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JBS To Pay COVID-19-Related Healthcare Costs for Employees
JBS To Pay COVID-19-Related Healthcare Costs for Employees

The company announced Friday that 100% of expenses related to COVID-19 diagnosis and treatment would be covered, effective retroactively to March 1.

African Swine Fever Survives in Feed, Now What? 

Is it possible to determine where high-risk feed products are coming into the U.S. from ASF-positive countries? Scott Dee and Gilbert Patterson weigh in on a new study that could help the industry mitigate risk.

ADM, InnovaFeed to Build World's Biggest Insect Protein Plant in Illinois
ADM, InnovaFeed to Build World's Biggest Insect Protein Plant in Illinois

U.S. grain trader and processor Archer Daniels Midland Co and French biotech company InnovaFeed announced plans to build the world's largest insect protein plant in Decatur, Ill.

Thin layer of biochar floating on top of swine manure.
Biochar Mitigates Manure-Related Odors and Emissions on Pig Farms

Iowa State University researchers have shown that carbon-rich biochar could be used to mitigate many odors and potentially toxic volatile organic compounds emitted from swine manure.

Thin layer of biochar floating on top of swine manure.
Biochar Mitigates Manure-Related Odors and Emissions on Pig Farms

Iowa State University researchers have shown that carbon-rich biochar could be used to mitigate many odors and potentially toxic volatile organic compounds emitted from swine manure.

Packing plant workers
Lawsuit Alleges Tyson Managers Wagered On Employee Infections

While COVID-19 infections spiked at Tyson's Waterloo, Iowa, plant, supervisors allegedly placed bets on how many workers would become infected. Tyson CEO Dean Banks suspended the managers and announced an investigation.

Sustainable Pig Farming Before It Was Cool 
Sustainable Pig Farming Before It Was Cool 

North Dakota pig farmer Todd Erickson says he takes enormous pride working in a sustainable industry. He shares his perspective on the future and his role in serving the pork industry. 

Amino Acid Helps Shore Up Defenses of Swine

A third round of feeding trials conducted by a team of USDA (ARS) and university scientists has again shown that a dietary supplement called L-glutamine can naturally promote growth and wellness in pigs.

Company News: Philanthropic Efforts Support Communities and Veterans
Company News: Philanthropic Efforts Support Communities and Veterans

Here’s are the latest from around the industry.

A World Without Zinc Oxide: Swine Researchers Look for Alternatives

A mineral commonly used to help maintain newborn pig health and growth may not be available in the future. Because of this, Kansas State University researchers are searching for alternatives.

PORK, Drovers Recognized for Editorial Excellence
PORK, Drovers Recognized for Editorial Excellence

Farm Journal publications honored for editorial excellence by the Livestock Publications Council.

The organization has moved thousands of potatoes from the farm to people who need them.
New FarmLink Project Helps Farmers Get Food To Hungry People

The organization partners with farmers and other members of the agricultural community to move food from the farm level to food banks and distribution centers around the U.S.

Kansas State Wins National Livestock Judging Championship
Kansas State Wins National Livestock Judging Championship

Kansas State University captured the North American International Livestock Exposition title marking the 15th national championship for K-State’s livestock judging program.

Reduce Wean-to-Finish Mortality: Plan Your Strategies

High wean-to-finish mortality continues to trouble the pork industry. While lowering rates is possible, it’s not easy, reported Ryan Strobel, DVM, and Chris Sievers, DVM, with Swine Vet Center, St. Peter, Minn.

Tyson Foods Beats Profit Estimates, Sees Lower COVID-19 Costs in 2021
Tyson Foods Beats Profit Estimates, Sees Lower COVID-19 Costs in 2021

Tyson Foods beat Wall Street estimates for fourth-quarter profit on Monday, but faces rising costs for animal feed and uncertainty over labor as COVID-19 cases surge in the United States.

A Meat and Egg Salesroom worker places eggs into a car during curbside pickup
University of Illinois Meat Sales Room Thrives Through Pandemic

The University of Illinois meat science research group was wrapping up a big project and the meats judging team was preparing to host a regional contest. Then, in the blink of an eye, COVID-19 sent everyone home. 

What's the Role of PPV2 in Swine Respiratory and Reproductive Diseases?

South Dakota State University researchers will explore the PPV2 infection plays in important diseases such as pneumonia, immune deficiency, reproductive failure and lameness, all causes of lost productivity.

