Latest News From Pork

Why Pork is in the Crosshairs of Animal Rights Extremists
Why Pork is in the Crosshairs of Animal Rights Extremists

The pork community is in the crosshairs right now for the animal rights extremist community. Here's what you need to know.

Wild Pigs Kill More People Than Sharks, Shocking New Research Reveals
Wild Pigs Kill More People Than Sharks, Shocking New Research Reveals

It’s not sharks, wolves, or bears that kill the most people—it’s wild pigs, and the numbers are trending up.

Get the Facts Straight on Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza
Get the Facts Straight on Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza

Now that the mystery illness impacting some dairy herds has been revealed as the same strain of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza that has been impacting the U.S. poultry flock, pork producers are asking questions.

The Good, Bad and Ugly When it Comes to the Pork Industry Right Now
The Good, Bad and Ugly When it Comes to the Pork Industry Right Now

U.S. pork exports to Mexico hit the second-highest on record in January, while another major meat processor says it's shutting the doors on another pork processing plant as consolidation concerns continue to grow.

Let's Start Sizzling: 10 Ways to Express Your Love
Let's Start Sizzling: 10 Ways to Express Your Love

Need a good one-liner to make your valentine swoon? Try one these tested and true oaths of love featuring the best animal on the farm this Valentine's Day.

Who Needs Chocolate? Make a Bacon Bouquet for Your Sweetheart
Who Needs Chocolate? Make a Bacon Bouquet for Your Sweetheart

Say "I love you" with this tasty treat.

Illinois Farm Families Star in Super Bowl LVIII Commercial
Illinois Farm Families Star in Super Bowl LVIII Commercial

Super Bowl fans in Illinois will be able to cheer on some familiar faces in a commercial during the big game on Sunday. Illinois pork producer Chad Leman says the commercial is all about communicating trust in farmers.

New Study Shows Promise for Genetically Modified Pig Organ Transplants
New Study Shows Promise for Genetically Modified Pig Organ Transplants

An average of 17 people in the U.S. die every day waiting for a transplant. More than 100,000 are on a waiting list. After decades of experimenting, many doctors now see potential in genetically modified pig organs.

Winter Storm Survival: A Nightmare for Livestock Producers in Western Illinois
Winter Storm Survival: A Nightmare for Livestock Producers in Western Illinois

Despite nearly 24 inches of snow, below-zero temperatures and raging winds that some people are affectionately calling “Death Storm #2,” Illinois livestock producers are finding ways to overcome the horrific conditions.

USDA Hogs and Pigs Report: Is This a Defining Moment for the Pork Industry?
USDA Hogs and Pigs Report: Is This a Defining Moment for the Pork Industry?

With all that’s been talked about regarding 2023’s trials and tribulations in the pork industry, there may be one final question to ask as we flip the calendar. “Is this a defining moment?” asks economist Lee Schulz.

The Best Livestock-Themed Christmas Trees Full of Memories and Meaning
The Best Livestock-Themed Christmas Trees Full of Memories and Meaning

One of the things I love most about Christmas trees is the power they evoke to simply remember. Here are some special livestock-themed Christmas trees filled with memories to last a lifetime. 

Good News for the U.S. Pork Industry: It Can’t Be Worse in 2024
Good News for the U.S. Pork Industry: It Can’t Be Worse in 2024

If there’s any “good” news for 2024, economist Joe Kerns says it’s that it can’t be worse than 2023. Although economists expect 2024 to be another challenging year, some believe it will be a turning point for U.S. pork.

Special Alert: FSIS Extends Time-Limited Trials at NSIS Establishments
Special Alert: FSIS Extends Time-Limited Trials at NSIS Establishments

USDA Food Safety and Inspection Service announced on Tuesday that it will extend time-limited trials at USDA’s New Swine Slaughter Inspection System establishments. 

How to Build a Show-Stopping Charcuterie Board with Pork
How to Build a Show-Stopping Charcuterie Board with Pork

Whether you are serving a crowd or feeding your family during movie night, charcuterie is a trend that isn't going away anytime soon. This is good news for pork as everyone knows pork adds the flavor!

Turporken is the Thanksgiving Trifecta
Turporken is the Thanksgiving Trifecta

Turkey is o.k., but it's a far cry from a delicious holiday ham in my book. That's why I can't help but be intrigued by turporken.

Create a Level Playing Field for Farmers
Create a Level Playing Field for Farmers

Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack announced updates on how USDA plans to address the complex competition issues in agricultural markets in order to create a fairer playing field for small- and mid-size farmers.

How Two Pig Farmers Are Winning People Over to Pork Now
How Two Pig Farmers Are Winning People Over to Pork Now

Phillip Hord and Jessica Stevens are two examples of what happens when pig farmers think outside of the box to grow demand and build confidence in U.S. pork among consumers.

National FFA Convention and Expo: 8 Things to Know Before You Go
National FFA Convention and Expo: 8 Things to Know Before You Go

How is FFA growing the next generation of leaders who will change the world? For many, growth occurs during the National FFA Convention & Expo. Here are tips to help attendees (and family members) prepare.

