AGP Executive Report

Food Safety Alert: USDA says beef kofta sold at The Kebab Shop may contain Shiga toxin–producing E. coli O157:H7, with customers in California, Texas, and Florida urged to watch for serious illness after the chain stopped selling the product. Retail Expansion: Sprouts Farmers Market announced a new Lecanto store opening June 4, with fresh produce, wellness items, and in-store sushi and deli prep. Restaurant Industry Watch: Upscale Italian spot Casa D’Angelo permanently closed its Aventura location, with no explanation given. Quick-Service Delivery Shift: Chick-fil-A opened its first Florida delivery-only “ghost kitchen” in Wynwood (CloudKitchens), designed for citywide delivery with no dine-in or drive-thru. Local Dining Development: Jacksonville is reviewing site-clearing and construction plans for Ellianos Coffee at 8700 Beach Blvd., a new drive-thru kiosk location. Community Food Support: Catholic Charities Jacksonville launched a summer hunger backpack program, serving up to 100 students weekly on Mondays. Food & Drink Culture: Fort Myers’ Backyard Social is hosting World Cup watch parties and “Drink Around the World” themed stations.

Livestock Health Alert: USDA confirmed five new New World screwworm cases—Texas calves, a Texas goat, and a New Mexico dog—prompting quarantines, movement controls, and sterile-fly releases as officials race to stop a parasite that can destroy animals fast. SNAP Rules: USDA says Florida is among states restricting SNAP purchases of non-nutritious items like soda and candy, with more states rolling out limits over the coming months. World Cup Food Buzz: Brands are leaning hard into matchday menus and deals, from soccer-themed Crumbl desserts to World Cup-themed food and collectibles rolling out across the U.S. Local Dining: Coral Gables is getting its first Italian food hall this summer—Zuccaly—bringing multiple stations, pasta, gelato, and a market under one roof. Delivery Expansion: Chick-fil-A opened a Florida “ghost kitchen” in Wynwood for delivery-only orders. Community Giving: Second Harvest’s Ultimate Garden Party raised $370,000+ to help fund 1.5 million meals for Central Florida families facing hunger.

Screwworm Threat to Florida Food Supply: USDA confirmed new New World screwworm cases in Texas (now four total), raising alarms for cattle health and potentially pushing beef prices higher—an issue that matters for Florida’s ranch-to-table supply chain. Restaurant & Retail Moves: Better Than Sex is closing its Orlando location after 10 years, while Just Salad opened in Altamonte Springs with plant-centric meals and grand-opening promos. Local Food Safety Watch: North Miami Beach’s Sichuan Fish Restaurant was ordered shut after inspectors found rodent activity and moldy food, with follow-up cleanup required before reopening. Beef Antitrust Payouts: Walmart/Target shoppers may claim part of an $87.5 million beef price-fixing settlement by June 30, no proof needed. Cottage Food Training: UF/IFAS Pasco Extension is running a virtual “Introduction to Cottage Foods in Florida” class for would-be home bakers. Summer Heat Prep: UF/IFAS guidance highlights how to hydrate safely during Florida’s hottest stretches.

Food Safety Watch: A Florida mother and daughter sued Campbell’s and Walmart over alleged worms/parasites in SpaghettiOs, claiming illness after the June 6, 2024 discovery; the companies deny wrongdoing. FDA Outbreak Updates: FDA is investigating two mystery foodborne illness outbreaks (Listeria and Cyclospora) while continuing salmonella probes tied to recalled moringa capsules linked to illnesses in 14 states, including Florida. Grocery & Consumer Law: Trader Joe’s faces a fast-approaching June 9 deadline for a $7.4M class-action settlement over a 2019 credit-card digit mix-up. Inflation at the Checkout: A new report warns another inflation wave is headed for grocery stores, driven by weather, tariffs, and cattle supply pressures. Local Food & Community: North Florida’s Tomato Festival is spotlighting the future of farming as younger growers struggle to break in and stay profitable. Dining Expansion: Salt & Straw is adding Doral and Wynwood scoop shops, betting on South Florida’s growing dessert scene. Livestock Risk: Florida enacted emergency rules to keep the New World screwworm out after Texas detection, tightening animal import and inspection requirements.

