Meat packagingPresident Donald Trump directed the Department of Justice (DOJ) to immediately investigate major meatpacking companies for alleged price fixing and market manipulation in the beef industry last Friday. Trump accused largely foreign-owned packers of “artificially inflating prices,” hurting ranchers and threatening U.S. food security. He said the probe aims to protect consumers and ensure fair competition.

Attorney General Pam Bondi confirmed that the DOJ’s Antitrust Division, led by Abigail Slater, is already working with Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins on the case.

Rollins called for greater transparency and accountability, arguing that corporate monopolies have long exploited family producers and consumers. The investigation focuses on major firms—Tyson, Cargill, JBS and National Beef—which collectively control about 80% of the U.S. beef market.

Industry groups offered mixed reactions. The Meat Institute countered that packers are operating at a loss due to high cattle prices and tight supply. It insisted the market is transparent and heavily regulated. The U.S. Cattlemen’s Association stated that beef prices are not too high. Prices are a direct reflection of consumer demand.

R-CALF USA said the action could correct market imbalances and ensure fair prices for producers while holding corporate packers accountable.

Read more on the DOJ investigation of meat packers over beef prices here.