Mississippi Hunter and Florida Trapper Survive Wild Pig Attacks
Mississippi Hunter and Florida Trapper Survive Wild Pig Attacks

“The public doesn’t realize what these animals are capable of,” says wildlife trapper James Dean. “Unfortunately, you’re going to see more and more reports of people getting hurt in wild pig encounters.”

Is More Vertical Integration, Consolidation Now Ahead? Why 2023 Could Change the Entire Pork Industry
Is More Vertical Integration, Consolidation Now Ahead? Why 2023 Could Change the Entire Pork Industry

As pork producers’ potential profits continue to erode this year, some economists say 2023 could be financially worse than 1998, which is unearthing concerns about contraction, restructuring and vertical integration.

Farm Stress Affects Kids, Too: Here’s What You Need to Know
Farm Stress Affects Kids, Too: Here’s What You Need to Know

It's no wonder farmers experience higher levels of anxiety and depression because of the many factors they deal with that are out of their control. But how does that affect their family? A new study sheds light.

The Path to a PRRS-Resistant Pig: A Look at What’s Next
The Path to a PRRS-Resistant Pig: A Look at What’s Next

Where is the pork industry on its path to a PRRS-resistant pig? Matt Culbertson, chief operating officer at PIC, provides an update.

Tyson Foods to Deploy Driverless Trucks in Arkansas
Tyson Foods to Deploy Driverless Trucks in Arkansas

Tyson Foods is deploying autonomous refrigerated box trucks to bolster Tyson routes in Northwest Arkansas. Operating 18 hours a day, these driverless trucks will deliver products to distribution and storage facilities.

A New Toxicant Tool Decreases Feral Hog Populations in Texas
A New Toxicant Tool Decreases Feral Hog Populations in Texas

Explosive numbers, deadly destruction, devastating economic impact. Is it possible to control the spiraling feral hog population in Texas? A new study shows a warfarin-based toxicant could help.

Breakthrough Discovery: Potential to Develop ASF-Resistant Pigs
Breakthrough Discovery: Potential to Develop ASF-Resistant Pigs

Scientists have illuminated a critical gene within pigs that plays a pivotal role in the infection process of the African Swine Fever virus, which opens up avenues for developing ASF-resistant pigs.

9 Rules Parents Throw Out the Window During Fair Week
9 Rules Parents Throw Out the Window During Fair Week

We try to be good parents by setting boundaries for our kids. We want to raise decent humans who are kind, make good choices and respect others. But let’s be real. During fair week, that all goes out the window.

It's Starting: Why Recent Processing Plant, Farm Closures Signal Major Consolidation is Now Underway for Pork and Poultry
It's Starting: Why Recent Processing Plant, Farm Closures Signal Major Consolidation is Now Underway for Pork and Poultry

Tyson Foods’ decision to shutter four poultry processing plants, combined with Smithfield Foods announcing the closure 35 Missouri pig farmers, are strong signals that rapid consolidation is already underway.

U.S. Livestock Producers Look to Latin America as a Growth Area for Red Meat Exports
U.S. Livestock Producers Look to Latin America as a Growth Area for Red Meat Exports

U.S. beef, pork and lamb producers are working on expanding red meat exports in Latin America based on the success they've had in Mexico and Columbia after signing trade agreements.

Op-Ed: How Fringe Animal Groups Threaten Food Production
Op-Ed: How Fringe Animal Groups Threaten Food Production

The anti-farmer movement now underway by fringe extremist groups is not pro-animal. It is extremism promoting regressive policies that will chip away at America's historically stable -- and affordable -- food supply.

Lusk Named New Dean of Oklahoma State's Division of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources
Lusk Named New Dean of Oklahoma State's Division of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources

Oklahoma State University announced Dr. Jayson Lusk as the new dean and vice president of its Division of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources. Lusk will succeed Dr. Tom Coon in early August. 

Tentative West Coast Port Labor Contract is Tremendous News for U.S. Red Meat
Tentative West Coast Port Labor Contract is Tremendous News for U.S. Red Meat

The tentative agreement that's been reached with the West Coast longshoremen is of paramount importance for U.S. red meat, says USMEF President and CEO Dan Halstrom. Here's why.

Worse Than 1998? Why Explosive Exports May Not Even Be Enough to Change the Course of Pork Prices
Worse Than 1998? Why Explosive Exports May Not Even Be Enough to Change the Course of Pork Prices

Economists say U.S. pork producers are faced with a 35% increase in costs with losses currently pegged at $40 per head. Even with strong pork exports, economists warn 2023 could be worse than 1998 for some producers.

Meet Two Pig Farmers Finding Unique Ways to Serve Up More Pork Demand
Meet Two Pig Farmers Finding Unique Ways to Serve Up More Pork Demand

While Ohio pig farmers Phillip Hord and Jessica Campbell’s operations may look different, driving demand is where their paths intersect. By bringing a new flavor to the farm, the producers are also driving pork demand.

Pork Exports Continue to Soar in April, Shipments to Mexico Smash Records for 2023
Pork Exports Continue to Soar in April, Shipments to Mexico Smash Records for 2023

The bright spot for the U.S. pork industry is currently pork exports, with U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF) reporting another strong pork export performance in April citing broad-based growth to several countries.

