New research: adopting PRRS-resistant pigs offers meaningful benefits with minimal trade-offs

Wed, 29 Apr 2026 18:21:31 GMT

In April 2025, PIC was granted approval by the FDA for the gene edit used in its PRRS-resistant pig, an extraordinary step forward in eliminating challenges from one of the most serious global pig diseases.

Now, research published in the August 2025 American Journal of Veterinary Research has revealed a model of potential global economic and market impacts associated with adoption of this new technology.¹

PIC commissioned Dr. Jayson Lusk, Vice President and Dean of Oklahoma State University’s Division of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources, and Regents Professor to develop the economic model used in the research.

Since 2000, Lusk has published more than 280 articles in peer-reviewed scientific journals. Much of this research was focused on consumer demand, how consumers respond to new technologies and food products, how demand translates through the agricultural supply chain, and, ultimately, how these changes impact farmers.

Dr. Lusk’s economic model answers questions about the PRRS-resistant pig

The potential of pigs resistant to PRRS, a disease endemic to the global pork industry, could be significant. The question becomes, what will happen when the technology is available to breeding herds? How will it impact pork production and prices? What does it mean for farmers and consumers?

Lusk’s research constructed an economic model to find out.

“The model linked the supply of market hogs on the one end to demand for pork by consumers on the other end, and it does that in a way that also links global trade,” says Lusk. “So, you have our major pork producers in countries like the U.S., China, Canada and other parts throughout the world and links those to each other in terms of global trading patterns.”

Industry impact: Potential increased profit per head as a result of adopting the PRRS-resistant pig

The model allowed Lusk to evaluate different technology adoption rates.

“What we’re able to do is say, ‘if we had 5% adoption, 10% adoption, 100% adoption of PRRS-resistant pigs, what would happen?’” says Lusk. “The overarching story is that as adoption increases, pork production increases and pork prices fall.”

But that doesn’t mean bad news for pork producers, according to Lusk.

“The important thing to note is that costs fall more than prices fall,” adds Lusk. “So, you’re able to sell more pork at a lower cost, and the result is those people that adopt PRRS-resistant pigs are more profitable.”

Production and price shifts also increase U.S. exports.Ultimately, more pigs and pork produced at a positive margin can increase total industry profit, according to Lusk’s model.

Consumer impact: More, affordable pork

“The main benefit of eliminating PRRS that consumers could see directly is lower food prices,” says Lusk.

According to Lusk and his model, by eliminating or reducing PRRS, consumers could also enjoy indirect benefits like improved animal welfare and reduced antibiotic usage², which have been identified as important to consumers.

Other animal and plant proteins will no doubt seek their own novel innovations to increase future productivity and vie for a spot on the consumer’s dinner plate. In fact, there are more than 500 gene-edited crops either available for sale or in development ^.3

“As a pork industry, innovating now for higher productivity will help maintain pork’s spot and industry profitability,” says Lusk.

Adoption of PRRS-resistant pigs can be a net-positive even if demand dips slightly

Lusk’s model notes that even if consumers reduce their willingness to pay for pork in response to this technology’s adoption, it will take a “really large” reduction to offset productivity gains. Likewise, Lusk notes, that if global trade patterns changed (ie, a country decides not to import pork from a country using this technology), productivity gains would likely remain a net positive for U.S. industry profitability, per the research.

“If pork is the most consumed protein 10 to 20 years from now, it’s because this technology was adopted,” says Lusk.

More information on Dr. Lusk’s research can be found here on the PRRS-resistant pig website .

Sources:

Lusk, JL. “Global adoption of porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome-resistant pigs will have significant economic and market impacts.” American Journal of Veterinary Research. August 2025. https://avmajournals.avma.org/view/journals/ajvr/86/11/ajvr.25.05.0188.xml
Machado, Isadora Fernanda. Assessment of changes in antibiotic use in grow-finish pigs after the introduction of PRRSV in a naïve farrow-to-finish system. Dec. 2023. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0167587724002368?via%3Dihub
S&P Global. Gene-edited crops market growth spurred by regulatory progress and approvals. Jan. 2023. Accessed November, 2025. https://www.spglobal.com/commodity-insights/en/research-analytics/gene-edited-crops-market-growth-spurred-by-regulatory-progress

Cleaning: Surface Preparation is Critical prior to Disinfection

Wed, 29 Apr 2026 17:02:21 GMT

With biosecurity being at the forefront of a successful swine operation, detergents are necessary to establish a clean surface in preparation for disinfection. An effective disinfectant must come into direct contact with the pathogen of concern for inactivation to occur which mitigates the risk of disease transmission. Therefore, the removal of all organic and inorganic material prior to disinfection remains a critical step to optimizing the efficacy of disinfectants in eliminating infectious disease. It only takes the slightest amount of organic material on a contaminated surface to harbor an infectious agent that could serve as the source of a catastrophic disease outbreak. The cleaning process must be designed to address all areas of potential contamination to include various surfaces, materials, and equipment for effective results. Let’s take a closer look at the important features for selection and application of an appropriate cleaner.

It is important to carefully consider the selection of appropriate chemistries for utilization in the cleaning process. Detergent products designed and formulated specifically to clean surfaces without any claims to destroy pathogens are not registered with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). However, it is necessary to clarify that during the cleaning process, detergents have the capability to remove up to 90% of pathogens present, but inactivation does not occur. Acidic cleaners are effective for alternating pH programs in swine barns, on equipment, and for transport vehicles to remove mineral scale, detergent residues, and other elements that remain after repeated use of alkaline cleaners. Implementing a rotation between an alkaline cleaner and an acidic cleaner will assist in maximizing surface cleanliness for best results with disinfection. A typical cleaner rotation will utilize an alkaline chemistry 66% to 75% of the time and an acidic chemistry 25% to 33% of the time. Acidic cleaner chemistries with active ingredients such as phosphoric acid or hydrochloric acid have a pH below 7. Alkaline cleaners are effective for the removal of fats, proteins, grease, feces, and other biological material that may contribute to biofilm formation in swine barns and on equipment and transport vehicles. Alkaline cleaner chemistries with active ingredients such as potassium hydroxide or sodium hydroxide have a pH above 7. Alkaline cleaners are available in both chlorinated and non-chlorinated formulations.

Additional features to consider in the selection of an appropriate cleaner are foaming capability and corrosivity as well as the surfactants and chelating agents present within the formulation. Foaming capability is important for contact time especially on vertical surfaces and for application coverage. Selecting a non-corrosive formulation is important for longevity of equipment and facilities to prevent maintenance concerns. The surfactants present within a formulation lower the surface tension of water which provides a greater ability to wet surfaces during the cleaning process leading to better penetration, suspension, and removal of dirt and debris. Chelating agents present within a formulation neutralize hard water minerals such as calcium and magnesium to stabilize the chemistry to maintain effectiveness during the cleaning process. Detergents improve the efficiency of the cleaning process which can result in savings in both labor and water usage.

The cleaning process begins with an initial water spray down to remove the loose organic and inorganic material present on all surfaces. Next, utilize properly calibrated foaming equipment to apply a selected cleaner at the appropriate concentration and follow the recommended contact time in accordance with the product label. Recommended contact times typically range from 10 minutes to one hour. The use dilution and contact time for a cleaner can be dependent upon the level of contamination. Ensure adequate coverage of all surfaces to allow the cleaner to penetrate, suspend, and remove dirt and debris. Complete a thorough water rinse on all surfaces to remove the detergent and any remaining contamination. Visibly observe surfaces to detect any areas that may require further attention through manual cleaning to achieve cleanliness. Finally, it is important that all newly cleaned surfaces are relatively dry prior to disinfection to prevent the over dilution of the disinfectant.

With the ever-evolving disease challenges facing the swine industry, it is quite evident the impact that the proper selection and implementation of chemistry and cleaning procedures prior to disinfection can have on the success of your biosecurity program in maintaining a healthy herd. Dedicating the necessary attention to this critical cleaning step will pay dividends. Contact Kersia a trusted industry partner, for additional information and to discuss solutions that meet your individual needs.

Barnstorm and Farm-Foam EVO Cleaners from Kersia USA

(Kersia USA)

Moving More Pork, One Dish at a Time

Wed, 29 Apr 2026 16:54:03 GMT

When the National Pork Board (NPB) launched the Taste What Pork Can Do^® consumer brand campaign last year, the goal was simple: Get more Americans to eat more pork more often.

And, for the past year, we’ve been working hard to do just that. We’ve reviewed data to determine if marketing dollars are making a difference and have taken steps to develop a new economic tool — the Pork Power Index — to evaluate the campaign and demonstrate producer return. But perhaps the most promising numbers are those that show movement — and opportunity — in the meatcase.

Because we’re ready to turn opportunity into increased demand for producers.

Opportunity Is Knocking

One of the easiest proteins to incorporate into the diet is ground meat. Playing a dual role, ground meat can be the main course in burgers or meatloaf, but it can also be a team player as a versatile ingredient in dishes like chili, pasta sauces or cultural favorites like tacos.

Ground pork is an opportunity aligning with the Taste What Pork Can Do^® consumer brand campaign.

NPB has focused the campaign on millennial and Gen Z consumers to build long-term demand. In fact, millennial and Gen Z shoppers accounted for 67% of all unit growth in the meatcase in 2025.

But what does that have to do with ground pork?

First and foremost, Gen Z shoppers are spending more dollars per trip on ground pork than any other generation. What’s more, the days between purchases of ground pork are fewer for both millennial and Gen Z shoppers.

On the retail side, ground pork volume is outpacing fresh and total pork, and there has been an 18% growth in 90/10 ground pork. In the long run, that turns into increased demand and increased value for producers.

Strike While the Iron is Hot

Of course, growth doesn’t necessarily equal success, or at least sustained success. However, we’ve seen ground pork volume increase, and it’s primed for continued growth as consumers seek taste, flavor, versatility and a balanced diet. We know that millennials are the most health-conscious generation, and 55% of protein-aware consumers prefer to source protein through whole foods like meat and dairy. Ground pork delivers what consumers are looking for.

Data also shows that adding variations to ground pork drives significant category growth. And, with millennial and Gen Z shoppers spending nearly $5 more per year on ground meat than average shoppers, additional ground pork SKUs could be an opportunity.

Retail Partnerships are Key

To execute on the opportunity, NPB is working with retail partners to add ground pork items to store shelves. Along with in-store and digital retail activations, NPB’s Taste What Pork Can Do^® consumer brand campaign has a year-round focus on ground pork.

Ads focusing on the flavor, versatility and affordability of ground pork hit websites, mobile applications and in-store advertising to pique millennial and Gen Z consumers’ established interest in cultural dishes while capitalizing on seasonal ground meat sales spikes like summer grilling season and winter holidays.

One of our retail partners, Fareway® Stores, Inc., is working with the Iowa Pork Producers Association (IPPA) and the National Pork Board to bring additional awareness to the versatility of ground pork. Fareway recently launched a Boston Butt Pork Burger in all store locations in seven states. These burgers are made from fresh, in-store ground boneless pork butts and formed into 6 oz patties. Fareway will be promoting the new item throughout the summer grilling season and into fall tailgating season with in-store signage, social media, email and influencer content. IPPA is supporting Fareway’s work with social media for both IPPA and Fareway.

Retail Opportunity, Producer Demand Driver

Three years ago, NPB set a goal of growing ground pork sales to $300 million by 2029. Ground pork sales have grown steadily since then, and we’re actively partnering with retailers to capture the remaining $80 million opportunity.

With the help of retailers and the ongoing work of the Taste What Pork Can Do^® consumer brand campaign, we’re knocking on the door of reaching ground pork’s full potential, meeting the needs of the consumer, bringing opportunity to retailers and driving demand for producers.

