The RegenCircle Newscast 9.17

100% of Organic Coffee Tests Positive for Traces of Glyphosate. McDonalds makes a $200M committment over 7 years to regenerative practives on cattle ranches. Stock the Trailer donated a record 233,500 pounds of food, Meanwhile, new job opportunities are emerging across the food and nutrition sector.

September 17, 2025

Start Listening: Updates on RegenCircle Newscast 🎙️

This week on the newscast, we’re breaking down biggest stories from the past two weeks, covering must-know updates on new technology, investment, consumer products, policy and human interest stories. From investments to human interest pieces, politics to events you won't want to miss it.

This Week’s Investment News

Edacious and Regenerative Organic Alliance Team Up to Measure Nutritional Impact of Regenerative Organic Certified® Agriculture

Photo Credit: Prepared Foods

Edacious and the Regenerative Organic Alliance (ROA) have partnered to analyze over 200 Regenerative Organic Certified® (ROC™) food products through the Edacious Food Lab over four years. This collaboration aims to evaluate the nutritional quality and toxicity of ROC™ crops compared to conventional, organic, and regenerative non-organic methods. The partnership seeks to provide measurable nutrient data, supporting the shift towards farming practices that enhance ecosystem restoration and produce healthier food. ROA members will gain access to Edacious' testing services, promoting transparency in the nutritional value of regenerative organic farming.

A New Financing Vehicle that Advocates for Systems Level Shifts: Introducing DiversiFund

Photo Credit: DiversiFund

DiversiFund is an innovative investment vehicle aimed at transforming the financing of regenerative food systems. Strategically guided by Transformational Investing in Food Systems (TIFS) and managed by Front Hill Partners, the fund utilizes years of TIFS' research to blend capital with innovative structures. This approach seeks to revolutionize how regenerative agriculture is funded, with a flexible financing vehicle tailored for use in system-based approaches. Aiming for $100 million in capital commitments in 2026, this investment fund tackles the barriers that have been identified by TIFS as blocking the transition of our food systems: lack of regional infrastructure, limited capital access, missing data, mispriced risk, and devalued natural assets. Existing financial markets have not been able to overcome these barriers, especially when they have not been seen as seperate parts of the same problem.

The National Geographic Society and PepsiCo Launch New Food for Tomorrow Program Focused on Science, Storytelling and Education

The National Geographic Society and PepsiCo have launched the "Food for Tomorrow" program to promote regenerative agriculture through science, storytelling, and education. This initiative supports National Geographic Explorers in highlighting sustainable farming practices. PepsiCo aims to adopt regenerative practices across 10 million acres by 2030. The program will fund scientific grants, develop data visualization tools, and feature stories of farmers embracing regenerative agriculture. Notable Explorers include Pablo Albarenga and Caitlin Ochs, among others, who will document these efforts. The initiative seeks to inspire sustainable food choices and bolster food system resilience.

McDonald’s restaurant signs are shown in East Palestine, Ohio, Feb 9, 2023 (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar, File)

McDonalds Announces $200 Million Dollar Investment to Promote Regenerative Practices on Cattle Ranches

A somewhat vague release has captured the excitment of many, McDonalds appears to have pledged a very significant investment to the tune of $200 Million over the next 7 years to ‘promote regenerative agriculture practices’ on cattle ranches. This investment is aimed at accelerating regenerative grazing and water wildlife concervation on ranches spanning 4 million acres in 38 states. This marks their largest investment in the sector to-date though they have funded research and implementation of regenerative practices on potato farms in Canada and Europe.

Political + Policy News

Photo Credit: Organic Insider

EPA Proposal: Taxpayers, not Corporations, to Pay for “Forever Chemicals” Cleanup

The EPA has proposed a plan for cleaning up "forever chemicals" (PFAS) contamination, suggesting that the financial burden should fall on taxpayers rather than corporations. This proposal has sparked debate, as critics argue that polluting companies should be responsible for the cleanup costs. This shift in financial responsibility could impact funding allocations for other environmental and agricultural programs.