What's Next for the U.S. Pork Industry After Prop 12 Ruling?
What's Next for the U.S. Pork Industry After Prop 12 Ruling?

Pork producers are still digesting the Prop 12 decision handed down by the Supreme Court but at this point they have more questions than answers.   

Why Proposition 12 is Now Another Weight Pulling Down Pork Prices
Why Proposition 12 is Now Another Weight Pulling Down Pork Prices

While cattle prices continue to post contract highs, hog prices continue to see intense pressure, and it's creating a dismal outlook for pork profits this year. What's behind the price pressure? Analysts weigh in.

The Humble Hot Dog: What Your Mom Didn’t Tell You
The Humble Hot Dog: What Your Mom Didn’t Tell You

Despite their popularity, many people harbor some skepticism about hot dogs. They are unsure what exactly goes into this tasty treat. University of Illinois meat scientist Anna Dilger dives into what makes a hot dog.

Americans Love Meat and Say It's a Healthy Choice
Americans Love Meat and Say It's a Healthy Choice

A majority of Americans regularly eat meat and believe that it's a healthy choice, according to a recent poll that has some critics up in arms.

How a Livestock Barn Helped One Iowa School Flourish
How a Livestock Barn Helped One Iowa School Flourish

It’s one thing to tell students about livestock production; it’s another thing to show them. Here's why one Iowa school is turning heads and opening people's eyes to the opportunities in livestock production.

More Uncertainty for Pork Industry in a Very Uncertain Market
More Uncertainty for Pork Industry in a Very Uncertain Market

The Supreme Court’s ruling on Proposition 12 has added “a whole bunch more uncertainty to a very uncertain market,” said Lee Schulz, Iowa State University ag economist and Extension livestock specialist.

BREAKING: Tyson Foods to Eliminate 10% of Corporate Jobs, 15% of Senior Leaders
BREAKING: Tyson Foods to Eliminate 10% of Corporate Jobs, 15% of Senior Leaders

Tyson Foods Inc. will eliminate about 10% of corporate jobs and 15% of senior leadership roles, Chief Executive Donnie King told employees on Wednesday.

Pork Exports Gain Momentum; Beef Export Value Sets Annual Record
Pork Exports Gain Momentum; Beef Export Value Sets Annual Record

U.S. pork exports saw continued growth in November, posting the largest volume and value numbers of 2022. Despite a November slowdown, beef export value sets records in key markets. Here's a look at what's happening.

Meat and Poultry Production to Slow Despite 2022’s Robust Profits, CoBank Says
Meat and Poultry Production to Slow Despite 2022’s Robust Profits, CoBank Says

Most U.S. animal protein industry segments have posted phenomenal financial performance over the past three years. However, CoBank’s latest report says this broad-based profitability will likely come to an end in 2023.

A Surprise in the December Hogs and Pigs Report: Breeding Herd Increases
A Surprise in the December Hogs and Pigs Report: Breeding Herd Increases

Despite analysts’ pre-report expectations, for the first time in 2.5 years, the national swine breeding herd has seen a year-over-year increase, according to the Dec. 1 USDA Hogs & Pigs Report.

2023 Pork Outlook: A Recipe for Fireworks? 
2023 Pork Outlook: A Recipe for Fireworks? 

Of all the challenges coming at the U.S. pork industry in the year ahead, economists agree it likely won’t be the price of pigs. Here's what four industry experts have to say about the 2023 pork outlook.

Meet Mississippi’s Yawt Yawt, a Wild Pig’s Nightmare and Hunting Legend in the Making
Meet Mississippi’s Yawt Yawt, a Wild Pig’s Nightmare and Hunting Legend in the Making

Nobody does wild pigs like the Yawt Yawt, aka David Ellis. From backwoods redneck to rising star, Yawt Yawt delivers a rip-roaring hunt as the grim reaper of wild pigs.

Plant-Based Meat Alternatives: Is the Hype Over?
Plant-Based Meat Alternatives: Is the Hype Over?

Has the hype cooled for plant-based meat alternatives? Purdue economist Jayson Lusk thinks so. Here's why.

Food and Swine: A FarmHer's Love for Family, Ag and Food
Food and Swine: A FarmHer's Love for Family, Ag and Food

Cristen Clark is a FarmHer to be admired. If you’ve ever stumbled across her blog, Food and Swine, you know she loves her family, agriculture and food.

One Man's Journey From Fighter Pilot to Pig Farmer
One Man's Journey From Fighter Pilot to Pig Farmer

Scott Phillips isn't your average pig farmer. While he always wanted to farm, his journey through life has been an exhilarating ride as he served as a fighter pilot before returning to the family farm in Drexel, Mo.

National FFA Convention: Farm Journal's Inside Perspective
National FFA Convention: Farm Journal's Inside Perspective

Journalists weren’t the only ones in attendance representing Farm Journal at the National FFA Convention. This year, four Farm Journal “kids” were taking in one of agriculture’s finest events in the world.