CALGARY - Agrium Inc. says spring's late arrival to North America could be a major challenge, as farmers who buy fertilizers, seeds and other agricultural products from the company have less time to get their crops in the ground. "The weather has clearly not been conducive to farmers preparing and feeding their fields across North America so far this spring," said chief operating officer Chuck Magro on a conference call with analysts Thursday. As of May 5, only 12 per cent of the U.S. corn crop was seeded — the slowest rate since 1984, he said.

HALIFAX - Hundreds of lobster boats remained tied up at wharfs throughout the Maritimes on Friday as fishermen and processors struggle with an industry beset by an oversupply of the crustaceans, rock-bottom prices and a strong Canadian dollar. The fishermen's association in P.E.I. said boats did not head out for a third day in a row over prices that dipped to about $2.75 a pound for small canner lobsters and $3.25 a pound for the larger, market ones.

LAS VEGAS, Nev. - A new report shows 200 people reported food poisoning symptoms after dining at one of Las Vegas' most popular restaurants about a block off the Strip. Southern Nevada Health District data released Friday show the salmonella outbreak at the Firefly restaurant in late April was more extensive than previously thought. An earlier report showed nearly 90 people sick. Officials say patrons reporting illness hailed from 20 different states and two foreign countries.

Here's a look at the major food-related events around the world. MesaméricaMay 21-22Mexico City, Mexico A culinary event aimed at promoting Mexican cuisine and gastronomy, Mesamérica will bring a veritable constellation of superstar chefs this year, with a roster that includes Daniel Humm, Alex Atala, Gaston Acurio, Andoni Luis Aduriz, René Redzepi, Jordi Roca, and Massimo Bottura. Participants are predominantly students and professionals in the industry.http://www.mesamerica.mx World Tea ExpoJune 7-9Las Vegas, NV, USA