Photo Credit: USDA

Secretary Rollins Announces Farm to School Grants Supporting American Farmers and Children

The USDA announced the opening of applications for the FY 2026 Patrick Leahy Farm to School Grants, investing up to $18 million to connect farmers with child nutrition programs. This initiative aims to provide nutritious meals to children and support local agriculture. Since 2013, $100 million has been awarded to over 1,200 projects and notibly this years grant is the largest to-date for this program. Applications close on December 5, 2025.

Political + Policy News [Continued]

Photo Credit: New Hope Network

Newtopia Now session tackles tariffs, other top issues facing conscious CPG

The Newtopia Now session addressed critical issues impacting conscious consumer packaged goods (CPG), focusing on tariffs and their effects on regenerative agriculture. The session emphasized the importance of political events that influence trade policies and their implications for the CPG industry. Participants explored strategies to navigate these challenges, underscoring the need for collaboration between policymakers and industry leaders to promote environmental sustainability and economic resilience in the sector.

Photo Credit: Adobe Stock

Rhetoric Vs. Reality

The Trump administration released the MAHA strategy report, aiming to address America's chronic disease issues, particularly in children. However, the report's 128 recommendations, such as front-of-pack food labeling and limiting kids' food marketing, are criticized for being vague and lacking regulatory power. Notably, the strategy avoids addressing key issues like sugar and seed oils, despite prior rhetoric from MAHA leaders. The strategy's perceived industry-friendly stance, especially concerning pesticides, has drawn criticism from health and consumer groups, highlighting a disconnect between MAHA's rhetoric and the actual strategy.

REPORTS WORTH READING

Photo Credit: Rutgers University

A Breakthrough in Soil & Plant Science

Researchers at Rutgers University, led by Dr. James White, have made a significant breakthrough in soil and plant science, demonstrating that soil microbes enter plant root hair cells and nuclei to unlock genetic expressions related to taste, flavor, and nutrient density. This discovery emphasizes the critical role of microbes in soil health and plant development, highlighting their impact on food quality. The research underscores the importance of preserving microbial life in soil, as it can enhance plant genetic potential and reduce reliance on artificial inputs, aligning closely with regenerative agriculture principles.

Photo Credit: Agri World View

Regenerative Organic Agriculture Approaches 20 Million Acres, Delivering Market Growth and Measurable Climate Impact

Regenerative Organic Agriculture, reaching nearly 20 million acres, is demonstrating significant market growth and climate impact. Brands like Lundberg Family Farms and Applegate show that sustainable farming is profitable and scalable. Regenerative Organic Certified® (ROC™) products have seen a 45% growth, with retail sales up $20 million. Over 320 brands and 67,000 farms in 46 countries use regenerative practices to improve soil health, sequester carbon, and restore biodiversity. ROC™ prohibits harmful chemicals, enhancing environmental benefits. This movement is transitioning from niche to mainstream, proving its potential in addressing climate change.

Photo Credit: Yahoo News Canada

100% of Organic Coffee Tested Positive for AMPA, a Glyphosate Byproduct

The Clean Label Project Released a study which found that 100% of organic coffee samples tested positive for the chemical AMPA, a byproduct of Glyphosate, raising concerns about its presence even in organic products. Glyphosate is prohibited in Organic agriculture and yet when testing 57 coffee products from 45 of the nation’s leading brands every sample had contamination. This contamination is likely coming from farmers spraying areas surrounding their farms with glyphosate, from water runoff contamination or wind bringing the chemical from neighboring farms. This is a major wakeup call for the prevalance of this chemical in one of America’s most beloved products.

HUMAN INTEREST STORIES

Photo Credit: Perishable News

School Meals Serve as Lifeline as 1 in 3 Parents Worried about Putting Food on the Table for Kids

A new report by No Kid Hungry highlights the struggles faced by families, with 1 in 3 parents worried about affording food over summer due to rising costs and job losses. Over 3 in 5 parents find school meals crucial for their families, reducing financial and mental stress. School meal programs enhance children's academic focus and attendance, providing essential support for families living paycheck to paycheck. Public figures like Tan France and Tiffany Derry join No Kid Hungry to raise awareness. The initiative has provided over 374 million meals nationwide in the 2023-2024 school year.

