Jennifer Shike

As the brand leader of Farm Journal’s PORK and host of “The PORK Podcast,” Jennifer Shike pairs her deep animal science expertise with a heart for the people in the pork industry. Her work is a vital resource on swine health and biosecurity, reporting on threats such as PRRS, PED and African swine fever. By keeping a close watch on national and state policy, she translates trade deals, California’s Proposition 12, environmental regulations and farm bill updates into what they mean for American pork producers.

Latest Stories

Industry

A $10.4 Trillion Engine: Agriculture Drives One-Fifth of the U.S. Economy

After a nearly $900 billion surge in growth over the past year, the U.S. food and agriculture industry continues to serve as a primary engine for national commerce, trade and local economic stability across every state, a new study shows.

March 31, 2026 09:43 AM

Jennifer Shike

USMEF Sees Massive Upside for U.S. Beef and Pork in Ecuador.jpg

Industry

The Next Guatemala? USMEF Sees Massive Upside for U.S. Beef and Pork in Ecuador

A new reciprocal trade agreement with Ecuador is set to transform a minimal market into a promising opportunity for U.S. beef and pork producers.

March 31, 2026 08:16 AM

Jennifer Shike

Industry

What’s Driving Grow-Finish Profitability in 2026?

As construction costs for a standard finishing barn approach $1 million, experts discuss how today’s contract growers can protect their ROI through enhanced biosecurity, manure management and a heightened focus on the first 48 hours of pig reception.

March 31, 2026 09:28 AM

Jennifer Shike

Hog Production

From the Front Lines to the Finishing Barn

After two decades of military service and multiple deployments, Michael Williford discovered that the discipline of a soldier and the demands of a hog barn were a perfect match for his next chapter.

March 27, 2026 03:03 PM

Jennifer Shike

Hog Production

Sow Longevity: New Study Confirms Critical Management Triggers for Pelvic Organ Prolapse

Genetic selection is a viable tool for reducing incidence of pelvic organ prolapse, but research shows body condition score and perineal score need to be part of the solution.

March 27, 2026 01:12 PM

Jennifer Shike

Hog Production

March Hogs and Pigs Report: Record Litter Rates Offset Smallest Breeding Herd Since 2014

While the U.S. breeding herd continues to contract, record-breaking productivity is keeping total inventory levels steady at 74.3 million head, according to the March 1 USDA Hogs and Pigs Report.

March 26, 2026 06:13 PM

Jennifer Shike

Industry

The Miracle Behind “Eddie”: Pig Breaks World Record Sale Price at $505,000

The story of Landry Mabry’s grand champion barrow is a testament to the power of the livestock community and the heart of the next generation of ag leaders.

March 26, 2026 03:52 PM

Jennifer Shike

Ag Policy

Pork in the Crosshairs: NPPC Responds as Mexico Launches Double Trade Case Against U.S.

Mexico has launched two aggressive investigations into imports of U.S. hams and shoulders. NPPC’s Maria Zieba breaks down the evidence, the potential for summer tariffs, and why the U.S. industry is preparing for a long fight to protect its most vital export market.

March 25, 2026 01:54 PM

Jennifer Shike

Industry

Florida Successfully Defends Lab-Grown Meat Ban in Court

After a federal appeals court ruling, Florida’s ban on cultivated meat remains in place, dealing a blow to the industry and reinforcing protections for livestock producers.

March 25, 2026 07:17 AM

Jennifer Shike

Industry

The Tenderloin King: How Jeff Buckler Achieved the American Dream

From selling commercial tires to serving up 2 lb. pork legends, Jeff Buckler shares how he sold 10,000 tenderloins in a year and put Sadorus, Ill., on the culinary map, one tin pan at a time.

March 24, 2026 02:45 PM

Jennifer Shike