion in cash payments for crop farmers, along with pork and dairy producers. The aid "ensures that farmers will not bear the brunt of those trade practices by China or any other nation," Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue said.

The latest sustainability report from Smithfield Foods showcases the company's efforts in animal care, the environment, helping communities and food safety and quality. The company also rolled out a new interactive tool that allows users to take a virtual tour of its sustainability initiatives and follow each stage of its supply chain.

Albertsons is revamping its Signature Select private label this year with a new look and more than 300 new items. "With the expansion of Signature Select, customers will find even more surprises, from seasonal and holiday items to ethnic and even plant-based offerings," says President of Own Brands Geoff White.

New frozen bars from KIND Healthy Snacks and General Mills' new Drumstick cereal caught the attention of SmartBrief's food-and-beverage readers this week. A convenience store concept from Whole Foods Market and Ferrero's new products also resonated with readers.

Confusion over existing expiration warnings on food labels leads to about 20% of the nation's food waste, an FDA official says, following the agency's support of simplified labeling pioneered by GMA and FMI. Currently, 87% of products produced by GMA members already adhere to the new standard, and that number is expected to grow to 98% by the end of 2019. "Today's FDA announcement supporting standardized use of 'Best If Used By' is a win for American consumers," said Geoff Freeman, president and CEO of GMA.

Darigold will boost its operations in Mexico with the addition of in-country sales and logistics leaders to improve customer service in Latin America, the company announced.

In observance of Memorial Day in the US, Dairy SmartBrief will not publish Monday, May 27. Publication will resume Wednesday, May 29.