Visit porkcheckoff.org/flavor to see how the research-backed Taste What Pork Can Do^® consumer brand campaign is introducing more Americans to ground pork.

Sarah Showalter, director of consumer and business insights, NPB

Sarah Showalter is the director of consumer and business insights for the National Pork Board. She implements consumer-focused, producer-led strategy by leading qualitative and quantitative research to answer business questions and identify opportunities.

Prior to her role at NPB, Showalter attended Iowa State University and has experience in developing strategic insights through research at Circana (formerly IRI), Conagra Brands and Hallmark Cards, Inc.

The Animal Health Impact: Benefits of Adopting the PRRS-Resistant Pig

Thu, 02 Apr 2026 15:09:36 GMT

For the past 20 to 30 years, PRRS has taken an incredible toll on the farmers and veterinarians striving for the best possible animal health outcomes. Efforts to control the disease and minimize animal suffering require intensive intervention, with research showing up to a 3.79x increase in antibiotic use for infected herds. And despite those best efforts, the end result can still be devastating.

“PRRS has been the most frustrating thing we’ve had to deal with as veterinarians,” says Dr. Jason Hocker, partner and veterinarian at AMVC, a firm managing 161,500 sows across 11 states and 45 farms. “The virus changes and adapts and seems to always be one step ahead of us. It’s something we’ve not been able to make lot of progress on as an industry.”

The emotional toll on pig caretakers

The impact of PRRS extends beyond the animal and into the lives of those who care for them.

“It’s not just frustrating, it’s also emotionally taxing to the vets, farmers and farm employees who have to deal with what comes next after diagnosis,” adds Hocker. “Once you have a diagnosis, your heart just sinks and you immediately know it’s going to be challenging for weeks and months to come. You never really get used to it.”

Innovation to change the outlook

The decades-long trajectory could finally be changing with FDA approval of the gene edit used in PIC’s PRRS-resistant pig. This new tool can help chart a new future.

The gene edit precisely removes the binding site for PRRS via a protein in the pig’s DNA. Without the binding site, pigs can be resistant to the disease – and potentially avoid needless suffering, including fever, appetite loss, lethargy, weakness, death and more.

This innovation could paint a brighter picture for both swine health and responsible antibiotic use.

Advancing animal medicine towards human medicine

“Looking ahead, it’s incredibly exciting to know that we may have options to help us move the needle on this devastating disease,” says Hocker.

“We’re looking at the future of medicine here, not just animal medicine – but human medicine, too. The human side has been making advancements for years, so it’s exciting to step into the arena on the swine side and start paving a brighter future.”

Addressing the primary PRRS insult

Better pig health and a reduced need for antibiotics benefit the full supply chain – from farm to consumer. And it starts with focusing on PRRS.

“Today, we can’t treat the primary insult of PRRS,” says Hocker. “We’re treating all the things that come along with PRRS infection. If we successfully eliminate the primary PRRS insult, then we don’t have to worry about treating all the secondary infections that come along with it.”

Supporting antimicrobial stewardship

The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) has outlined core principles to improve antimicrobial stewardship.

The gene edit for a PRRS-resistant pig would support two of those principles: 1) systems of care that include a multi-pronged approach to preventing common diseases, and 2) positively impacting judicious use of antimicrobials.

“That’s huge for the pig and for public health, because we’re less reliant on the antimicrobials needed to keep pigs alive and healthy,” says Hocker.

Dig deeper into the research on how a PRRS outbreak impacts antibiotic use on farm.

Source:
Machado, I. et al. “Assessment of changes in antibiotic usage in grow-finish pigs after the introduction of PRRSV in naïve farrow-to-finish system.” Iowa State University. 2023. https://dr.lib.iastate.edu/handle/20.500.12876/105655

Biosecurity with the Environment in Mind

Tue, 31 Mar 2026 17:51:42 GMT

In the swine industry, it is widely known that phosphorus is an essential nutrient for the health and performance of pigs. However, it is also well understood that the manure and wastewater generated and handled by these production units contribute to the input of phosphorus and nitrogen in the environment through land application. Further, swine producers and veterinarians understand the need to effectively manage the storage, handling, and application of this manure and wastewater to prevent disease transmission, avoid nutrient pollution, and promote good environmental stewardship. This is accomplished through the implementation of management practices to include reducing the levels of phosphorus in the manure and wastewater and appropriately applying these nutrients to the surrounding land which allows effective plant utilization and prevents the risk of runoff. A failure to maintain the necessary balance of the nutrient flow of phosphorus and nitrogen within the environment can result in significant detrimental effects on the entire ecosystem. Biosecurity is an area of emphasis on all production units throughout the industry in which strategic selection of the products utilized can serve as a valuable approach to reducing the level of phosphorus in the generated waste from the facility.

The overapplication of phosphorus and nitrogen to the surrounding land leads to an imbalance in the soil which greatly increases the risk of nutrient runoff. The runoff of phosphorus that enters streams, rivers, lakes, and other bodies of water is responsible for a variety of problems. This excessive level of phosphorus that ends up in our environmental water sources contributes to harmful algal blooms that produce toxins and reduce aquatic oxygen levels. The presence of toxins and deprivation of oxygen results in the inability of these water sources to sustain and support the necessary life forms for a stable ecosystem. This disruption in the ecosystem has far reaching effects on water quality for people in these affected areas. The impact on water quality results in a concern for the health and safety of these sources for human consumption and recreation. In the event these situations develop, the solutions to correct the problem and stabilize the environment can be very expensive. Therefore, methods for prevention are the better strategic approach for the swine industry.

One fundamental approach to prevention is reducing the levels of phosphorus in the generated waste products that reach the environment. Two important areas in which an impact can be made are specific diet formulation and strategic selection of biosecurity products. More specifically, the selection of the appropriate detergent for cleaning purposes utilized in the facility’s biosecurity protocols can prove to be very valuable at achieving phosphorus reduction. With biosecurity being at the forefront of a successful operation, phosphate-free, biodegradable detergents are a very effective means at establishing a clean surface in preparation for disinfection while at the same time utilizing a product that is environmentally friendly. The removal of all organic and inorganic material prior to disinfection remains a vital step in eliminating infectious disease. Therefore, phosphate-free, biodegradable, agricultural cleaners provide producers and veterinarians with a valuable solution to their biosecurity needs while being proactive in protecting the environment.

The implementation of highly effective, phosphate-free, biodegradable cleaners within a facility’s comprehensive biosecurity program still requires the selection of the appropriate chemistry to achieve the best results. A phosphate-free, acidic, foaming cleaner is effective for alternating pH programs in swine barns, on equipment, and for transport vehicles to remove mineral scale, detergent residues, and other elements that remain after repeated use of alkaline cleaners. Implementing a rotation between an alkaline cleaner and an acidic cleaner will assist in maximizing surface cleanliness for best results with disinfection. A phosphate-free, foaming, alkaline cleaner is effective for the removal of fats, proteins, grease, feces, and other biological material in swine barns, on equipment, and for transport vehicles. Phosphate-free, foaming, alkaline cleaners are available in both chlorinated and non-chlorinated formulations.

As the swine industry strives to optimize productivity and profitability, it is faced with important decisions regarding pig health and performance, biosecurity practices, and the environment. Therefore, it is quite evident the impact that the implementation of phosphate-free, biodegradable cleaners can have in serving as a component in protecting pigs from infectious disease and contributing to the sustainability of the environment.

Phosphate-Free EVO from Kersia

(Kersia USA)

Advanced Solution for Swine Health

Mon, 02 Mar 2026 19:00:38 GMT

FORMYL^™ is a cutting-edge feed additive designed to enhance the health and productivity of swine. Our proprietary blend of encapsulated calcium formate and citric acid ensures optimal delivery and efficacy.

Benefits of FORMYL

Effective Feed Acidifier: FORMYL’s calcium formate is a highly effective feed acidifier and antimicrobial agent that combats pathogens by damaging their cell membranes, promoting a healthy gut environment for swine.
Non-Antibiotic Solution: FORMYL offers a non-antibiotic solution for bacterial control. Formic acid contributes to the prevention of Enterobacteriaceae challenges and avoiding Escherichia coli associated losses during the production cycle.
Encapsulation Technology: The encapsulation technology used in FORMYL allows for safer handling and better efficacy, ensuring that the organic acids arrive at the site of action in an undissociated form for maximum impact.

Why Choose FORMYL?

Targeted Delivery: Kemin’s encapsulation technology ensures that FORMYL’s active ingredients are released where they’re needed in the gastrointestinal tract.
Pathogen Control: FORMYL plays a crucial role as an acidifier inhibiting harmful pathogens and supporting the overall intestinal balance and health of your swine.
Enhanced Performance: By maintaining a healthy gut environment, FORMYL contributes to improved efficiency and profitability throughout the production cycle.

At Kemin, we’re dedicated to transforming the quality of life every day with our products and services. FORMYL is a testament to our commitment, developed to meet the highest standards of efficacy and safety.

Discover how FORMYL can make a difference in your swine operation.

New Market Research Finds Consumers in Eight Key Pork Markets Are Likely to Purchase Pork from Gene-Edited Pigs

Thu, 26 Feb 2026 15:23:11 GMT

Food is personal. And so is trust. Across cultures, cuisines and continents, the choices people make about what to feed their families are rooted in deeply held values—health, safety, affordability and confidence in how food is produced. That trust is something the global pork industry works to earn every day.

At the heart of that work is a shared responsibility of producing high-quality, safe and nutritious food while caring for animals.

“Everything we do is about protecting those pigs from disease and making sure that we are able to help feed a growing population,” said fifth-generation Missouri hog farmer Chris Chinn.

That perspective resonates with producers worldwide, particularly as they face ongoing challenges from endemic diseases such as Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome (PRRS). With new advancements in animal health and genetics, how do producers continue to innovate while maintaining—and strengthening—consumer trust?

Understanding Consumer Acceptance Across Markets

To better understand how consumers view emerging technologies in pork production, PIC commissioned Circana, a global leader in consumer behavior insights, to survey more than 5,000 people, ages 18 to 70, in the United States, Canada, Japan, China, Mexico, the Dominican Republic, Colombia and Brazil.

“This eight-country study is one of the largest global studies ever conducted on gene editing in food production,” said Staci Covkin, Circana Principal of Innovation, Consumer & Shopper Insights. “It reflects a meaningful investment in listening to consumers before bringing a product to market.”

Despite differences in language and food traditions, the research revealed a common thread: Consumers across all eight countries expressed a strong likelihood of purchasing pork from PRRS-resistant pigs.

“This wasn’t about convincing consumers,” Covkin added. “It was about understanding what matters to them, how they want it communicated, and how those values map back to the product.”

Why PRRS Resistance Matters to Consumers

Across all surveyed markets, the most influential motivator for purchasing pork from PRRS-resistant pigs was responsibly reducing the need for antibiotics. At the same time, PRRS increases the need for antibiotics by more than two-and-half times.²

Additional Insights from the Research Include:

Consumers who purchase and eat pork at least three times per month indicated above-average purchase likelihood.
Consumers who prioritize healthy eating were likely to view pork from PRRS-resistant pigs favorably.
Both younger and older consumers demonstrated strong openness to purchasing pork from gene-edited pigs.
On average across all eight countries, 47% of consumers indicated they are already familiar with gene editing.
More than 90% of consumers, on average, indicated they are open to purchasing pork from PRRS-resistant pigs.

Importantly, Circana’s likelihood scores are grounded in benchmarks developed through thousands of concept tests conducted for major consumer packaged goods companies over the past ten years.

“Circana Concept Testing has a 90%+ accuracy rate in predicting consumer behavior,” Covkin noted. “These results suggest openness that is not just theoretical, but likely to translate into real purchasing decisions.”

