News
Antitrust · DOJ Investigation · Meatpacking · Price Fixing
President Trump directed the Department of Justice to launch an antitrust investigation into the U.S. meatpacking industry on November 7, 2025, targeting "Big Four" companies JBS, Cargill, Tyson Foods, and National Beef for alleged collusion, price fixing, and price manipulation.
The White House confirmed the directive, accusing "foreign-dominated conglomerates" of artificially inflating prices. U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi announced the investigation is underway, led by Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins and Assistant Attorney General Gail Slater.
This marks a renewed federal scrutiny, following a 2020 DOJ investigation where JBS and Tyson Foods received subpoenas. The Justice Department is also investigating egg producers, including Cal-Maine Foods, for similar anticompetitive practices.
Companies found in violation of federal antitrust laws, such as the Sherman Act, face substantial penalties, including criminal fines up to $100 million. The investigation is not limited to the "Big Four" and could expand to other companies.
