1.   Even Springdale, Arkansas-based Tyson, traditionally the least affected by higher grain prices, has been hit hard.

2.   Food companies also were lower as analysts voiced some concern over the effect of higher grain prices.

3.   Grains are important ingredients in processed foods as well, but Adams said higher grain prices should have less impact on retail prices for those products.

4.   Higher grain costs will squeeze pork producers, according to the study.

5.   Higher grain costs have gobbled away at profits of many U.S. meat processors.

6.   Higher grain prices have pressured food processors to maintain profit margins through greater efficiency.

7.   Higher grain prices pinch livestock producers, who use corn and wheat to feed their animals.

8.   Higher grain production would benefit processors and exporters, including chicken producer Tyson Foods Inc. and food and commodities conglomerage Cargill Inc.

9.   Higher grain prices should push wholesale prices up a couple of pennies.

10.   Sharply higher grain prices next spring might not immediately affect consumers.