A Measured Path Forward

“Consumers want to know how the choices the pork industry makes benefit animals, farmers and families,” said Charlie Arnot, CEO of The Center for Food Integrity. “When the purpose is clear and grounded in care for animals, acceptance is likely to follow.”

For PRRS-resistant pigs, that purpose is straightforward—improving animal welfare, reducing the impact of a devastating animal disease and thus, responsibly reducing the need for antibiotics.

Circana’s research suggests that as the world learns more about gene editing, consumers are open to the benefits that come with the technology. Across diverse markets, consumers are willing to embrace innovation when it can improve animal welfare and support responsible food production.

As the global pork industry continues to evolve, these insights offer reassurance that innovation and trust can go hand-in-hand by delivering food that meets the values that consumers say they care about most.

Sources:
1. Circana Research Summary, commissioned by PIC. “Gene Editing Consumer & Shopper Insights,” November 2025.
2. Machado I, Petznick T, Poeta Silva APS, et al. Assessment of changes in antibiotic use in grow-finish pigs after the introduction of PRRSV in a naïve farrow-to-finish system. Prev Vet Med. 2024;233:106350. doi:10.1016/J.PREVETMED.2024.106350

Where Finisher Performance Really Begins

Wed, 28 Jan 2026 15:04:09 GMT

In pork production, finishing performance does not begin in the finisher barn. It is largely determined in the earliest phases of a pig’s life. Genetics that support Early Phase Vitality set the foundation for pigs that finish stronger, convert feed more efficiently, and deliver higher overall profitability.

Early Phase Vitality refers to a combination of key traits, including robustness, survivability, and birth weight. These traits influence how well pigs handle stressors, transitions, and health challenges later in life. Topigs Norsvin’s TN Duroc highlights how Early Phase Vitality is a key factor for both finishing success and feed conversion efficiency.

A Strong Start Creates Robust Finishers

Pigs that begin life strong are better equipped to perform through every subsequent phase. TN Duroc offspring demonstrate this clearly as they move into the finishing phase. Their strong start during farrowing and piglet rearing supports proper gastrointestinal development and immune system function, both of which are essential for resilience later on.

As pigs transition from nursery to finisher, they encounter several challenges, including dietary changes, environmental shifts, social stress, and disease pressure. Pigs lacking robustness often respond to these challenges with reduced intake, slower growth, or health setbacks. In contrast, pigs with high Early Phase Vitality recover more quickly, maintain intake, and experience less disruption in performance.

This resilience shows up in measurable outcomes. Across multiple trials, TN Duroc offspring have demonstrated finishing mortality that is 0.3 to 3.6 percentage points lower than other Duroc lines . Lower mortality not only improves throughput but also reduces labor, medication costs, and management intervention during the finishing phase.

Undisturbed Growth Drives Uniformity and Throughput

Robust finishers grow more consistently. TN Duroc offspring are less sensitive to health and environmental disturbances, allowing for undisturbed growth and improved uniformity through market weight. Uniform groups simplify management decisions, support standardized feeding programs, and improve the percentage of pigs delivered in higher-quality categories.

From an operational standpoint, fewer disruptions mean fewer “problem pens,” less sorting, and more predictable performance. These advantages directly tie back to Early Phase Vitality, enabling pigs to fully express their genetic potential instead of using energy for recovery and immune response.

Early Phase Vitality and Feed Conversion Are Directly Linked

Feed efficiency remains the largest economic driver in finishing barns. Efficient conversion of feed into lean, high-quality pork requires pigs that maintain intake and digestive efficiency, even under pressure.

Early Phase Vitality plays a direct role here. TN Duroc offspring enter the finishing phase with a well-developed gastrointestinal tract and a strong immune system. This combination enables them to digest nutrients more efficiently and maintain feed intake during mild health or environmental challenges.

Comparative trials show TN Duroc outperforming other Duroc lines by 0.02 to 0.07 points in feed conversion . While these numbers may appear small, the economic impact is substantial. Every 0.01 improvement in feed conversion represents approximately 2.2 pounds of feed saved per pig, translating into 4.4 to 15.4 pounds of feed savings per marketed animal.

Those feed savings compound quickly across large production systems, directly improving margin without sacrificing growth rate or carcass quality.

Maximizing Genetic Potential from Birth to Market

Early Phase Vitality ensures that genetic potential is not lost to early setbacks. When pigs remain healthy, uniform, and resilient, producers can apply consistent feeding strategies and fully leverage the growth and efficiency traits bred into the terminal sire line.

For TN Duroc, feed efficiency and robustness are not trade-offs; they are complementary outcomes of a balanced breeding strategy. The result is a finisher pig that grows efficiently, requires fewer resources, and delivers more value at market.

The Bottom Line

Finishing performance starts early. Early Phase Vitality creates pigs that are more robust, experience lower mortality, and grow with fewer disruptions. That same foundation supports improved feed conversion through better gut development, stronger immunity, and consistent intake.

For producers focused on throughput, efficiency, and profitability, investing in genetics that prioritize Early Phase Vitality pays dividends all the way to market weight.

New Market Research Finds U.S. Consumer Interest in Pork from Gene-Edited Pigs

Tue, 30 Dec 2025 17:53:06 GMT

What do consumers really think about purchasing pork from gene-edited pigs?

It’s an important question, and one that Circana—a global leader in consumer behavior insights—has spent years researching, polling more than 8,000 consumers across numerous studies to find an answer.

“Circana has conducted research on this topic for more than two-and-a-half years, consistently finding that gene-edited pork scores in the upper quintiles when consumers are introduced to the concept and its benefits, which indicates that consumers are motivated to buy pork from gene-edited pigs,” said Staci Covkin, Circana Principal of Innovation, Consumer & Shopper Insights.

Circana’s most recent research, commissioned by PIC, surveyed more than 5,000 consumers across eight countries, ages 18 to 70.

“This eight-country study is one of the largest global studies ever conducted by Circana, and reinforces PIC’s commitment to understanding the consumer,” said Staci Covkin, Circana Principal of Innovation, Consumer & Shopper Insights.

Consumers favor responsibly reducing the need for antibiotics

Among U.S. consumers, responsibly reducing the need for antibiotics is a primary motivator for purchasing pork produced this way. In fact, heavy pork consumers, females, healthy meat consumers and boomers indicated an above average purchase likelihood of pork from gene-edited pigs.

“Circana Concept Testing has a 90%+ accuracy rate on in-market retail, category, brand, and consumer behavior predictions,” said Covkin. “Circana has conducted thousands of concept tests for major consumer packaged goods and general merchandise manufacturers over the past 10 years and has validated numerous successes across many different categories.”

When directly asked if U.S. consumers would avoid pork produced this way, fewer than 6% of respondents indicated they would be less likely to purchase this pork.

Results affirmed by additional research

The findings of Circana’s research closely aligned with research completed by the Center for Food Integrity (CFI) and Food Industry Association (FMI), which also found that pork from gene-edited pigs performed above benchmark norms for purchase likelihood and that the strongest acceptance is driven by reduced antibiotic use.²

Similarly, CFI and FMI’s research identified that heavy pork consumers, females, healthy meat consumers and boomers indicated an above average likelihood of pork from gene-edited pigs.

Per CFI, “results show that PRRS-resistant pork can be positioned as a widely accepted gene-edited product.”

While PRRS-resistant pigs are not yet for sale in the U.S., research like Circana’s and CFI and FMI’s helps to illustrate that consumers are open to technology when it delivers direct benefits to them and to our shared food system.

“Gene editing offers incredible promise, but success depends on connecting with consumers and delivering benefits that align with their values,” said Charlie Arnot, CEO of The Center for Food Integrity. “Consumers are much more open to gene-edited products when the benefits are clear, personal and values-based.”

As familiarity of gene editing has grown over the last three years, so has acceptance of gene editing. In fact, familiarity has increased from 37% to 57% from December 2024 to November 2025.

Consumers continue to evolve on this topic, and PIC is committed to continuing to understand their needs and perspectives.

References:
¹ Circana Research Summary, commissioned by PIC. “Gene Editing Consumer & Shopper Insights,” November 2025.
² The Center For Food Integrity. “The Potential of Gene Editing.” November 2025. https://app-na1.hubspotdocuments.com/documents/20661110/view/1522204506?accessId=a980d7
MI#119

Delivering Results from Start to Finish with the TN Duroc

Fri, 12 Dec 2025 20:25:03 GMT

In an industry where every pig and every day counts, producers need genetics that deliver consistent performance from start to finish. The TN Duroc from Topigs Norsvin has been selected for its characteristics that enable fast, uniform growth, ease of management, and measurable returns.

Early Phase Vitality: A Strong Start that Pays Off

Every successful finishing phase begins with a healthy, resilient piglet. TN Duroc offspring are known for being “easy to start in the nursery,” thanks to their adaptability and strength during the critical post-weaning transition.

Weaning is one of the most challenging periods for piglets, as they encounter a new environment and changes in feed while their immune systems are still developing. The TN Duroc’s Early Phase Vitality ensures piglets adapt quickly, start eating sooner, and maintain steady growth. That means fewer setbacks, healthier pigs, and smoother operations for producers and caretakers.

This built-in resilience reduces early health issues, lowers treatment costs, and minimizes the need for extra labor, helping producers save both time and money while maintaining performance.

High Growth, High Efficiency

Once established in the nursery, TN Duroc piglets grow fast and efficiently. On commercial farms, TN Duroc offspring have demonstrated growth rates up to 2.1% higher than comparable Duroc lines, averaging 0.02 pounds more per day.

That accelerated growth, during the nursery phase, not only helps producers hit key milestones sooner, but it also keeps groups more uniform and easier to manage. Fast-growing pigs reach market weight more quickly, improving throughput and overall farm efficiency.

Uniform growth also brings peace of mind. When every pig in the group performs consistently, producers can plan with confidence, avoiding disruptions caused by non-uniform groups.

Smooth Transition, Strong Finish

When pigs move from the nursery to grow/finish phase, TN Duroc offspring handle the transition with ease. Their strong start positions them for a seamless transition to new environments and diets, enabling consistent feed intake and steady growth.

This smooth transition reduces stress, helps maintain herd health, and supports improved feed conversion, the foundation for profitability in finishing operations. Fewer growth interruptions and health problems also mean reduced labor needs and a more efficient work environment.

As the saying goes, “well begun is half done.” With the TN Duroc, a strong beginning leads to a strong finish.

The TN Duroc Advantage

From start to finish, TN Duroc pigs are selected to make production easier, more efficient, and more profitable. Their fast growth, strong health, and consistent performance create a system that supports both animal welfare and producer success.

Key advantages include:

Smooth transitions from farrowing to finishing
Lower health and management costs
Faster growth and improved feed efficiency
Consistent, uniform groups for easier planning
High carcass quality and strong returns

When it comes to real-world results, TN Duroc delivers measurable progress. Based on the principles of Balanced Breeding and driven by Early Phase Vitality, the TN Duroc delivers results from start to finish.

Engineering Airflow without Compromise

Mon, 08 Dec 2025 16:26:23 GMT

For decades, the swine industry has depended on traditional induction motors; however, their performance can falter under pressure. When faced with heat, wind resistance, or fluctuating loads, they tend to slow down, resulting in reduced airflow right when it’s needed most.

The AirStorm Pro™ Fan line eliminates this compromise. Built around the innovative Omni-EC™ direct drive motor, it combines advanced technology with premium components to deliver powerful airflow, exceptional reliability, and precise control—ensuring efficient, reliable ventilation performance when it matters.