Photo Credit: National Catholic Report

Vatican puts Pope Francis' ecological preaching into practice with vocational farm center

The Vatican has implemented Pope Francis' ecological teachings by establishing a vocational training farm center. This initiative aims to educate individuals on sustainable agriculture and regenerative practices. It serves as a living example of Pope Francis' encyclical "Laudato Si'," which calls for environmental stewardship. The center highlights the Church's commitment to ecological responsibility, demonstrating the integration of faith with action. By training people in sustainable methods, the Vatican supports global efforts to combat climate change and promote environmental health, reflecting an inspiring blend of spirituality and ecological awareness.

Photo Credit: Hoosier Ag Today

Fight Hunger, Stock the Trailer Donates Record 233,500 Pounds of Food

This summer, Indiana's 4-H youth leaders broke records by collecting 233,500 pounds of food for 70 state food banks through the Fight Hunger, Stock the Trailer initiative. Sponsored by Farm Credit Mid-America and Rural 1st, this competition spurred community involvement and support. Lake County led with 75,122 pounds, and numerous other counties contributed significantly. The initiative highlights youth leadership in addressing food insecurity, with Farm Credit Mid-America's ongoing support for rural communities and agriculture, showcasing a commitment of nearly $4.5 million in 2024 to various impactful programs.

TECH

Photo Credit: Ereni LLC

 London biotech rethinking breast milk raises £2.5m

BoobyBiome, a London-based biotech firm, has raised £2.5m to enhance infant health through its research on breast milk microbiomes. As a spinout from University College London, the startup targets infant health issues like allergies and diabetes by improving microbiome development. BoobyBiome offers a breast milk storage system preserving health benefits and a live microbiome drop for formula-fed babies. The funding, led by Empirical Ventures, supports BoobyBiome's mission to revolutionize infant feeding and ensure equal health access for all babies.

Photo Credit: Carbon Herald

New AgreenaGro Platform Supports Farmers in Transition to Regenerative Agriculture

Agreena has launched AgreenaGro, a digital platform aimed at aiding UK farmers in transitioning to regenerative agriculture amidst rising costs and climate challenges. The platform offers financial and ecological benefits by promoting practices that reduce emissions and improve soil health. It provides tools like Map My Farm for automated data collection, RegenAg Score for sustainability tracking, and RegenMatch for peer support. Additionally, it integrates with farm management systems and offers monetization opportunities through carbon credits. Agreena plans to enhance the platform with AI for real-time agronomic insights.

Photo Credit: ESG Dive

How soil accounting software can help improve carbon offsetting’s credibility

Perennial CEO emphasizes the role of soil accounting software in enhancing the credibility of carbon offsetting within regenerative agriculture. Their software offers precise measurement and tracking of soil carbon levels, aiding in the verification of carbon credits. Technological advancements, such as satellite imagery and machine learning, support these tools by providing accurate data analysis and monitoring. Innovations in this field are crucial for ensuring transparency and accountability, ultimately bolstering the effectiveness of carbon offset programs and promoting sustainable agricultural practices.

CONSUMER PRODUCTS

Photo Credit: Stock Image

From field to aisle: Regenerative won’t work without supply chain buy-in

The article highlights how regenerative agriculture is shifting from a farm-level practice to a full supply-chain movement. A prime example is Heartland Craft Grains’ partnership with Grown Climate Smart, which places regenerative seals directly on products. This evolution is crucial: scaling regenerative farming depends not only on farmers, but on the active participation of producers, ingredient handlers, retailers, and consumers alike.