World Cup Logistics in Miami-Dade: Miami-Dade is pushing verified-ticket holders to use free shuttles via major transit hubs to cut traffic and parking stress around Hard Rock Stadium. South Florida Sweet Spot: Salt & Straw is opening in Doral and Wynwood, adding a premium, rotating-flavor ice cream stop to the local food scene. Food Access in Schools: Miami-Dade Public Schools will serve free summer breakfast and lunch to kids up to 18 at 170 sites, with meals eaten on-site only. Food Safety Alert: The CDC expanded its Salmonella warning tied to moringa leaf supplements, now listing 119 cases across 36 states (plus a second outbreak tied to Mogo products). Livestock Protection: Florida enacted emergency rules to block New World screwworm risk, restricting warm-blooded animal imports from affected Texas zones and tightening inspections. Community Relief: Volunteers in Little Havana distributed about 800 boxes of food and hygiene supplies to families in need. Local Dining Watch: Texas Roadhouse is being considered for a Sarasota County development site, with other chains also discussed.

Hurricane Prep & Food Aid: CBS News Miami partnered with community groups to distribute hurricane supplies, including meals ready to eat, water, flashlights, electrolytes, and pet food, with 500 kits available at a Miami Gardens location. Local Community Drives: Parrish Healthcare launched its bi-annual Hopeful Hearts Supply Drive for people experiencing homelessness in Brevard County, collecting items like reusable water bottles, bug repellent, sunscreen, socks, hygiene products, and canned/nonperishable food through June 30. SNAP Policy Fight: A federal judge blocked the Trump administration’s “Conditions 2026,” which would have tied SNAP and other USDA funding to compliance requirements tied to immigration and other policy areas. Food Safety & Consumer Risk: A lawsuit alleges worms or parasites in SpaghettiOs, while another viral incident claims a Sam’s Club chocolate chip cookie contained a metal nut—both raising fresh questions about product handling and labeling. Agriculture Watch: USDA detected a second New World screwworm case in Texas, prompting quarantine and livestock movement inspections, with Florida’s past screwworm experience in the spotlight. Pet-Friendly Planning: Southwest Florida pet experts urged owners to include animals in storm plans, highlighting pet first-aid and evacuation readiness.

Livestock & Supply Chain: USDA confirmed a second New World screwworm case in south Texas, triggering a quarantine and Canada’s temporary livestock ban from Texas—raising fresh alarm for cattle producers and potential beef-price pressure. Florida Policy & Education: Florida is proposing rules that could restrict immigrant students’ access to adult education and state colleges, with critics warning the language is too vague and could block eligible learners. Food Industry & Dining: A new Mexican concept, RuRu’s Tacos & Tequila, is set to open in Lake Worth this summer, replacing a long-closed bar-and-grill with movie-themed menu names. Local Food Culture: West Tampa’s Cuban sandwich spot earned recognition for outstanding sandwiches, highlighting Florida’s continued love for classic comfort foods. Theme Parks & Drinks: Gatorland launched a Crooked Can craft beer exclusive to the park, adding a new beverage draw for visitors. Agriculture Tech: US Sugar deployed autonomous John Deere tractors across south Florida to run 24/7, aiming for higher accuracy and productivity. Restaurant Closures: Applebee’s will permanently close its Calexico location on June 16, part of broader chain contraction. Environment & Health: A lawsuit challenges Florida’s “Alligator Alcatraz” detention site over alleged diesel emissions impacting the Everglades.

Father’s Day Dining: Brevard-area restaurants are rolling out specials for June 21, including bison burgers, BBQ chicken, ribs and live music, plus a local fire that’s spurred community fundraising for The Tiny Turtle and Junk Food Bakery. Food Safety Lawsuit: An Okeechobee woman filed suit against Campbell Soup and Walmart alleging worms/parasites in SpaghettiOs and claiming serious illness for her and her daughter. Agriculture & Supply Chain Watch: Florida enacted emergency rules tightening warm-blooded animal imports after New World screwworm was confirmed in Texas, with officials warning of major livestock risk if it takes hold. Local Food & Community: Second Harvest honored a Big Bend volunteer of the year for warehouse and food distribution work, while Southwest Florida school districts expanded free summer meal kits for kids. Invasive Species Alert: Residents in Dundee reported sightings of invasive tegu lizards, raising concerns for pets and native wildlife. Fresh From Florida: A new “Fresh From Florida” segment spotlights Florida blueberries in pancakes and compotes.

New Restaurant Opening: Twin Peaks is set to open its first Kissimmee lodge in Poinciana Place Shopping Center, bringing a scratch-made menu, two full-service bars, and an enclosed patio—plus hiring for the sports-and-game-day crowd. Seafood Industry Hiring: Tristan International named Ethan Gerber national account manager as the company targets growth and doubles storage/processing capacity in Florida. Food Safety Lawsuit: A Florida mother and daughter claim they found live worms in SpaghettiOs and are suing Campbell’s and Walmart, alleging illness and improper inspection; both companies say the claims lack merit. Community Food Access: Second Harvest’s Mobile Farmers Market distributed 5,490 pounds of produce in Volusia County over its first year, reaching 313 residents and filling 549 produce prescriptions. Energy Drink Scrutiny: Texas AG Ken Paxton launched an investigation into Celsius/Alani Nu marketing to kids over high caffeine levels. Wildlife & Public Health: Charlotte County issued a rabies advisory after a raccoon tested positive, urging residents to avoid wild animals and keep pets vaccinated.

