Fact-checking claims made about Oklahoma’s lawsuit against Tyson Foods
As a judge issued a final order, the state’s attorney general and governor have criticized one another.
‘Could have been a hell of a lot worse’: At Nebraska plant, ADM allowed dangerous dust to build up beyond safe levels, recordings show
In late 2022, Archer Daniels Midland’s Fremont, Nebraska, facility experienced a dust explosion. Days later, federal safety inspectors found some areas inside with about an inch of combustible dust — about eight times the acceptable limit.
5 things to know: Our investigation into China’s shift to Latin American agriculture
Chinese companies are investing billions to buy more agricultural products from Brazil and other countries.
US ag exports drop in Asia, but increase in the Western Hemisphere
Since 2022, agriculture exports to China have decreased by more than 55%, but there have been increases to Canada, Mexico and some South American countries.
About Us
Investigate Midwest is an independent, nonprofit newsroom. Our mission is to serve the public as a watchdog over influential agricultural corporations and institutions through in-depth and data-driven investigative journalism. Learn more »
Expect more turmoil and change for the 2026 ag sector
Key trade agreements, the legality of the global trade war, Agri Stats’ antitrust case, more USDA moves, and rulings on dicamba and glyphosate predicted to grab industry headlines.
More Stories
Increased pesticide use in Illinois is killing native oaks
While the amount of acres of soybeans and corn has remained stable for the past 25 years, the use of pesticides in Illinois has doubled. The state’s oldest trees are getting sick from the drift.
These 17 charts tell the story of the US food system in 2025
A highlight of our most important data visualizations and what they say about the state of agriculture.
Trump promised to lower food prices, but they’re still going up
As he campaigned against Kamala Harris, Trump said he would “defeat inflation.” Egg prices have decreased, but beef is doing the opposite.
The best images from Investigate Midwest in 2025
These photos document the year’s most defining agriculture and labor stories, from wind farm projects and rising land values near Walmart’s headquarters to poultry farm expansion, Chicago’s food manufacturing sector, and the corporate reach of Jack Link’s.
Something went wrong. Please refresh the page and/or try again.
Opinion
Agriculturally speaking, 2025 has been one huge food fight
Longtime readers of this column know at year’s end I pick what I believe is the top agricultural story. But…
Iowans share life lessons at Investigate Midwest event
You’re invited to an evening of live storytelling featuring powerful, personal stories from five Iowa men with backgrounds in journalism, education, comedy, and the arts.
Iowa immigrants fear the Trump administration’s move toward mass deportation
The spread of misinformation has fueled anxiety and alarm within Iowa’s Latino immigrant community. It is estimated that the state is home to more than 52,000 undocumented immigrants.
Midwest farmers advocate for steady policies amid trade challenges
Recent trade policies have imposed tariffs to boost U.S. production, but Midwest agriculture has suffered, losing ground to competitors like Brazil in soybeans and pork. Farmers urge the new administration to prioritize free trade and stable agreements.
