The purchase would give Tyson more clout in the ever-consolidating food production, distribution and retail industries. Currently, the top five supermarket chains in the U.S. control nearly half the nation's grocery business. Their desire to streamline supply lines is forcing a consolidation wave in the food manufacturing industry. Further concentration of the meat industry will place more corporate power in fewer hands, which would both limit product choice and increase meat prices.
Environmental groups are concerned about both companies' violations of federal environmental laws.
Family farmers worry they will be unable to compete and will be forced off their farms. Trade unions whose workers have been hurt or sickened on the job fear the merger would further worsen working conditions. And other meat producers are concerned that the deal would adversely impact their ability to obtain fair prices for their products. Public Citizen urges Congress to hold comprehensive hearings into this matter and the U.S. Justice Department to block the merger because of its antitrust implications. The integrity of our nation's food supply depends on robust competition.