Unlike traditional motors, the Omni-EC™ motor continuously monitors speed and thermal conditions in real-time, automatically adjusting torque and speed to maintain optimal performance across a wide speed range (400-700 RPM). Seamless integration with thermostats and sensors enables precise fan speed control that responds to your barn’s changing needs, while built-in overload protection prevents the failures that plague outdated induction fans in extreme conditions. The result: powerful airflow, exceptional durability, and energy-efficient ventilation that keeps your livestock comfortable and productive. Omni-EC™ motor technology isn’t just an incremental improvement—it’s engineering designed to perform without compromise.

Hog Slat, Inc.

(Hog Slat, Inc.)

Advanced Motor Technology: Built-In Intelligence for Peace of Mind

Powered by Leeson motors and protected by an industry-leading 3-year full replacement warranty (non-prorated) on the Omni-EC™ motor and drive combination, the AirStorm Pro represents advanced motor technology engineered for reliability.

Built-In Protection. The motor continuously monitors speed and thermal conditions, automatically adjusting to prevent overheating and ensure reliable airflow when you need it most. Built-in overload protection safeguards against the failures that plague outdated induction direct drive fans in extreme conditions.

No Remote Drive. With the drive embedded directly in the motor, installation is streamlined, and potential failure points are reduced. No remote drive means fewer components to maintain and greater long-term reliability.

Efficient Power. Active Power Factor Correction (PFC) reduces the noise and current fluctuations typical of standard VFD/ECM systems. The result is an amperage draw comparable to traditional belt-driven motors, enabling smaller electrical circuit requirements without sacrificing performance.

Extended Lifespan. Soft start and stop features reduce mechanical stress on components, while intelligent thermal management prevents burnout from heat and pressure. These protections work together to maximize motor lifespan and minimize downtime.

Real Rewards Where It Matters

ECM motors deliver 10-20% greater efficiency than standard induction motors at full speed, with efficiency gains reaching up to 30% at reduced speeds. This translates directly to lower operating costs while maintaining the precise airflow control your operation demands.

“Better airflow means more consistent temperatures, reduced stress, and better pig performance,” says Ross Thompson, Hog Slat Ventilation Director. “ECM motors give us the ability to fine-tune ventilation like never before—delivering the right amount of airflow, exactly when it’s needed.”

Upgrade without starting from scratch

You don’t need to start from scratch. Retrofit kits make upgrading to Omni-EC™ technology straightforward and cost-effective. You get all the benefits of advanced ECM performance—precision control, energy savings, and built-in intelligence—without replacing your entire ventilation system.

In an industry where margins matter and reliability is non-negotiable, the AirStorm Pro delivers ventilation engineering designed to perform without compromise—giving you the power, efficiency, and control to optimize your barn environment and maximize productivity.

For more information, contact your local Hog Slat salesperson HS/GPE/ESPS/SAS Sales Representatives Contact Information | Hog Slat

New Research Forecasts Significant Economic and Market Impacts with PRRS-Resistant Pig Adoption

Wed, 03 Dec 2025 16:57:42 GMT

In April 2025, PIC was granted approval by the FDA for the gene edit used in its PRRS-resistant pig, an extraordinary step forward in eliminating challenges from one of the most serious global pig diseases.

Now, research published in the August 2025 American Journal of Veterinary Research has revealed a model of potential global economic and market impacts associated with adoption of this new technology.¹

PIC commissioned Dr. Jayson Lusk, Vice President and Dean of Oklahoma State University’s Division of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources, and Regents Professor to develop the economic model used in the research.

Since 2000, Lusk has published more than 280 articles in peer-reviewed scientific journals. Much of this research was focused on consumer demand, how consumers respond to new technologies and food products, how demand translates through the agricultural supply chain, and, ultimately, how these changes impact farmers.

Modeling to solve the big questions

The potential of pigs resistant to PRRS, a disease endemic to the global pork industry, could be significant. The question becomes, what will happen when the technology is available to breeding herds? How will it impact pork production and prices? What does it mean for farmers and consumers?

Lusk’s research constructed an economic model to find out.

“The model linked the supply of market hogs on the one end to demand for pork by consumers on the other end, and it does that in a way that also links global trade,” says Lusk. “So, you have our major pork producers in countries like the U.S., China, Canada and other parts throughout the world and links those to each other in terms of global trading patterns.”

Industry impact: Potential increased profit per head

The model allowed Lusk to evaluate different technology adoption rates.

“What we’re able to do is say, ‘if we had 5% adoption, 10% adoption, 100% adoption of PRRS-resistant pigs, what would happen?’” says Lusk. “The overarching story is that as adoption increases, pork production increases and pork prices fall.”

But that doesn’t mean bad news for pork producers, according to Lusk.

“The important thing to note is that costs fall more than prices fall,” adds Lusk. “So, you’re able to sell more pork at a lower cost, and the result is those people that adopt PRRS-resistant pigs are more profitable.”

Production and price shifts also increase U.S. exports.Ultimately, more pigs and pork produced at a positive margin can increase total industry profit, according to Lusk’s model.

Consumer impact: More, affordable pork

“The main benefit of eliminating PRRS that consumers could see directly is lower food prices,” says Lusk.

According to Lusk and his model, by eliminating or reducing PRRS, consumers could also enjoy indirect benefits like improved animal welfare and reduced antibiotic usage², which have been identified as important to consumers.

Other animal and plant proteins will no doubt seek their own novel innovations to increase future productivity and vie for a spot on the consumer’s dinner plate. In fact, there are more than 500 gene-edited crops either available for sale or in development ^.3

“As a pork industry, innovating now for higher productivity will help maintain pork’s spot and industry profitability,” says Lusk.

Adoption can be a net-positive even if demand dips slightly

Lusk’s model notes that even if consumers reduce their willingness to pay for pork in response to this technology’s adoption, it will take a “really large” reduction to offset productivity gains. Likewise, Lusk notes, that if global trade patterns changed (ie, a country decides not to import pork from a country using this technology), productivity gains would likely remain a net positive for U.S. industry profitability, per the research^.

To dig deeper into the research, watch this interview with Dr. Jayson Lusk or read the full research paper .

Sources:
1. Lusk, JL. “Global adoption of porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome-resistant pigs will have significant economic and market impacts.” American Journal of Veterinary Research. August 2025. https://avmajournals.avma.org/view/journals/ajvr/86/11/ajvr.25.05.0188.xml
2. Machado, Isadora Fernanda. Assessment of changes in antibiotic use in grow-finish pigs after the introduction of PRRSV in a naïve farrow-to-finish system. Dec. 2023. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0167587724002368?via%3Dihub
3. S&P Global. Gene-edited crops market growth spurred by regulatory progress and approvals. Jan. 2023. Accessed November, 2025. https://www.spglobal.com/commodity-insights/en/research-analytics/gene-edited-crops-market-growth-spurred-by-regulatory-progress

Cut this winter’s sow losses

Mon, 20 Oct 2025 17:24:54 GMT

How many pigs must you lose before you’ll revisit your biosecurity plans? Cooler weather means tighter barns, more stressors, and a greater risk of viral outbreaks, especially in sow units where the loss is two-fold: an infected sow can mean an affected litter.

Incidents of porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome (PRRS) ramp up in the winter. Known for its fast transmission and the plethora of secondary bacterial infections that it can cause, PRRS costs the swine industry in the United States alone an estimated $1.2 billion annually.

With “PRRS season” fast approaching, now is the time to ensure the farm has a comprehensive biosecurity plan with instructions that the on-site crew and any visitor can abide by and tools that support sow health.

Biosecurity at the farm
First, as the seasons change, the crews in the barn may be swapping their fashions. The separation of “inside the barn” clothes and “outside the barn” clothes cannot be overstated. No one wants to be the cause of a pathogen outbreak at a different site because they tracked something in on their clothes.

There is often a lot of movement inside a sow operation, and not just by the pigs. Whether you’re moving through one barn or multiple barns throughout the day, those tasked with caring for pigs should have their visits begin with the youngest pigs and end with the oldest. Older pigs are more likely to pick up pathogens, and you don’t want to transfer something from those pigs to the neonates as you move through the herd or the barns.

Now is the time to inspect the barn’s air filtration system, if you have one installed. Winter is coming; we’re starting to close the barns. You want to check the filter boxes for interruptions, leaks, and any other changes that may require maintenance to ensure the barns are as protected as you planned.

Visits from outsiders are probably more frequent than most production managers would like. And their familiarity with a barn can range from someone very familiar with biosecurity or someone who doesn’t have much experience with swine operations at all. Regardless of the visitor, it’s important to ensure they follow biosecurity rules. Make sure the visit includes some time talking about the rules that are designed to keep both people and pigs healthy.

Novus International, Inc.

(Novus International, Inc.)

Biosecurity at the feed mill
Admittedly, on-farm biosecurity gets lots of attention, whereas feed mill biosecurity can be overlooked. As part of the same chain, biosecurity strategies in the mill are a key part of the plan especially since the mill sends people/trucks/feed from multiple locations and to multiple locations.

The top tip is to store feed correctly. Make sure feed ingredients and finished feed are stored in covered, sealed bins to prevent environmental contamination.

Just like on the pig farm, maintain people and visitor logs. This can help track potential biosecurity breaches.

While this tip may only apply to smaller operations, it’s still important to remember: Because viruses can survive in feed, it’s necessary to minimize shared equipment between mill and farm. Transferring pathogens from one location to another over and over again can have catastrophic results.

Lastly, be sure to establish “clean/dirty” zones for load-out and ingredient receiving – just like you do in your barns. Again, cross-contamination can happen. Establishing these zones is easier than managing an outbreak across multiple areas.

Biosecurity in the feed
When creating biosecurity plans, feed is one area that can be overlooked. Research from Pipestone shows that viruses like PRRS, porcine epidemic diarrhea (PEDv), and African Swine Fever can survive in feed, which means every feed delivery is a potential entry point for pathogens to get into your herd and impact both pig health and farm profits.

There are additives that claim to reduce/eliminate pathogens, but it’s important to read the fine print. Some additives only provide a certain level of security – you may still find intact virus particles in the feed. At a low level of virus pressure, this may give some protection. But as the virus load increases, these products may be overwhelmed and the pigs may be infected even with the additive in place. This is why controlling feed-based transmission is emerging as a frontline defense, especially during seasonal pressure.

One strategy to support your feed biosecurity plan is through acidification of the feed. Using a powerful acidifier ( ACTIVATE® DA Nutritional Feed Acid – a blend of organic acids including methionine source HMTBa, benzoic acid, and fumaric acid) has been shown to help reduce PRRS presence in feed and support sow gut health.

A live-pig production trial tested the organic acid blend against a PRRS challenge where pigs across three diet groups ate contaminated feed: control and the blend at 0.15% or at 0.5%.

By day 6, only the control group’s feed and oral fluid samples tested positive for the PRRS challenge strain. Neither of the groups fed the organic acid blend (0.15% or 0.5%) showed the virus in feed samples or pig saliva.

Necropsy results on day 14 of pigs that ate the blend showed no clinical signs of PRRS, while pigs from the control group showed clinical and diagnostic signs of PRRS infection. This means ACTIVATE® DA helped to reduce viral presence in the feed, and the pigs that ate the blend also didn’t become infected by contaminated feed – a two-fold result that demonstrates protection in the feed and in the animals.

Novus International, Inc.

(Novus International, Inc.)

Biosecurity in every part of your operation
These suggestions are just a sample of things to consider. Your trusted partners on-farm may have more ideas for your unique operation. But now is the time to have those conversations. An overwhelming number of pigs in the U.S. industry die annually from PRRS infection and secondary challenges. A comprehensive biosecurity plan is vital to improving sow survivability.

From in-store ads to pork recipes, see how the Pork Checkoff is getting consumers to add more pork to their meals and their shopping carts.