Who's Got the Best Beard and Mustache in the Pork Industry?
Who's Got the Best Beard and Mustache in the Pork Industry?

If you think you have what it takes to be named one of the best beards or mustaches in the pork industry (or you’re just a good sport), send in your photo nominations before Dec. 1. Get the details here.

USMEF held its Strategic Planning Conference Nov 10-13.
USMEF Details Creative Global Marketing Solutions, Elects Leaders

Adapting market development programs for U.S. pork, beef and lamb to a COVID-impacted world and meeting the changing needs of international consumers were dominant themes of the USMEF Strategic Planning Conference.

There's No Better Lifestyle Than Pig Farming, Ballance Says
There's No Better Lifestyle Than Pig Farming, Ballance Says

It’s not uncommon to find Deb Ballance standing by the meat case at her local grocery store striking up a conversation with a consumer about what influences their purchase of pork. Here's what motivates her.

Avoid Next-Door Drama

Understand your farm's legal risks of disgruntled neighbors.

Meat Industry Reaches All-Time Low Injury Rate Despite Activist Claims
Meat Industry Reaches All-Time Low Injury Rate Despite Activist Claims

A new study shows U.S. meat and poultry packers and processors have reached a new, all-time low for injuries in the workplace.

Newman Elected to Serve Second Term as President of National Pork Board
Newman Elected to Serve Second Term as President of National Pork Board

Newly elected leaders of the National Pork Board weigh in on what's ahead for the U.S. pork industry.

Increasing Frequency of Meals May Help Pregnant Sows 

K-State researchers to present findings during annual Swine Day.

NAMI, Other Groups Seek COVID-19 Vaccine Priority
NAMI, Other Groups Seek COVID-19 Vaccine Priority

Fifteen food and beverage associations sent a letter to President Donald Trump requesting priority access to COVID-19 vaccines to protect workers and keep the food supply chain running.

Election Guide: What The Election Means for Farmers and Ranchers
Election Guide: What The Election Means for Farmers and Ranchers

Who will lead the house ag committee? Is a split government good for agriculture? Get the latest election coverage here.

Livestock Cargo Flight of 11-11-2020
Flying Pigs Make History at St. Louis Airport

The first shipment of breeding pigs to utilize the Livestock Export and Inspection Facility at St. Louis Lambert took off for Sao Paulo, Brazil on Nov. 11, making history as they left aboard a Boeing 747-400F.

Continual training of staff to recognize and properly identify issues is essential.
Stiffness Isn’t Normal: A Field Perspective on Lameness in Grow-Finish Pigs

Lameness is the No. 1 cause of mortality in mid- to late-finishing stage pigs. Kathleen Wood, DVM, Christensen Farms, shares some of the key issues she’s seeing out in the field when it comes to grow-finish lameness.

Product News: Feed Acidifiers White Paper, Expanded Disinfectant Availability
Product News: Feed Acidifiers White Paper, Expanded Disinfectant Availability

Here’s the latest from around the swine industry.

As the sun sets on 2020, what's in store for 2021?
Will 2021 Be Different? Economists Weigh in on What’s Ahead

Many people would like to push fast forward to 2021 and forget 2020 ever happened. Will 2021 be a better year for the U.S. pork industry? Most economists think so, but will admit that’s what they thought last year.

Although no one holds a crystal ball to shed light on exactly what a new year will bring, five economists in the pork industry share their advice for producers in 2021.
Don’t Assume Anything in 2021, Economists Advise Pork Producers

Although no one holds a crystal ball to shed light on exactly what a new year will bring, five economists in the pork industry share their advice for producers in 2021.

The ideal cooked temperature of ham is above 145°F, but take care to not overheat the ham.
The Secret to a Great Holiday Ham

Ham is a popular tradition for many families during the holidays. Anna Dilger, a meat scientist at the University of Illinois, digs into the science and the art of what makes a good ham.

Pork Industry Leaders in the Headlines: Eggert, Giordano
Pork Industry Leaders in the Headlines: Eggert, Giordano

Topigs Norsvin names a new chief executive officer. NPPC's Nick Giordano wins national award for lobbying efforts on behalf of the U.S. pork industry.

Nalivka: The Economics of Capacity And Utilization

When a plant increases operational capacity, there is an increase in total industry capacity which in turn has economic ramifications through the cattle cycle as the inventory is expanded or liquidated.

