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

Hog Production

The Fall Effect: 4 Things You Can Do Now to Make Your Farm More Profitable

Fall creates its share of opportunities and challenges for pork producers. Four industry experts share helpful strategies to boost your farm’s health and productivity this fall.

November 04, 2025 11:35 AM

Jennifer Shike

Hog Production

Trade Barriers Limit Vital Export Opportunities for Pork Producers

In comments to the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative, NPPC listed 22 countries and the European Union as having varying tariff and/or non-tariff barriers limiting U.S. pork exports.

November 04, 2025 10:38 AM

Jennifer Shike

Industry

Job Cuts at Hormel Foods: Corporate Restructure Affects 250 Positions

The restructuring reflects an ongoing focus to balance cost discipline with reinvestment in areas critical to its future, the company says. Restructuring charges are estimated in the range of $20 million to $25 million.

November 04, 2025 08:58 AM

Jennifer Shike

Ag Policy

China Tariff Reduction is a Win for U.S. Pig Farmers

President Trump and President Xi Jinping of China reached a trade and economic deal that includes suspending retaliatory tariffs set in March.

November 03, 2025 03:57 PM

Jennifer Shike

North American Free Trade Agreement will be renamed USMCA, for U.S., Mexico and Canada.

Ag Policy

No Trade Agreement Can Boast the Success of USMCA, The Meat Institute Says

USMCA has been a boon for the American meat, livestock and poultry sector, along with the broader American food and agriculture economy and ancillary industries, The Meat Institute says in comments to the USTR.

November 03, 2025 02:31 PM

Jennifer Shike

Market News

Pork’s Wild Ride: Unpacking 2025’s Industry Surprises and What Lies Ahead

After the pain the pork industry has been through in the past few years, Christine McCracken says the expectation was a rebuilding and a stabilization of the industry. Here’s how ongoing uncertainty is impacting what’s to come.

October 31, 2025 10:56 AM

Jennifer Shike

Hog Production

Senecavirus A Outbreaks in Show Pigs Prompt Reminders for Exhibitors

Indistinguishable from foot-and-mouth disease in pigs, Senecavirus A results in vesicular lesions, says National Pork Board’s Patrick Webb. Here’s why this disease is so important to report immediately to a veterinarian.

October 30, 2025 12:44 PM

Jennifer Shike

Industry

Jury Rejects ‘Rescue’ Defense: DxE Extremist Zoe Rosenberg Found Guilty in Chicken Heist

Although Rosenberg’s attorneys tried to paint the theft as a “rescue,” the jury disagreed, finding her guilty on all counts, including felony conspiracy, as well as the two misdemeanors for trespassing and a third for tampering.

October 30, 2025 11:45 AM

Jennifer Shike

Education

Don’t Break, Build: A Farmer’s Playbook for Taking Control of Your Mind

When the going gets tough, is adjusting your focus enough? Experts say one of the best ways to build resilience and manage stress is to pay attention in the present moment.

October 29, 2025 11:12 AM

Jennifer Shike

Hog Production

From Crisis to Calling: How Maddie Hokanson Found Strength in the Pork Industry

Maddie Hokanson follows a simple, but profound, philosophy in life: start with why. As a seventh-generation farmer with Schafer Farms, she says the farm has served as a lifeline while adjusting to parenting a child with serious health challenges.

October 28, 2025 02:50 PM

Jennifer Shike