Fri, 26 Sep 2025 18:02:32 GMT

Neal Hull joined the National Pork Board (NPB) in 2019 as director of domestic market development. He leads the field team of channel market development managers to align NPB’s strategies with key retail and foodservice customers across the country; he is focused on building trust, adding value and creating demand for U.S. pork. Neal has more than 30 years of experience in the food industry, including foodservice and retail.

Neal grew up on a small farm near Moravia, Iowa, where his family raised pigs and other livestock. He graduated from Iowa State University with a Bachelor of Business Administration degree in marketing and minored in speech communication.

Neal and his wife, Sara, have three children and reside in Austin, Minnesota.

All Hands on Deck

We’ve been talking about it for months now: the new Taste What Pork Can Do^TMconsumer campaign from the National Pork Board (NPB). Launched in May, the new effort is the biggest consumer outreach campaign NPB has produced in 25 years.

Unlike any other NPB consumer campaign, we’re using research-backed, digital-forward tactics to drive demand here at home. A long-term play to boost demand, the Taste What Pork Can Do^TM effort prioritizes the eating behaviors of new audiences and puts pork front and center as a convenient, nutritious, tasty and flavorful protein.

The goal — and challenge — is reaching younger consumers, including Millennials and Gen Zers, by using data to deliver actual, positive results.

Power in Partners

To help us achieve our goal — and meet that challenge — we’re working with stakeholders throughout the value chain to make sure we’re pulling the right levers. A key to ensuring the success of this new consumer outreach campaign is our retail partners across the country.

NPB has connected with retailers regularly for many years and in many ways, including through our Retail Advisory Committee (RAC). The committee meetings offer a direct, industry-specific tool for connecting retail community leaders with important pre-competitive information about pork and NPB’s marketing efforts while allowing NPB to learn from retailers about what is and isn’t working on the ground.

At this year’s spring meeting, NPB shared more about the new consumer campaign. We shared with retailers the new tagline, and, through a culinary exercise, showed retail attendees the versatility of pork and its role as an ingredient, a key element to selling more pork to Millennial and Gen Z shoppers.

Boots on the Ground

Retailers play a critical role in the supply chain, which is why NPB’s approach to market growth — including the new campaign — was built with retailers in mind.

RAC Chair, Tony Manker, is the senior director of Meat & Seafood for Schnuck Markets and has worked with NPB to gather feedback from retailers on the new campaign.

According to Tony, “Now is a pivotal time where the younger generations are looking for those new ideas and new flavors and new ways to prepare things. A lot of what I do is just getting our retailers into a room and saying, ‘All right, how can we all, collectively, educate our consumers to buy more pork?’ Because we know how delicious, versatile and affordable it is. We need to get that across to our consumers.”

With that in mind, NPB built the new campaign, in part, to help support retailers’ existing activities. Schnucks, with stores located in the Midwest, is one of the first retail partners to be in the market with the new consumer campaign and often provides customers with recipe ideas as an added value to their product offerings. To build on the Taste What Pork Can Do^TM campaign, Schnucks began including the new brand in their summer marketing efforts, highlighting pork cuts and offering customers recipes so they can confidently cook what they purchase.

At the Starting Line

With stores like Schnucks rolling out pieces of the new campaign nationwide, NPB is collecting data to determine if it’s working as designed. It’s the starting line of a long-term campaign where NPB will continue to support retailers at the store level, so people who see our ads can go to the store and connect the ads with pork products.

What’s more, the new approach to consumer marketing will continue to build on the pork industry’s strengths, including flavor and consumers’ existing affinity for our products. And, it doubles down on our long-standing commitment to our retail partners while providing an opportunity to deliver a positive message that connects on an emotional level.

Working on the retail side, on behalf of the nation’s pork producers, I’m so excited to see how our retailers are helping consumers learn more about the Taste What Pork Can Do^TM campaign. To learn more about how the Pork Checkoff is building a bigger appetite for pork — and to see the campaign for yourself — visit porkcheckoff.org/2025 .

The time to prepare for co-infections is now!

Wed, 24 Sep 2025 16:13:01 GMT

Fall and winter are quickly approaching. During these times, swine producers are increasingly challenged by co-infections, which can significantly impact herd health, productivity, and profitability. Thorough diagnostics and surveillance are essential to ensure your herd remains protected against endemic and newly introduced pathogens.

Traditional commercial vaccines may not always provide sufficient protection against the specific pathogens present in a given system. That’s where custom-made autogenous vaccines, such as those developed by Vaxxinova, come into play.

What are co-infections?

Co-infections in pigs can involve both bacterial and viral agents, acting synergistically to increase disease severity and reduce vaccine effectiveness. Common co-infective scenarios include:

Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome Virus (PRRSV) with Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae and/or Swine Influenza Virus (SIV)
Glaesserella parasuis and/or Streptococcus suis co-infecting the central nervous system with or without a viral pre-cursor of PRRSV or SIV
Escherichia coli and rotavirus in neonatal diarrhea

These co-infections can complicate diagnosis, limit the efficacy of commercial vaccines (which may target only one pathogen), and result in more severe clinical signs, prolonged disease courses, and greater economic losses.

Autogenous vaccines provide customized protection.

Autogenous vaccines are custom-made using pathogen isolates collected from a specific herd. They are especially valuable when:

Commercial vaccines are unavailable or ineffective against local strains.
Multiple pathogens need to be addressed simultaneously.
Resistance patterns or emerging diseases are of concern.

What producers can do.

Producers can submit their farm’s current isolates or swabs to Vaxxinova’s diagnostics lab. Diagnostics shippers can be obtained by reaching out to Vaxxinova at info.us@vaxxinova.com or requesting a kit from their website at https://vaxxinova.us.com/tools/ .

What Vaxxinova will do.

Pathogens will be grown and antigens isolated using Vaxxinova’s patented techniques. Vaxxinova uses cutting edge tools, such as whole genome sequencing (WGS), to determine the genetic makeup of a pathogen to personalize vaccines once samples are received at their state-of-the-art diagnostic laboratory. With the use of WGS, Vaxxinova’s scientists can isolate, identify, and precisely determine the exact disease-causing pathogens circulating in a farm’s herd; allowing for better selection, which in turn helps provide a better immune response.

Depending on the herd’s needs, vaccines will then be produced with the appropriate adjuvants, dosing regimens (e.g., one- or two-dose protocols), and delivery formats to support efficient implementation in swine production systems.

Also, Vaxxinova proudly brings producers SRP® Technology – a unique patented way to make vaccines. SRP vaccines work by starving bacteria of iron, an essential element for bacterial health. SRP technology was discovered and developed in Vaxxinova’s laboratories, and they are the only manufacturer of this technology. When appropriate, SRP vaccines may be a wonderful part of a custom vaccine portfolio.

Conclusion

Using autogenous vaccines allows producers to directly address the specific pathogens and strains driving disease in their barns, especially in complex co-infection cases. Vaxxinova offers a powerful tool to manage these challenges through custom-formulated autogenous vaccines, backed by diagnostics, advanced vaccine technology, and veterinary support. For producers looking to fine-tune their health protocols and protect against the pathogens that matter most in their barns, autogenous vaccines represent a practical and effective solution. For more information, contact a representative at info.us@vaxxinova.com or call (800) 220-2522.

Improving herd health and welfare through selection for natural disease resilience

Fri, 19 Sep 2025 16:49:32 GMT

Disease is a major threat to pig production worldwide. Disease breaks impact profitability, disrupt pig flows, and compromise animal welfare. Many different factors contribute to the spread of disease, such as rearing animals in high-hog dense areas, gaps in biosecurity, and pathogen mutation. For this reason, disease control is considered a multifactorial issue which, therefore, requires a combination of different types of solutions. One such solution is breeding pigs for enhanced, natural resilience to disease.

Disease resilience is defined as an animal’s ability to maintain performance in the face of a disease challenge, or to recover quickly following exposure. According to this definition, disease resilience is not specific to a certain pathogen, but refers to animals that are simply better at responding to disease in general, whether caused by a viral pathogen, bacterial pathogen, or other disease-causing agent. There is substantial evidence from the literature, and from our own research trials, that this type of general resilience to disease is heritable. This means that it’s possible to identify animals with superior genetic merit for disease resilience which, when mated, produce offspring that are naturally more resilient to disease. Disease resilience, like most health and welfare traits, is controlled by many different genes. Therefore, the only way to take advantage of the combined effect of these genes is by using genetic selection.

In 2018, Topigs Norsvin began developing a strategy to breed pigs for enhanced, natural disease resilience. This strategy requires collecting data in real-world challenge scenarios, including exposure to major swine diseases. Data collected in this way captures variation in how pigs respond to disease, and are used to derive an individual’s genetic merit (i.e. breeding value) for disease resilience. This is the same process used to estimate genetic merit for other traits, like growth, feed conversion, and litter size.

In a recent “proof of concept” study, breeding values for disease resilience were estimated for TN Duroc boars at a single stud in the USA. These breeding values were estimated using thousands of genotypic and phenotypic records collected under diseased challenged conditions. Boars were then ranked based on their breeding value for disease resilience and the top 30 (aka “High Resilience”) and bottom 30 (aka “Low Resilience”) boars were selected to be used as sires. Topigs Norsvin TN70 females were inseminated with semen collected from either High or Low Resilient boars to produce pigs in the High vs. Low Resilience progeny group, respectively.

At weaning, pigs were placed in a commercial research barn and tissue was collected for genotyping. At approximately 51 days of age, pigs were exposed to PRRSV 1-8-4 and followed until marketing. In addition to PRRSV challenge, numerous secondary bacterial and viral pathogens were detected throughout the study, including Streptococcus suis, Pasteurella multocida, Glaesserella parasuis, and influenza A, among others. Repeated, individual body weight measurements, individual treatments, and mortality events were recorded throughout the trial.

Results from this study showed that the progeny of High Resilience boars had consistently greater ADG than the progeny of Low Resilience boars, whether evaluated for the first month post-challenge only, the entire challenge period (inoculation to market), or from wean-to-market (Table 1). The greatest difference in ADG was observed for the challenge period, where High Resilient progeny grew, on average,1.55 lbs/day, vs. 1.35 lbs/day for Low Resilient progeny. Progeny of boars selected for High Resilience also had a significantly lower treatment rate (i.e. the percent of pigs requiring one or more antibiotic treatments) for the first month post-challenge, and the entire wean-to-market period. Lastly, pigs sired by High Resilience boars had significantly lower mortality rate for each period evaluated, with an overall (wean-to-market) mortality rate of 24%, vs. 35% for pigs sired by Low Resilience boars.

In summary, pigs sired by High Resilient boars had significantly faster growth, lower treatment rate, and lower mortality rate than pigs sired by Low Resilient boars. Results from this study demonstrate that selecting pigs based on genetic merit for disease resilience is not only possible, but can be used to create substantial contrasts between pigs sired by boars selected based on genetic merit for this trait. Development of this breeding strategy is currently underway at Topigs Norsvin and will be implemented using the same, proven methodology already used to make genetic improvement in other traits included in Topigs Norsvin’s breeding goal. Selection for enhanced disease resilience is a natural genetic solution for improving pig health and welfare for diseases now, and in the future.

Table 1: Least-squares means and standard errors for average daily gain (ADG), treatment rate (percent of pigs requiring one or more antibiotic treatments), and mortality rate (percent of pigs that died), for pigs sired by boars selected based on high vs. low genetic merit for disease resilience.

Topigs Norsvin USA

(Topigs Norsvin USA)

To see additional results from this trial, click here to see the trial summary.

When Balance Breaks: Understanding Gut Dysbiosis and Structural Damage in Nursery Pigs

Thu, 12 Jun 2025 20:13:27 GMT

Weaning isn’t just a logistical shift in swine production—it’s a biological stressor that deeply disrupts a young pig’s gastrointestinal equilibrium. Nutritionists know that the post-weaning period can be a tipping point for lifetime performance.

