DOJ Launches Criminal Probe Into Meat Processing Giants Over Cattle Pricing

The U.S. Department of Justice is investigating whether major meatpackers conspired to manipulate cattle purchase prices. The probe comes as consumers face soaring costs for beef and other grocery staples.

• Criminal investigation opened into cattle auction price-setting
• Four major firms under scrutiny: Tyson, JBS, Cargill, and National Beef
• Probe examines potential illegal agreements to lower rancher payouts
• Investigation linked to rising consumer costs for beef and eggs
• Potential for significant fines or structural industry changes