Packing plant workers
Nalivka: The Economics of Capacity And Utilization

When a plant increases operational capacity, there is an increase in total industry capacity which in turn has economic ramifications through the cattle cycle as the inventory is expanded or liquidated.

Vietnam Sets Sights on ASF Vaccine by End of 2021

The race to find a vaccine for African swine fever (ASF) continues across the globe. Vietnam’s minister of agriculture says Vietnam might have a vaccine as early as 2021 following optimistic small-scale test results.

McDonald’s to Launch the McPlant—its Take on Plant-Based Protein
McDonald’s to Launch the McPlant—its Take on Plant-Based Protein

The company’s in-house culinary team created its own plant-based patty and tested it in select Canadian stores last year.

Five respected economists in the pork industry share their outlook on what’s ahead in 2021. 
2021 U.S. Pork Outlook: Volatility and A Little Optimism

The industry appears to be set for another year of large hog supplies that will stretch processing capacity and pork demand, says University of Missouri economist Scott Brown.

Feed Biosecurity: Closing the Gaps
Feed Biosecurity: Closing the Gaps

Biosecurity procedures are essential for protecting domestic swine herds from harmful disease agents, including viruses.

More than 200 local meat and poultry processors in Iowa received grants made possible from $4 million in Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act funding allocated by Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds
Over 200 Iowa Small Meat and Poultry Processors Awarded CARES Act Funds

On Nov. 9, more than 200 local meat and poultry processors in Iowa were awarded Meat Processing and Expansion Grants from the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship.

Inadequate Iron Supplements Lead to Subclinical Anemia in Young Pigs
Inadequate Iron Supplements Lead to Subclinical Anemia in Young Pigs

A field trial evaluating iron supplementation for baby pigs found the typical 200 mg iron shot at birth is not enough. Here's what Brittney Scales, DVM, learned when a client wanted to compare different methods.

Beyond Burger
Beyond Meat Share Price Tumbles

Beyond Meat's stock prices dropped rapidly this week when it became apparent the company would not meet investors' or the company's expectations for profitability anytime soon.

AgView: New Tool to Protect Swine Industry from Foreign Animal Disease Fallout

The National Pork Board launches a new digital platform to help protect the swine industry with real-time capability.

USMEF Audio: September Pork Exports Up 10%, Achieving Broad-Based Growth
USMEF Audio: September Pork Exports Up 10%, Achieving Broad-Based Growth

September exports of U.S. pork increased 10% year-over-year, keeping 2020 exports on a record pace. September volume reached 222,475 metric tons, with value increasing 6% to $563.2 million.

Promising news of a COVID-19 vaccine trial made headlines Monday, but the Meat Demand Monitor recently found only one-third of people say they're confident in returning to more indoor dining, even with a vaccine.
Study Finds COVID-19 Vaccine Won’t Fully Restore Confidence in Indoor Dining

Promising news of a COVID-19 vaccine trial made headlines Monday, but the Meat Demand Monitor recently found only one-third of people say they're confident in returning to more indoor dining, even with a vaccine.

5 Ways to Extend Biosecurity into the Feed Supply Chain
5 Ways to Extend Biosecurity into the Feed Supply Chain

By nature, biosecurity isn’t easy. And there’s a cost, too. Jordan Gebhardt, DVM, assistant professor at Kansas State University, explains why biosecurity is a necessary investment for a successful feed program.

Hard Questions the Pork Industry Needs to Tackle in 2021
Hard Questions the Pork Industry Needs to Tackle in 2021

As the industry looks ahead to 2021, five economists weigh in on the most important question the pork industry needs to ask itself now. 

Meat processing plants house unique environments. From chilled temperatures to unique air flow, researchers at Kansas State are researching if CDC guidelines work in meat processing facilities.
Carving Out Answers to How COVID-19 Survives in Meat Processing Plants

Meat processing plants house unique environments. From chilled temperatures to unique air flow, researchers at Kansas State are researching if CDC guidelines work in meat processing facilities.

Global Leaders Take Action to Keep African Swine Fever at Bay
Global Leaders Take Action to Keep African Swine Fever at Bay

The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations and World Organization for Animal Health have united in a joint initiative to keep African swine fever at bay. Here's what they have in store.

Cash Weaner Pig Prices Average $35.90, down $0.22 Last Week
Cash Weaner Pig Prices Average $35.90, down $0.22 Last Week

Cash-traded weaner pig volume was below average this week with 33,605 head being reported which is 63% of the 52-week average.