Understanding what happens at the intestinal level is essential to designing programs that promote piglet health and productivity. At the core of this challenge are three key physiological disruptions: gut dysbiosis, villus atrophy, and compromised barrier function. Understanding these is essential for designing effective nutritional strategies.

The Microbial Shift: Gut Dysbiosis

The piglet microbiome is primarily shaped by the sow, who serves as the main source of microbial colonization and early development. However, after weaning, a shift occurs. The introduction of solid feed, loss of maternal antibodies, and new environmental stressors often result in a sharp reduction in commensal microbes and a concurrent rise in opportunistic pathogens, especially E. coli. This microbial imbalance—known as dysbiosis—is a key driver of post-weaning diarrhea, reduced feed efficiency, and inflammatory responses.

Structural Breakdown: Villus Atrophy

Weaning and dysbiosis set the stage for the second major issue: villus atrophy. The intestinal villi, responsible for nutrient absorption, shrink as the gut adapts to stress. Meanwhile, crypts deepen as cells work to replace damaged lining—faster, but less functional.

This shift in villus:crypt ratio reduces the effective absorptive surface area of the gut, diminishing the piglet’s ability to utilize feed efficiently. Even when diets are optimized on paper, the biological capacity to absorb nutrients may be compromised, leading to poor growth and feed conversion, and diarrhea.

Leaky Gut: Barrier Function Failure

Lastly, compromised intestinal barrier function—or “leaky gut"—emerges as inflammation escalates. Tight junctions between enterocytes loosen, allowing bacteria and toxins to enter systemic circulation. The result? Immune overactivation, diarrhea, and energy shifting away from growth and toward immune response.

This cascade effect amplifies feed inefficiency and can increase medication use, shifting overall nursery profitability.

What Nutrition Can Do

As with any challenge, nutritionists and producers can apply management practices to reduce post-weaning stress. A critical first step is starting with healthier piglets; maintaining a good health status in both sow and weaning barns is essential. Nutrition also plays a key role in supporting this transition.

In a recent study with pharmacological zinc oxide added to all diets to resemble production conditions in the United States, pigs supplemented with a control challenge diet that included E.coli F18 and protected benzoic acid (PBA; NOVUS® PB Feed Solution) showed a tendency for reduced diarrhea compared to the challenged control group and the group fed free benzoic acid. Furthermore, the final body weight of pigs fed PBA was numerically similar to pigs not challenged by E.coli F18, indicating a potential recovery in growth performance.

E.coli F18 challenge study

Novus International, Inc.

(Novus International, Inc.)

In the same study, challenged pigs fed PBA showed values of interleukin-10 (IL-10, an anti-inflammatory marker) close to non-challenged pigs compared to challenged pigs and challenged pigs fed free benzoic acid. This suggests pigs fed NOVUS® PB recovered from the E.coli F18 challenge.

E.coli F18 challenge study

Novus International, Inc.

(Novus International, Inc.)

The industry recognizes that benzoic acid is highly effective against pathogenic bacteria. PBA takes that efficacy a step further by providing a controlled release throughout the intestinal tract, where the most relevant pathogens of the post-weaning stage proliferate.

While these gut issues may seem non-negotiable in the nursery phase, these issues aren’t inevitable. With proactive gut health strategies that include science-backed nutrition, producers and nutritionists can identify warning signs early and deploy dietary programs that stabilize microbiota, protect intestinal architecture, and support immune readiness. This is an example of how intelligent nutrition solutions help the gut limit pathogens like E.coli and make a difference in overall piglet performance.

Get a Taste of What Pork Advertising Can Do

Wed, 21 May 2025 15:21:18 GMT

By Dwight Mogler, senior partner, Pig Hill Farms, Alvord, Iowa

Dwight Mogler is a senior partner at Pig Hill Farms, his family’s diversified livestock and crop farm. The family harvests 3,000 acres of row crops, markets 200,000 head of hogs from their farrow-to-finish operation, manages 4,000 head of market beef cattle from their feedlot operation and handles more than 4 million bushels of grain through their county grain elevator. Their latest business venture is Iowa Craft Meats, a coordinated supply chain that directly brings pork products from their farm to foodservice and retail customers.

Mogler is a member of several Iowa and Lyon County pork, cattle, corn and soybean farmer organizations, and recently served a three-year term on the National Pork Producers Council. He is a current board member of the Iowa Pork Producers Association and an active member of his church.

Dwight Mogler, senior partner, Pig Hill Farms, Alvord, Iowa

(National Pork Board)

Behind the Scenes, on the Front Lines

Pork is a leading protein consumed globally; domestically, it ranks third , making it a prime target for growth. However, that growth has been slow, especially without an industry-wide campaign to reach more consumers.

Enter the National Pork Board’s (NPB) new consumer campaign. As a pork producer, marketing certainly isn’t my subject of expertise. Yet, when I was asked to sit on the advisory group tasked with developing and vetting the Checkoff’s new national consumer campaign, I was happy to accept.

Serving in an advisory capacity allowed me a peek inside a process I’ve never experienced. As a member of the advisory group, I worked with NPB staff, agency personnel and consultants to bring a revolutionary new marketing campaign to life all while getting a front row seat to the how and the why: The Checkoff’s consumer segmentation research and data guiding the new outreach campaign.

It’s All About the Numbers

I wouldn’t have thought a new marketing campaign would pique my interest, but after learning more about the driving force behind it, I wasn’t surprised.

Pork producers are analytical—at least I am. In my operation, I’m guided daily by farm data which tells me where and how to expend my resources and whether those resources generate the return I expect.

The nuts and bolts of this campaign are no different. Using data gathered from the Checkoff’s consumer segmentation research, NPB designed a campaign focusing on younger consumers by utilizing targeted data to deliver actual results. Results will drive the campaign’s success, ultimately improving domestic demand and adding value to pork.

What’s more, the data the campaign is built upon—and the data gathered as it’s deployed—will allow us to adjust as needed to continue building consumer demand. As consumer trends evolve, so will the data, allowing the campaign to be more responsive and in-tune than ever before.

As a producer, marketing has never been reduced to data. In this case, basing a national marketing campaign on hard research provides added confidence that the campaign will be successful, provides quick feedback, and allows for changes as needed.

In it for the Long Haul

The Checkoff’s consumer research shows it’s time for a reboot. My generation is familiar with pork, but young generations—Millennials and Gen Z—aren’t as familiar, particularly with fresh cuts like loins and ribs. It’s a challenge that will take time, but this new consumer campaign helps younger generations focus on pork as an ingredient or mainstay in their daily menus.

That’s why, as producers, we have to be in it for the long haul and we can’t take our feet off the pedal. The new campaign is designed to be a long-term play to boost demand, bringing the campaign’s new tagline—Taste What Pork Can Do^TM—to life by prioritizing eating behaviors of this younger audience and putting pork front and center as a convenient, nutritious, tasty and flavorful protein.

Further, in this digital age, we’re reaching consumers where they are. The campaign will be deployed in densely populated urban areas where consumers live and shop; they’ll see digital ads and communication rather than printed materials because that’s how they consume media.

This intentional and focused outreach to consumers means that producers likely won’t see campaign materials in the wild. But that doesn’t mean producers will be left out of the equation; state associations and NPB will continue to communicate about the campaign and showcase materials on their channels so producers can stay up-to-date.

It’s Time to Taste What Pork Can Do^TM

I’m an optimist. In fact, I think optimism is a core value of any farmer. My behind-the-scenes look at this new campaign tells me it will undoubtedly feed optimism, for consumers and producers.

For consumers, it’s a fresh take on a staple protein presented in a way that makes sense in the here and now.

For producers, it all adds up to this: We’re creating a campaign that will help us accomplish the core purpose and function of the Checkoff, which is to promote pork and pork consumption. What’s more, it will help us create more value for the pigs we already raise and allow us to stay in tune with our supply chain. And I can’t wait to see what that means for the future of pork production here at home.

Learn more about the Checkoff’s new consumer campaign at porkcheckoff.org/2025 .

Take a Team Approach to Managing Scours

Wed, 30 Apr 2025 15:45:17 GMT

Healthy, thriving pigs start with a strong foundation, and managing scours effectively is key to their long-term success. While it’s easy to assume a common cause, scours in nursery pigs can stem from various factors.

Take a thoughtful, team-based approach to help uncover the real issues and find lasting results.

1. Don’t jump to conclusions

E. coli is a prevalent challenge in the swine industry, and it’s easy to point a finger at it when scours arise. However, many different sources can cause scours in nursery pigs.

Jumping to conclusions on the scours source can be costly. Oftentimes, producers will make feed or management adjustments assuming one cause, but it turns out to be something else. This knee-jerk reaction can result in wasting dollars on ineffective solutions. Or, if the wrong adjustment is made, it could introduce nutritional scours on top of the existing issue.

For example, one quick reaction some producers make is increasing dietary levels of steam-rolled oats to help tighten stools. However, steam-rolled oats aren’t always economically efficient; they take up a large share of the diet space and often won’t help get to the root cause of the scours.

No one wants to see sick pigs, and it’s natural to want to find a solution as soon as possible. However, being mindful of all the possibilities can be more beneficial in the long run.

2. Rely on your partners

Scours management works best as a three-legged stool between you, your nutritionist and your veterinarian. Working together will ensure you get to the true source of the issue and identify a solution faster and more effectively.

One of the most important steps is having extra eyes on your pigs. Your nutritionist and veterinarian can walk the barns to help you evaluate the situation and ask questions to uncover potential challenges, such as:

What’s happening at the slat level?
Does the feed look and smell as expected?
Has something changed in the diet?
Did you check water sources for heavy metals or other contaminants?
Are you seeing scours with no mortality?

In some cases, an increase in manure output may not indicate a problem but genetic progress. Today’s pigs are eating more at an earlier age, and when intakes go up, outputs also increase.

Your advisory partners can also help determine whether it’s truly scours and, if so, if it’s pathogenic or nutritional scours. From there, they can conduct further diagnostics, if necessary, and help identify a targeted solution to directly address the challenge. The solution may be a larger intervention or small adjustments that can make big impacts.

3. Dial in diets

Whether it’s scours or another challenge, nursery pigs face many stressors that can limit their growth and efficiency. It’s important to feed the right feed at the right time during this phase.

When economics aren’t favorable, it’s a common reaction to move pigs off the expensive feed more quickly than usual. On the flip side, if you’re anticipating a challenge occurring, you might end up overfeeding. These sudden changes in the diet can cause digestive upset.

Technologies in the starter diet can also help ensure smooth diet transitions and help address challenges facing nursery pigs. Work with your nutritionist to determine the right technology with the most benefit for your specific needs.

Always keep in mind – if you’re experiencing scours challenges, don’t jump to conclusions. Contact your Purina representative or visit purinamills.com/swine-feed to learn more and keep your pigs thriving.

How Customized Probiotics Are Reshaping Swine Production

Tue, 29 Apr 2025 20:48:06 GMT

In an industry where efficiency and animal health directly impact the bottom line, swine producers are increasingly turning to innovative solutions beyond traditional approaches. CERTILLUS , Arm & Hammer Animal Nutrition’s customized probiotic solution, is proving valuable not just for addressing gut health challenges but for enhancing overall production efficiency.

Understanding the Hidden Challenges
While acute gut health issues are well-recognized in swine production, less visible subclinical challenges often go unaddressed, according to Jesse Thompson, Sr. Product Manager for Microbial Solutions at Arm & Hammer Animal Nutrition.

“There are stacked stressors, maybe moderate levels of pathogens that aren’t necessarily killing the animal, but the immune system is diverted toward fighting pathogenic challenges, ultimately dragging on production.”

