Total layers during December 2013 averaged 351 million, up 2 percent from last year.

Poults hatched, placed also decline for the month.

Ranchers and farmers need to prepare for a significant drought year, officials said.

The company has been challenged by hog shortage.

Chicks placed recorded slight gains during the same period.

The company is consolidating poultry operations.

The grocery chain will offer Murray's Chicken, which is verified non-GMO.

Poultry processors may need more pathogen intervention strategies to comply with federal regulations.

Exports of US beef set a new record for value in the month.

The acquisition positions Darling as a leading global firm in bio-nutrient recovery and conversion.