Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer plans to introduce legislation that would break up meat processing companies and increase scrutiny of foreign ownership in the sector. The proposed bill represents a significant escalation in Democratic efforts to address consolidation in the agricultural industry.

Schumer's legislation would force major meat processors to split their operations, potentially dismantling the integrated business models that have dominated the industry for decades. The bill also includes provisions to scrutinize foreign ownership, raising concerns about national security and food supply chain control.

The move comes amid growing political pressure over meat industry pricing and supply chain vulnerabilities exposed during the pandemic. Industry groups are expected to mount strong opposition, arguing that consolidation has improved efficiency and kept food costs down.