The Wall Street Journal

The bacon apocalypse that wasn’t

The bacon apocalypse that wasn’t
Fears that bacon would be in short supply because of animal welfare regulations were unfounded. (Image: Wall Street Journal)
The Wall Street Journal
By H. Claire BrownLast July, as California businesses braced for the impact of a long-delayed animal welfare law, some market watchers worried that the new rules would lead to bacon shortages and sky-high prices. Worse, it was feared, California voters’ decision would ripple outward and increase pork prices across the rest of the United States. So far, the shortage fears have proven overblown. But one thing is clear: Californians are paying more for certain cuts like bacon and pork loin at the grocery store, according to checkout sca...

More Primary Sector

Seventh global dairy price drop, supply outstripping demand
Primary Sector

Seventh global dairy price drop, supply outstripping demand

The latest auction will put further pressure on Fonterra's payout.

Investors cream $214m from Fonterra Mainland sale
Primary Sector

Investors cream $214m from Fonterra Mainland sale

From “dismal” returns to a windfall and rocketing unit price. But what's next?

How US politics just delivered NZ a beef break
Primary Sector

How US politics just delivered NZ a beef break

There could be additional tariff rollbacks to come as well.

Dileepa Fonseka 17 Nov 2025