Vaccination penalties delayed: The Biden administration will wait until 2022 to suspend or take more serious action against federal employees who refuse to get vaccinated against Covid-19 and do not obtain a religious or medical waiver. (Government Executive)
Four Corners potato: USDA scientists are studying the Four Corners potato, which has grown in the Southwest for centuries, to see if its resistance to disease, heat and drought can be used to assure a food supply during climate change. (The Counter)
ADM buys Sojaprotein: In a “significant expansion” of its capacity to produce plant-based foods and beverages, agribusiness giant ADM purchased Sojaprotein, which is based in Serbia and exports non-GMO soy products to 65 countries. (ADM)
Underserved producers: Twenty organizations will receive a combined $75 million to help connect veterans, Black and Native American producers and other underserved farmers and ranchers with USDA programs and services. (USDA)
U.S., France tie: The United States and France tied for ninth place in the tenth annual Global Food Security Index, dominated as usual by European nations; seventh-place Canada nipped the United States for top marks on quality and safety of food. (Economist Impact)