Hunger Relief Under Pressure: Central Florida food banks warn that hurricane season and higher operating costs are squeezing already-tight supplies, with families facing a bigger summer hunger gap. New Shop Opening: PopUp Bagels is launching its first Viera location in Brevard, bringing its small, unsliced “dip-and-go” bagels and rotating schmears to The Crossings at Viera. Community Food Drive: Jennifer’s Boutique is running a June food drive for Community Cooperative, offering 20% off for shoppers who donate 10+ non-perishables. Viral Fundraiser Turns Into Real Help: A Vietnamese restaurant owner who went viral for refusing payment after giving a free meal has received a home thanks to a fundraiser. Livestock Alarm: USDA confirmed a New World screwworm case in south Texas, prompting heightened attention for Florida cattle import rules and response planning. Food Safety Watch: Inspectors found live roaches and multiple violations at a restaurant in The Villages, leading to stop-sale orders. Beverage Trend: Aroma Joe’s in Cape Coral is rolling out “dirty soda” for summer with four signature flavors. Local Dining Business News: The Alva Country Diner found new owners and will stay open after a potential late-July closure.

Food Safety & Litigation: A Florida woman filed a federal lawsuit against Campbell’s and Walmart alleging SpaghettiOs contained “worms or parasites actively moving,” claiming serious illness after a June 2024 purchase. Retail Sanitation: Florida halted food deliveries to a Coral Springs 7-Eleven after inspectors found rodent droppings near drink dispensers and a dead rodent in traps, with stop-use/stop-sale orders still in effect. Livestock Biosecurity: USDA confirmed New World screwworm in a Texas calf, triggering quarantines and expanded surveillance; officials stress it doesn’t infest food but threatens cattle. Dairy Import Rules: Florida tightened emergency requirements for dairy cattle entering the state amid H5N1 concerns, citing Idaho detections and reinforcing that pasteurized milk is considered safe. Local Dining Business: Alva Country Diner in Southwest Florida was sold for just under $950,000, with new owners signaling they’ll preserve the classic menu and hometown feel. Health Policy & Treatment: FDA greenlit a first human trial of kratom’s mitragynine for opioid use disorder, with University of Florida researchers involved. Community Food Support: A Marion County pastor in Ocala is distributing thousands of pounds of food weekly to families facing rising grocery costs, partnering with Second Harvest Food Bank. Hurricane Prep: Florida Power & Light and state emergency guidance urged residents to plan early—review evacuation routes, keep gas topped off, and prepare for pets and medical needs.

USDA Response: USDA confirmed the first New World screwworm case in the U.S. since 1966, detected in a 3-week-old calf in La Pryor, Texas, triggering quarantines, movement controls, and expanded surveillance; officials stress the food supply isn’t at risk. Food Safety Lawsuit: A Florida family sued Campbell’s and Walmart over alleged live worms/parasite-like organisms in SpaghettiOs, claiming serious illness after eating the product. FDA Outbreak Watch: FDA is investigating two new foodborne illness outbreaks—Listeria (8 sick) and Cyclospora (7 sick)—while continuing work on Salmonella cases linked to moringa supplement capsules. Local Dining/Health: A stop-sale order hit Brownwood Hotel and Spa in The Villages after inspectors found moldy mushrooms and other high-priority kitchen issues. Community Food & Support: United Way of Lee, Hendry and Glades faces a $1.6M shortfall that could affect programs, with a $250,000 boost from Lee Health Foundation. Agri/Industry Expansion: Bad Ass Coffee of Hawaii says it’s growing via non-traditional formats (kiosks, trucks, venue/captive-audience locations), including Florida presence.