These subclinical challenges can significantly impact performance without showing obvious symptoms, making them difficult to identify without proper testing and analysis.

The Microbial Customization Process
What sets CERTILLUS apart is its customized approach based on extensive sampling and analysis.

“We’re customizing probiotics based on the specific challenges present in each operation. It’s not a one-size-fits-all solution,” Thompson notes. “Different probiotic strains do different things. This allows us to target our solutions specific to challenges in each operation.”

For swine operations, the approach is customer-specific. The team collects samples from the operation and develops a customized formulation for that facility.

What makes this approach particularly valuable is the ongoing optimization. “We’re re-evaluating every six months to ensure we have the optimal formulation,” says Thompson. “Pathogenic and disease challenges can change. What worked six months or a year ago might not be the most effective today.”

Three Pillars of CERTILLUS
According to Thompson, CERTILLUS for swine is built on three key pillars:
● Customization to inhibit specific pathogens: Unlike other probiotics, CERTILLUS is customized to inhibit pathogens specific to each operation.
● Improved gut integrity: Beyond inhibiting pathogens, CERTILLUS improves gut integrity within the host. This tightened gut barrier function translates to tangible benefits, including improved feed conversion efficiency, reduced treatment costs and more consistent weight gain.
● Improving microbial succession: “Establishing a healthy gut microbiome at an early age is critical for the success of that animal throughout their lifetime,” Thompson explains.

Benefits Beyond Disease Prevention
While many swine producers view probiotics as a solution for acute health challenges, their benefits extend further.

“We’ve done extensive trial work showing that we can improve gut maturation, which leads to performance benefits,” Thompson shares. “You’re setting that microbiome up for success not only at those young stages in life but even further on for development as an adult production animal.”

Practical Implementation
For optimal results, Thompson recommends starting with CERTILLUS in young animals. Swine producers are often more inclined to invest in prophylactic nutritional solutions in the sow-piglet production phase. However, benefits continue to outweigh cost through the full life cycle, including grow-finish.

Not All Probiotics Are Created Equal
Thompson emphasizes the importance of scientific validation. “The effectiveness of probiotics depends greatly on the research behind them,” he explains. “Some products haven’t undergone the same level of scientific scrutiny that we believe is essential.”

With a database of over 82,000 probiotic strains, Arm & Hammer Animal Nutrition continuously evaluates which specific Bacillus strains will be most effective for particular challenges. The company routinely assesses competitive products and has comparative data showing how CERTILLUS strains perform against major competitors in inhibiting pathogens like Clostridia and E. coli.

A Solution That Evolves
CERTILLUS isn’t static; it evolves as challenges change. “We’re continuously evolving our products, and as challenges within the industry and pathogens shift, so do our solutions,” Thompson emphasizes.

As the swine industry continues to face challenges from various fronts, solutions that enhance resilience and efficiency without adding management complexity become increasingly valuable. By supporting gut integrity, optimizing microbial succession, and addressing operation-specific pathogen challenges, advanced probiotics like CERTILLUS offer a science-backed pathway to improved performance and sustainable returns on investment.

For more information, visit the Arm & Hammer Animal Nutrition website.

A Robust Strategy for Future Disease Challenges

Fri, 14 Feb 2025 21:04:03 GMT

Improving performance under commercial conditions is a fundamental goal of Topigs Norsvin’s breeding program. One of the ways that Topigs Norsvin addresses this goal is by selecting for enhanced, general robustness. This strategy includes selecting for enhanced performance (including survival) during various phases of production, but also based on specific health traits, like conformation traits, body condition score, and reduced susceptibility to osteochondrosis and uterine prolapse. The newest addition to this list of target traits is robustness to disease.

At Topigs Norsvin, we define robustness to disease as the ability to maintain performance in the face of a disease challenge, or to recover quickly following exposure. In this sense, robustness is not specific to a certain pathogen, but refers to animals that are simply better at responding to disease in general, whether caused by a viral pathogen, bacterial pathogen, or other disease-causing agent. This approach relies on the use of traditional breeding; a methodology already used by our organization, and others, to facilitate genetic improvement in economically important traits and is globally accepted as an effective way to improve heritable traits in animal populations. Substantial evidence from literature, but also from our own research trials, shows that robustness to disease is heritable and, therefore, can be improved using traditional breeding strategies.

In fact, results from disease research trials conducted by (or in collaboration with) Topigs Norsvin, reveal substantial, natural variation in how pigs respond to a multifactorial disease challenge. Pigs in these trials were exposed to PRRS virus, and naturally co-infected with viral and bacterial pathogens. Therefore, data collected from these experiments capture variation in how pigs respond to real-world challenge scenarios with major swine diseases. Data collected from these trials are used to derive an individual’s genetic merit (i.e. breeding value) for overall robustness to disease, in the same way that genetic merit is estimated for growth, back fat, and other performance traits.

In a recent “proof of concept” study, breeding values for overall robustness to disease were estimated for Topigs Norsvin boar lines at a single stud. Boars were then ranked based on their breeding value for this trait: the top 30 boars were selected as sires for the “High Robustness” group, and the bottom 30 as sires for the “Low Robustness” group. At approximately seven weeks of age, progeny of these boars were exposed to a highly pathogenic strain of PRRS virus and naturally infected with a suite of viral and bacterial pathogens, including influenza, Streptococcus suis, Pasteurella multocida, and Glaesserella parasuis, among others. Results from this trial revealed up to a 10% difference in mortality rate between High- vs. Low-Robust progeny groups sired by one of Topigs Norsvin’s genetic lines.

In summary, results from this study, and previous trials, show that selection for enhanced, natural robustness to disease is an effective genetic solution for enhancing robustness to disease. In fact, selecting pigs for better general response to disease, is the only way to prepare for future (unknown) pathogen challenges. The aim of this breeding strategy is not to achieve complete resistance to a specific pathogen but, rather, to breed pigs that are able to maintain performance, despite disease status. This strategy avoids putting pressure on individual pathogens to mutate into alternative forms with, potentially, even higher pathogenicity.

Development of this breeding strategy is currently underway at Topigs Norsvin and will be implemented using the same, proven methodology already used to make genetic improvement in other traits included in our breeding goal. Selection for enhanced, overall robustness to disease will improve robustness under various disease challenge scenarios, including exposure to viral pathogens, bacterial pathogens, or a combination. Therefore, this breeding strategy has direct implications for improving performance under field conditions, while also reducing dependency on antibiotic usage. Selection for enhanced, overall robustness to disease is a natural genetic solution for improving pig health and welfare for diseases now, and in the future.

Progress You Can Measure: Driving Results Across Every Stage of Pork Production

Wed, 22 Jan 2025 20:34:11 GMT

At Topigs Norsvin, measurable progress is more than a tagline; it’s a commitment to delivering tangible improvements for pork producers. Through science-driven genetic advancements, we’ve made significant strides in key areas that directly impact productivity, efficiency, and profitability. Here’s how we’re helping producers succeed:

Birth Weight, Litter Size, and Number of Teats: Building Strong Foundations for Productivity

In the last decade, we’ve achieved a +1.3-ounce increase in piglet birth weight. This improvement isn’t just about heavier piglets; it’s about producing healthier, more uniform litters. By reducing birth weight variation, we’ve ensured more predictable and manageable outcomes for producers. These gains, driven by our Piglet Weighing Protocol, also translate to heavier weaning weights and improved finishing pig performance.

We have not only increased piglet birth weight, but we’ve also increased the average litter size by 0.7 piglets total born and 1.1 piglets weaned per litter. Larger litters are crucial for improving the efficiency of pork production, and by focusing on early phase vitality, we’ve ensured that more piglets survive and thrive. This results in higher weaned pig counts, driving greater productivity and profitability for producers.

To support these larger litters, the TN70 sow has realized a +1.4 increase in number of teats over the last decade. Phenotypic trends confirm that the number of teats has increased in line with the number of piglets born alive, ensuring that sows can effectively wean their entire litters. These advancements highlight our commitment to delivering solutions that optimize productivity from the very beginning.

Feed Efficiency and Average Daily Gain: Maximizing Growth and Sustainability

Topigs Norsvin genetics have made significant advancements in total feed efficiency (TFE) and average daily gain (ADG), two critical factors for sustainable pork production. Over the past decade our full program products have improved at similar rates:

TN Tempo × TN70: Improved by 0.77 lbs less feed per lb of live market weight, saving 231.49 lbs. of feed when raising a pig to a market weight of 300 lbs.
TN Duroc × TN70: Improved by 0.71 lbs less feed per lb of live market weight, saving 211.64 lbs. of feed when raising a pig to a market weight of 300 lbs.

These improvements mean producers need less feed to achieve the same market weights, reducing costs and improving sustainability.

Average daily gain advancements further emphasize our commitment to efficient growth. Over the last 10 years genetic trends also show an improvement in average daily gain for our full program products:

TN Duroc × TN70: +0.36 lbs/day.
TN Tempo × TN70: +0.31 lbs/day.

Faster growth rates enable pigs to reach market weight sooner, reducing time and resources required per animal. This translates into lower feed costs, more efficient facility use, and improved cash flow. Producers also benefit from quicker turnover, maximizing production cycles and overall output. By advancing feed efficiency and average daily gain, we’re helping producers achieve sustainable growth without compromising profitability.

Sow Longevity: Robustness That Drives Productivity

Sow longevity has increased by nearly 0.7 parities for the TN70 sow over the last 10 years. This reflects greater robustness and a reduced need for forced culling, allowing producers to focus on true sow performance when making culling decisions.

Our focus on sow longevity involves selecting against the leading causes of sow mortality, including feet/leg issues, and vaginal/uterine prolapse. By ensuring that sows remain productive for more cycles, we’re helping producers reduce replacement rates and maximize the return on investment for each female in their herd.

Delivering Progress You Can Measure

From birth weights to sow longevity to feed efficiency and average daily gains, Topigs Norsvin is delivering measurable improvements that directly benefit pork producers. Our commitment to innovation and genetic excellence ensures that every aspect of production is optimized for success. Ready to see the difference for yourself? Let’s achieve progress you can measure, together.

Building a Bigger Appetite for Pork: Connecting the Dots

Tue, 10 Dec 2024 21:09:59 GMT

Written by Dr. David Newman, Senior VP, Market Growth, National Pork Board

Dr. David Newman joined the National Pork Board as senior vice president for market growth in June 2023. In this role, he leads the Pork Checkoff’s market growth team to drive demand internationally and domestically; he also heads the organization’s health and nutrition research and outreach.

Newman holds a Ph.D. in Meat Science from North Dakota State University and a Bachelor of Science in Animal Sciences from the University of Missouri with a minor in International Agriculture.

Dr. David Newman, Senior VP, Market Growth

(National Pork Board)

As a pork producer, I love the hog industry. I love the day-to-day work, the people, the animals and the products we deliver to consumers. Unfortunately, today’s consumers don’t all have the same love affair with pork that I do.

Pork’s consumer base is shrinking. Younger consumers don’t always have pork top of their minds, so they relegate it to the proverbial back seat. However, the decline in pork’s consumer base is reversible.

New Research, New Tools
Backed by funds from the Pork Checkoff, new research shows the key to reversing this decline in the long term is making pork relevant to younger generations. In other words, we need to win over their hearts and minds by showing them pork is more than an expense in their food budget; it’s a core memory from their favorite meals.

That’s where National Pork Board’s (NPB) Consumer Connect research comes in. This research helps us learn even more about our core consumers, delivering new and updated insights on how different segments prioritize different needs. For example, we know consumers make choices about food based on taste, nutrition and convenience; we can help them develop a preference for pork by showing them that it can meet the needs they find most important in their own lives.

Prioritizing the Right Paths
Proving that pork is the right choice for consumers means we must share the right information with the right people in the right place at the right time.

