Here’s a quick look at news from pork businesses and organizations.
Zinpro Expands Manufacturing Operations with New Brazil Plant
Zinpro Corporation has announced the opening of its new state-of-the-art blending facility in Marialva, in the state of Paraná, Brazil.
“This new facility marks an exciting growth milestone for Zinpro,” President and CEO Rob Sheffer said in a release. “But even more important is our ongoing commitment to serving customers in Brazil. We look forward to delivering greater efficiency and flexibility for producers and agribusinesses in this critically important region of the world – especially as the demand for animal proteins continues to increase with the growing global population.”
According to Sheffer, the new plant will give Zinpro increased flexibility to innovate and develop breakthrough solutions for animals and producers.
“Through our close partnerships with customers across Brazil, we have discovered a need for innovative nutrition solutions in this market,” José Francisco Mendes, Zinpro vice president of sales – Latin America, said in a release. “This new, modern blending facility allows us to offer our proven Zinpro products, solutions and tools more efficiently than ever before. We look forward to working with our customers to enhance animal health and wellbeing and drive better animal performance.”
Paloma Lazcano Named Managing Director for Topigs Norsvin Mexico
Paloma Lazcano has been appointed managing director of Topigs Norsvin Mexico. Lazcano is currently Chief of Staff of Topigs Norsvin Mexico. Paloma takes over with immediate effect from José Córdoba who was managing director for 10 years.
Lazcano has more than eight years of experience at Topigs Norsvin where she was active for the Mexican and international company. She held multiple positions in Mexico and managed several international projects, expanding her knowledge and skills over the years, the company said in a release.
Peter van Kemenade, Regional Director North and South America, says, “We are proud to continue our growing business of Topigs Norsvin in Mexico with the leadership of Paloma. It is a step in the development of our company with the next generation.”
José Córdoba served as general manager since 2013. Under his leadership, Topigs Norsvin has experienced strong development and has become one of the leading genetics suppliers in the country. He will remain involved with Topigs Norsvin as external advisor and will support new projects and developments.
Central Iowa Chefs Create Pork Recipes That Pair Well With Wine
A Des Moines caterer claimed the top prize at a professional competition that challenged local chefs to deliver the best pork and wine pairing. Pork + Pinot, a Winefest Des Moines event presented by the Iowa Pork Producers Association (IPPA), offered swine-centric cuisine from six central Iowa chefs, with each dish complemented by a different pinot noir, a type of red wine.
Amara Sama, of Des Moines-based Palm’s Caribbean Cuisine, took home the first-place honors, IPPA announced in a release. Sama also received the People’s Choice award by those attending Pork + Pinot. Chef participants could use pork belly, shoulder, or loin as a main ingredient. Sama’s winning Jerk Pork Taco featured pork shoulder marinated for 48 hours in Jamaican jerk seasoning, then smoked over a wood and charcoal mixture. The meat was topped with mango salsa, jerk chipotle sour cream, and cotija cheese.
“This is always a fun event, to network with people and get feedback to motivate us,” said Sama, a repeat contender. Palm’s fuses Caribbean and West African fare, and can be found at festivals, farmers markets, and other large gatherings across the state. Sama received an IPPA gift package for each award and a total of $650.
The judges selected Mariela Maya, of Panka in Des Moines, for second place. Maya concocted a Pork Shoulder Sandwich with Relish, Onions, and Peruvian Spicy Sauce. She received $150 and an IPPA gift.
Other chefs and their dishes were:
• Chawn Choun, Sarinade in Waukee, Pork Belly and Pineapple Egg Rolls.
• Brandon Liss, Aura Restaurant & Lounge in Clive, Pork Belly and Potato Croquette.
• Dominic Iannarelli, Splash Seafood Bar & Grill in Des Moines, Slow Smoked Bacon Wrapped Shoulder Tenders.
• Brandon Persaud, Fresko in Des Moines, Braised Pork Shoulder.
IPPA’s event sponsorship included $500 for each chef to cover the costs of the food that was prepared.
Is E-Commerce Right for You?
ChopLocal will be hosting a free webinar on Tuesday, Nov. 7 at 8 p.m. EST/7 p.m. CST to help direct-to-consumer farms who are considering the move into e-commerce.
“Is E-Commerce Right for You?” will address the challenges that come with e-commerce including technology considerations, digital marketing, and order fulfillment, while also sharing keys to success. This webinar will cover tips for improving the ecommerce experience for customers, platform considerations, marketing techniques, and more.