Local Regulation: Coral Gables is moving to rein in food-delivery robots after complaints about sidewalk safety and accessibility, including a 7 mph limit, pedestrian right-of-way rules, and limits on loitering. World Cup Hospitality: Adega Gaucha (Orlando and Kissimmee) will host viewing events for Brazil’s first three 2026 World Cup group matches, with a ticketed food-and-drink package. Food Safety Lawsuit: A Florida mother and daughter sue Campbell’s and Walmart over alleged SpaghettiOs contamination with “actively moving” worms/parasites, claiming parasitic illness and seeking damages under federal food-safety law. Industry Updates: Copeland’s of Jacksonville finishes a full remodel, including new bathrooms, to refresh the guest experience. Consumer/Health Tech: USF beach volleyball alum Addison Bounds launches Elora, aiming to detect drink spiking with miniature sensors in jewelry. Agriculture Protection: Florida Agriculture Commissioner Wilton Simpson issues emergency H5N1 dairy cattle import/testing restrictions to protect the state’s food supply. Tourism Pressure: A survey suggests World Cup hotel bookings in US host cities are softer than expected, with Miami comparatively less impacted.

New Restaurant Openings: MINA Group’s Acqua Bistecca debuts on Estero Bay in Saltleaf, pairing wood-fired steaks and handmade pasta with waterfront views and weekend brunch/live music. Food Safety & Recalls: FDA and CDC reopened a salmonella probe tied to imported moringa leaf powder supplements after additional illnesses, bringing the total to 119 sick across 36 states. Public Health & Animal Health: A UGA study finds wild snakes in Georgia, Florida and South Carolina carrying multiple pathogens—over half with Salmonella—raising extinction concerns. Invasive Species: Florida relaunches the 10-day Florida Python Challenge July 10–19 with a $10,000 top prize to remove Burmese pythons in approved areas. Community Nutrition: Putnam County School District’s summer feeding program targets 189,000 meals for kids 18 and younger, no application needed. Policy Watch: Florida lawmakers advanced a constitutional property tax amendment to the November ballot, aiming to raise the homestead exemption to $250,000.

New Menu Buzz (Coffee/Drinks): Aroma Joe’s rolled out “Dirty Soda” across all 135 locations, with customizable bases (Dr. Pepper, Coke, Diet Coke, Sprite, Ginger Ale) and four signature flavors. Franchise Growth (Florida): Little Greek Fresh Grill signed a deal to expand in the Miami/Fort Lauderdale area, targeting up to 30 locations over 10 years, and highlighted its rebuilt Tropicana Field reopening. Fast-Casual Expansion (Beyond Florida): Slim Chickens opened a drive-thru-only “Fly-Thru” location in Kentucky, continuing its push for flexible formats. Local Dining (Inspections): Lee County restaurant health checks for May 25–31 showed 8 restaurants and 7 food trucks earning perfect scores, while 17 failed inspections. Food Safety (Recall): A nationwide recall hit Motor City Pizza Co. 5 Cheese Bread due to possible Salmonella contamination. Community & Food Access (Hurricane Season): FPL and Community Cooperative assembled 500 hurricane preparedness meal kits for Southwest Florida seniors. Wildlife Safety (Outdoor/Community): Port St. Lucie police issued bear-sighting guidance after a black bear was spotted in a residential Town Park community. Food Culture (Donuts): DoorDash’s National Donut Day list named two Florida shops—Donut Kingdom (Tallahassee) and Okaloosa Donuts (Fort Walton Beach). Restaurant Openings (Florida): Sweet Tomatoes reopened in Fort Myers, bringing back the salad buffet concept after its Tucson relaunch.

Hurricane Preparedness: With Atlantic hurricane season officially starting June 1, Tampa Bay meteorologist Paul Dellegatto and National Hurricane Center experts say 2026 may be below normal, but one storm can still be catastrophic—so Floridians are urged to stock non-perishables, plan evacuation routes, and prepare for storm surge and flooding. Local Food & Culture: “Florida Talks” is bringing America 250 food-history programming to St. Lucie Village School on June 13, pairing an interactive talk on Florida’s food stories with the “Red, White & FOOD” exhibition. Dining Recognition: Michelin’s 2026 Florida rollout spotlights Central Florida, including Orlando’s Kadence and Camille earning stars, plus a long Bib Gourmand list of quality spots. Agriculture & Land Protection: Florida Agriculture Commissioner Wilton Simpson backed a record $425M investment to protect working farms via development-rights conservation easements. Restaurant News: Cocoa Beach’s Tiny Turtle and nearby eateries were hit by a May 29 fire, with owners and neighbors mobilizing to salvage food and support a quick recovery. New Openings: Sirocco Station, a Lebanese street-food concept, is slated for later this year at The Avenue Viera. Policy Watch: Advocates warn DeSantis’ proposed property tax changes could slash local government revenues, raising concerns for services that support communities and small businesses. Workplace Safety Staffing: A national look at EHS/safety manager roles highlights how expanding OSHA requirements are pushing employers toward more centralized compliance systems.