Dennis DiPietre and Lance Mulberry

Dennis DiPietre (far left) and Lance Mulberry are economists with KnowledgeVentures, LLC. They consult with producers, processors, pharmaceutical companies, genetics firms, nutrition and technology providers throughout the global pork chain. The focus of their consultation is driving client innovation and optimization in precision agricultural processes through bio-economic modeling. Call (573) 875-7890 or email: dennis@precisionpork.com

Latest Stories
When you review the dynamics of the U.S. industry, most indicators are back to a normal “shape.” However, it’s too early to believe the global pork complex, especially the U.S., is returning to business as usual.
While there are lots of reasons to believe ASF in the Dominican Republic is not a sure sign it will penetrate the U.S. industry, still, everyone has become focused on it and how slippery it is to contain.
We are about ready to enter the next phase of the pandemic whipsaw with respect to prices. Pork producers are facing very high feed costs and market hog prices, which are beginning the inevitable re-entry back to Earth.
Even though spring brought a period of high profitability, the supports holding up the profit performance of the pork industry are subject to some weakness, says columnists Dennis DiPietre and Lance Mulberry.
What do the blockage of the Suez Canal for several days and the run on feta cheese resulting from a recipe that went viral have in common? They both place unexpected stresses on supply chains.
Feed prices have risen dramatically, exports are at record levels, cold storage is as empty as it gets, and hog prices are rising. But how do you put all of these pieces together to predict profitability?
Few producers in the U.S. even want to consider the fact that alternative proteins (aka “fake meat”) are a threat to their business in the foreseeable future. We want to try to change your mind on that.
Producers may need to re-examine the quality and detail of the data they collect and how it is managed and stored for future use. Avoid these five key impediments that may cause limited or reduced record collection.
During volatile times in the pork industry, one of the most critical relationships you can maintain (besides your packer) is the one with your lender. Here are five unwritten rules to improve that relationship.