The Justice Department's antitrust division has launched a criminal investigation into major beef companies, examining whether they engaged in anticompetitive conduct in the cattle market. President Trump called for the probe last fall after accusing the companies of manipulating cattle prices.

Trump in November accused beef companies of driving up costs for consumers while suppressing prices paid to ranchers. Criminal antitrust cases typically target allegations of price-fixing, market collusion, or competitors rigging bids—a significant escalation from typical civil antitrust inquiries.

The investigation puts the meatpacking industry under heightened federal scrutiny. If prosecutors find evidence of criminal conduct, companies could face substantial fines and penalties. The probe stems directly from Trump's public accusations last year, marking a rare instance of a presidential request leading to a criminal antitrust inquiry.