The Impact of Apple on Pork Producers

Apple's influence has undeniably shaped consumer expectations across industries, including the pork industry. Pork producers, like many others, have become accustomed to the convenience and streamlined user experience that Apple products offer. From the unboxing of a crisp, white package to the intuitive icons that make Apple's devices accessible to everyone, Apple has permanently altered the way users interact with technology. 

However, the reality that pork producers work in is far removed from the seamless experience provided by Apple. On swine farms, numerous environmental and technical challenges disrupt the ideal of streamlined operations.

These include:

• Environmental Constraints: Pork producers face a variety of environmental challenges, such as dirt, moisture and temperature extremes, which can significantly impact technology's functionality on the farm. In addition, power surges and variable voltages can present additional concerns.
• Livestock Issues: Rodents and unpredictable animal behavior can damage equipment, adding another layer of complexity to farm management.
• Technical and Data Problems: The necessity for broadband access and data fluency, coupled with the risk of data breaches, presents significant concerns for pork producers. 

The gap between expectations and reality can lead to disappointment for farmers and failure for businesses attempting to innovate in this space. For pork producers to enjoy the technological advancements, these limitations must be overcome. Fortunately, there are opportunities in the pork sector for more streamlined success. 

Examples include BarnTools from M-Tech is another that makes it possible for producers to measure metrics from feed in the bin, to temperatures in the pen, and manage the farm remotely. Distynct brings the IoT to the farm in an affordable and manageable way by replacing traditional technology with versions that have more data and/or functional capabilities at a similar cost. Even these and other suppliers are challenged by the concerns that consumers have become accustomed to the Apple experience.  

The adoption of technology in the pork industry is not hindered by a reluctance to innovate but by the practicality of implementing solutions that are not yet suited to the unique challenges of farming. The agricultural sector doesn't have an innovation problem; it faces an implementation problem, as noted by Chad Swindell. 

While the sleek and user-friendly experience of Apple products has set high expectations, the reality on pork farms is considerably different. However, with targeted efforts to overcome environmental and technical challenges, there is potential for significant technological advancements in the pork sector. By focusing on practical, durable and effective solutions, pork agri-tech can bridge the gap between the high-tech world of consumer electronics and the gritty reality of farm operations.

Aidan Connolly is a frequent speaker at conferences and has advised agribusinesses, farms, families and governments on food technologies.