Beef Settlement: People in the United States who bought beef between August 1, 2014 and December 31, 2019 may get money in the future. This comes from a big antitrust lawsuit. The case claims that some of the largest meat companies worked together instead of competing. Because of this, beef prices stayed higher than they should have.
The lawsuit names many well-known meat companies. These include JBS USA Food Company, Swift Beef Company, JBS Packerland, Cargill, Cargill Meat Solutions Corporation, National Beef Packing Company, Tyson Foods and Tyson Fresh Meats. The case says these companies agreed not to compete fairly and hurt regular shoppers.
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Big Settlement Money but No Payments Yet
Some companies have already agreed to pay large amounts to settle the case. Tyson Foods and Tyson Fresh Meats agreed to pay $55 million. Cargill agreed to pay $32.5 million. Together, the total money set aside for consumers is $87.5 million.
Even with this money ready, no one will get paid right now. A federal court in Minnesota will hold a fairness hearing on May 12, 2026. A judge will decide if the settlements are fair and should move forward. Lawyers say that even after approval, appeals and paperwork could delay payments.
This is not the first time Tyson has faced such claims. In October 2025, Tyson agreed to pay $85 million to settle another case. That case accused the company of working with others to raise pork prices. Media groups asked the companies for comments, but they did not reply.
Who can Claim and What Beef Counts
The case covers fresh or frozen beef made from main cuts like chuck, loin, rib or round. People must have bought the beef in the United States during the stated time period to qualify.
Some beef products do not count under this agreement. These excluded products are listed below:
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- Premium meats like Wagyu, American-style Kobe or 100% grass-fed
- Specialty certified meats such as USDA Prime, organic, kosher, halal or antibiotic-free
- Processed meats including ground beef, marinated, seasoned, breaded or fully cooked items
Shoppers who qualify will likely need to prove they bought covered beef products. Millions of consumers are now waiting for the court’s decision.
