The Latest: February - 2026
USDA Buying Food to Donate
On Thursday, USDA announced that it would spend $263 million buying food to donate to food banks and nutrition assistance programs under Section 32 of the Depression-era Agricultural Act of 1935. USDA will spend nearly half of the $148 million allocated for dairy products on butter, with another $42.5 million for Swiss and Cheddar cheese, and $30.5 million on conventional and ultra-high temperature milk.
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The market is still suffering a hangover after over-indulging in October and November and the damage has been done.
View reportDairy markets were not immune, and after a healthy rally last week markets suffered a sizeable setback.
View reportThe steep December selloff was a necessary correction and was not the start of a sustained downtrend. With the exception of butter, dairy demand is outpacing supply and supporting dairy product prices.
View reportCME spot Cheddar barrels dropped to a 10-month low but came roaring back. The powder markets firmed as well.
View reportMilk yields and components remain high while an unsettled market tries to digest the holiday excess.
View reportRevenues improved throughout the year. Although not sufficient to undo years of financial distress, it is the highest revenue since 2014 and worthy of celebration.
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