Photo Credit: Global Coffee Reo

Rainforest Alliance reveals new certification for coffee

The Rainforest Alliance has introduced a new Regenerative Agriculture Standard aimed at helping coffee farmers and companies restore ecosystems and build resilient businesses in tropical environments. Set to be implemented in early 2026, the certification will allow farms and companies to display a regenerative agriculture seal on their packaging, indicating a commitment to enriching the land and the livelihoods of those dependent on it. Initially targeting coffee, the certification will expand to cocoa, citrus, and tea later in 2026. The initiative responds to challenges like extreme weather and environmental degradation affecting coffee farmers, particularly smallholders who produce over 70% of the world's coffee. The Standard is already being applied in Brazil, Costa Rica, Mexico, and Nicaragua, with companies preparing to launch certified products by 2026. The Rainforest Alliance emphasizes the need for agriculture to transition from a "do no harm" approach to one that actively repairs and restores ecosystems.

World News

Photo Credit: Agriland

MEP: ‘Commission proposal would slash €83 billion from the CAP

Independent Ireland MEP, Ciaran Mullooly, has raised concerns about significant cuts to the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) amid discussions on regenerative agriculture in Europe. The European Economic and Social Committee (EESC) released a report advocating for regenerative agriculture to enhance sustainable food production, climate resilience, and soil health. However, Mullooly questions how these goals can be achieved with proposed €83 billion cuts to CAP. The EESC report calls for a common EU definition of regenerative agriculture and alignment of CAP funding to incentivize positive environmental outcomes. Concerns were also raised about trade deals like Mercosur.

Photo Credit: Nature.COM

A revolution is sweeping Europe’s farms: can it save agriculture?

Farmers across the continent are increasingly adopting practices such as cover cropping, minimal tillage, and crop diversification to restore soil health, enhance biodiversity, and strengthen resilience against extreme weather events like droughts and wildfires. Scientific research is adding weight to this shift, showing that regenerative methods can increase soil organic carbon, improve water quality, and boost biodiversity. Some studies even suggest that regenerative farms may achieve higher profit margins by reducing dependence on synthetic inputs.

JOB BOARD RECAP

UPCOMING EVENTS

  • World Dairy Expo

    Dates: September 30th

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    The World Dairy Expo, starting September 30th, features Jim Mulhern, National Milk Producers Federation leader, discussing his career and industry changes. Juan Moreno, CEO of STgenetics, is honored as the 2025 International Person of the Year for advancements in dairy breeding. The event celebrates significant contributions to the dairy industry.

  • UMN & NDSU Soil Management Summit

    Dates: January 2026

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    The University of Minnesota and NDSU Extension will host the Soil Management Summit and Dakota Innovation Research and Technology Conference on January 14-15, 2026, in Fargo, ND. The event will cover topics like cover crops, tillage practices, and soil biology, featuring farmer insights and research discussions.

  • Webinar to Share Beekeeping Tips for Beginners & Experts

    Date: October 9th | ONLINE

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    The Iowa State University Extension's Urban Agriculture Program will host a free webinar, "Beekeeping Strategies for Beginners," on Oct. 9, led by beekeeper Julia McGuire. It will cover beekeeping strategies, phenological planning, and ecological thinking, followed by a live Q&A session. Registration is required.

  • Filling Gaps in the Local Food Supply Chain

    Date: September 20th

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    The MKE-Waukesha Chapter of the Wisconsin Farmers Union is hosting "Filling Gaps in the Local Food Supply Chain" on September 20 at Village Farmstead, Oak Creek, WI. The event will explore collaborative aggregation strategies to enhance the local food system, featuring a farm tour, panel discussion, and networking.

  • Pennsylvania Sheep and Wool Festival

    Date: October 2025

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    The inaugural Pennsylvania Sheep and Wool Festival, highlighting the state's sheep and wool heritage, will be held on October 11-12, 2025, at the Dayton Fairgrounds. The event features live demonstrations, educational seminars, and competitions, with involvement from Penn State Extension and local organizations.

  • Women in Agribusiness Summit 2025

    Date: September 22nd-24th

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    The Women in Agribusiness Summit 2025 will be held at the Hyatt Regency Orlando from August 27th. Attendees can book discounted accommodations at the event hotel and receive special flight discounts through Delta Air Lines using the Meeting Event Code: NM4MK.

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