To do that, we’ve used our Consumer Connect research to detail seven distinct consumer segments. Of those segments, we’ve prioritized four that we believe create a path forward — now and well into the future — for producers and the industry.

The four priority segments — Confident Meat Eaters, Culinary Adventurers, Mindful Choice Makers and Simple Feeders — are the segments that represent the most growth potential. Focusing on what’s important to these consumers, we can improve our positioning, activation and measurement approach in the marketplace.

For example, Confident Meat Eaters account for nearly one in five of fresh pork dollar sales. Pork producers will recognize these consumers because they’re right at home with pork in the kitchen. Since this group is already comfortable preparing and enjoying pork, the best way for us to continue to deliver and grow this segment is by providing products that are easy to prepare and taste great.

On the flip side, Simple Feeders are consumers less interested in the protein on the plate and more interested in checking that day’s meal off the to-do list. And that’s where we can go to work. We know these consumers don’t want to spend extra time in the kitchen, so the most efficient way to reach them is by prioritizing convenience and additional takeout options.

Now What? A New Pork Consumer Campaign is on the Horizon.
Research, tools and strategy are integral to forging a path forward. But the most exciting piece of this process is what’s coming in 2025. It’s time to take our research and turn it into action for the pork industry, protecting our long-term position with consumers.

The Board of Directors at NPB recently approved a bold new marketing plan to address these issues. Working with industry partners, we’re developing our biggest consumer outreach campaign in 25 years! This bold new approach, which is being introduced to the industry in March 2025, is about leveraging our long-term position and building support within the entire pork value chain.

A diverse marketing advisory group was formed from pork processing, state pork associations, board members and pork producers to help NPB serve as a catalyst alongside our allied industry efforts to market pork more successfully. By aligning with the industry in a strategic way, we can go further faster.

We’re using the Consumer Connect research and our growth strategies to reach and engage with the next generation of consumers. I am very excited about our new direction and what we are doing for America’s pig farmers.

To learn more about NPB’s Consumer Connect and take a quiz to find out what type of meat eater you are, visit go.porkcheckoff.org/consumer .

Topigs Norsvin: Partnership-Oriented Approach

Wed, 06 Nov 2024 17:27:18 GMT

At Topigs Norsvin, we believe that progress in swine genetics begins with partnership. Working closely with research partners, industry experts, and producers we can deliver genetic solutions that respond directly to the needs of our customers and the evolving challenges faced by the swine industry. Our partnership-oriented approach supports producers not only with genetics but with a commitment to long-term success.

A Collaborative Approach to Research and Development

Innovation is driven by curiosity and partnership, which is why Topigs Norsvin has built a network of research collaborations with leading universities and research institutes across the globe. We are fostering a constant exchange of knowledge that keeps us at the forefront of genetic improvement. These partnerships enable us to tackle complex challenges in swine production, from enhanced robustness to disease to improved animal welfare.

Through these collaborative efforts, we continue to identify and integrate valuable advancements to our breeding programs. By combining our industry expertise with academic research, Topigs Norsvin is accelerating our ability to respond to emerging trends and to provide innovative solutions that meet the evolving needs of our customers.

Tailored Solutions for our Customers

Topigs Norsvin understands that each producer has a unique set of goals, challenges, and operational requirements. That’s why we prioritize a partnership-oriented approach with our customers, working closely with them to identify solutions that will benefit their operation. Our dedicated team collaborates with producers to determine the best genetic choices for their farm, helping them to achieve optimal performance and efficiency.

True progress happens when we work together. That is why our hands-on approach ensures that Topigs Norsvin is not only providing top-tier genetics but also actively supporting our customers at the slat level to achieve the results they need on their farm.

Shaping a Sustainable Future through Innovation

Topigs Norsvin is committed to creating a sustainable and resilient pig for the swine industry through a balanced approach to genetic improvements and a collaborative mindset. Our focus on balanced breeding, combined with our active research partnerships and working closely with customers, is driving meaningful progress in animal genetics that will benefit generations to come.

What is an SRP and why are they excellent vaccine antigens?

Fri, 01 Nov 2024 22:24:12 GMT

Siderophore Receptor Proteins (SRPs) are doorways on the bacterial cell wall for iron. Pathogenic bacteria must use their SRPs to acquire iron when colonizing the gut wall. Without iron, bacteria cannot infect host tissues.

Ideally, we want to stop pathogenic bacteria before they can cause disease in the gut. When an animal has immunity to SRPs, the iron acquisition process is interrupted by blocking the doorways. Without iron, pathogenic bacteria die before they can cause damage to the gut.

How do you get a custom SRP vaccine? Submit a fecal swab or your current isolates. Through our patented process, we will grow your bacteria and harvest the SRPs to create a custom vaccine.

For more information, contact Vaxxinova at (800)220-2522.

SUPPLEMENTAL CHROMIUM IN KENT NEXGEN® ADVANCED PIG STARTERS

Mon, 21 Oct 2024 20:24:16 GMT

Chromium is a trace mineral that helps improve the cellular uptake of glucose, which provides energy to support biological processes such as growth and immunity. Chromax® branded chromium tripicolinate is a scientifically researched source of organic, highly bioavailable chromium that when fed to sows was found to improve the number of pigs weaned as well as having positive effects on carcass leanness when fed to finishing pigs. Our objective was to evaluate Chromax (to supply 200 ppb added Cr) throughout the starter stages (32 days) on nursery performance and economics. Prior to the 32-day test period, we fed all pigs NexGen® Advanced (NGA) 8-13 pellets for the first 8 days post-weaning. We conducted the following study at the Kent Research Farm with 450 pigs and 48 pens per treatment. The average initial starting weight was 12.7 lbs. The data are shown below:

Table 1. Effect of Chromax in NexGen Advanced (NGA) Starters*
TREATMENTS	NGA	NGA + Chromax
Days 8-15	-	+
Average Daily Gain1, lb	0.59	0.67
Feed/Gain2	1.15	1.04
Cost/lb of Gain2, cents	48.4	43.6
Net Return1, $/Pig @ $0.80/lb Live Weight**	1.45	1.87
Days 8-22
Average Daily Gain3, lb	0.61	0.64
Feed/Gain	1.44	1.39
Cost/Lb of Gain, cents	45.9	44.4
Net Return4, $/Pig @ $0.60/lb Live Weight**	2.99	3.29
1st 8 days post-weaning pigs were fed NGA 8-13 pellets *value of pig weight gain minus feed cost 1Chromax effect (P = 0.001); 2Chromax effect (P < 0.01); 3Chromax effect (P = 0.11); 4Chromax effect (P = 0.09)

During Days 8 to 15 (1st 7 days on grind and mix), we observed highly significant increases in gains (13.8%), and improved feed efficiencies (10%) along with markedly lower cost of gains (4.5 cents) and improved (P = 0.001) net returns of $0.42/pig from supplemental Chromax, as opposed to those pigs on the control diets. While there were not significant improvements from supplemental Chromax during Days 8 to 22, we still had positive trends for improved gains (4.9%) and net returns of $0.30 per pig. We did not find performance improvements from Chromax during the last 18 days of this study.

A follow up study evaluating Chromax in nursery diets was conducted at a contract research site in central Iowa. In this study using 840 pigs (initially 12.4 lb), there were 20 pens containing 21 pigs for each treatment group (Control vs. 200 ppb added Cr from Chromax). In nursery phase 1 (Days 0 to 9) and nursery phase 2 (Days 9 to 20) of the study, pigs fed diets supplemented with Chromax tended to have increased average daily gain. Over the course of the study, significant reductions in mortality and pigs requiring individual treatments were observed in pigs fed Chromax.

Table 2. Effect of Chromax in Nursery Diets
TREATMENTS	CONTROL	CONTROL + CHROMAX
Days 0 to 9	-	+
Average Daily Gain, lb1	0.43	0.45
Average Daily Feed Intake, lb	0.39	0.41
Feed/Gain	0.93	0.91
Cost/lb of Gain, cents	32.9	32.1
Days 9 to 20
Average Daily Gain, lb2	0.78	0.82
Average Daily Feed Intake, lb	0.99	1.02
Feed/Gain	1.27	1.26
Cost/lb of Gain, cents	37.3	36.9
Days 0 to 42
Mortality, %3	2.6	0.7
Individual pig treatments, %4	8.6	2.4
1Chromax effect (P = 0.17); 2Chromax effect (P < 0.18); 3Chromax effect (P = 0.03); 4Chromax effect (P = 0.002)

Summary
Based on the benefits observed in this series of nursery pig studies, such as improved early performance, improved livability, decreased treatments, and favorable economic responses to added Chromax, we have incorporated organic chromium from Chromax into all of our early wean NexGen Advanced starters.

Doubling Genetic Progress Through Global Investments

Thu, 29 Aug 2024 14:48:47 GMT

Topigs Norsvin’s strategic plan to upgrade its breeding structure began eight years ago. This initiative included centralizing nucleus breeding for the Z-line and TN Tempo lines in Canada and constructing Delta Canada and Innova Canada. To further optimize their breeding structure, Topigs Norsvin recently opened Delta Norway, the new test station for testing the Norsvin Landrace and TN Duroc boars.

Delta Canada- A Global Supplier of Genetics

Delta Canada, Topigs Norsvin’s testing station for the Z-line and TN Tempo lines.

The opening of Delta Canada in 2018 was a significant milestone in the expansion of Topigs Norsvin as a global genetics supplier. Situated in a remote area away from other pig production and in proximity to an airport, in enables the export of high-health boars and semen worldwide. With a capacity of 2,600 pigs, the test station can annually test 7,500 young nucleus boars for the Z-line and TN Tempo lines.

Delta Canada conducts centralized testing of young nucleus boars in a consistent environment under the same conditions. The test station is equipped with individual feed intake recording and CT scanning, nursery quarantines, and an AI quarantine. This approach results in more efficient, uniform, and accurate testing. Central testing also facilitates the introduction of new, high-tech phenotyping technologies such as CT scanning.

Innova Canada- Innovations that Set a New Standard

Innova Canada, Topigs Norsvin’s main breeding location for the Z-line, one of the GP used to produce the TN70 sow.

Expansion in the breeding structure of Topigs Norsvin was made possible with the opening of Innova Canada in 2022. The state-of-the-art nucleus aims to increase genetic progress and breeding with future animal welfare legislation in mind. It sets a new standard for incorporating innovative technologies in pig production.

The new nucleus serves as the main breeding location for the Z-line, one of the GP used to produce TN70 sows. It operates using group housing and free-farrowing housing systems. Topigs Norsvin utilizes camera technology to monitor sow and piglet behaviors, collecting data that can help select sows with stronger maternal instincts. This will effectively enhance the genetic progress and mothering ability of the TN70 sow.

Delta Norway- High-Tech Testing and Innovation Center

Delta Norway, Topigs Norsvin’s testing station for the Norsvin Landrace and TN Duroc lines.

Delta Norway, opened in 2024, is twice the size of the old Delta station, allowing for an increased number of boars available for customers. The new testing station can annually test 5,000 young boars from the Norsvin Landrace and TN Duroc lines. The increase in tested boars will reduce genetic lag, providing customers with quicker access to genetic progress.

The new testing station is expected to enhance genetic progress by an additional ten percent, particularly in terms of feed efficiency and daily gain. Large-scale data capture through the extensive use of sensors, cameras, and artificial intelligence will enable continuous tracking of pigs and the recording of fluctuations in their environment and behavior. A new advanced CT scanner will contribute to Topigs Norsvin’s research on robustness, improved welfare, and reducing environmental impact. Additional research will focus on robustness traits for bone and skeleton strength, as well as heart and lung functionality.

These investments in the Topigs Norsvin breeding structure are part of its global investment effort aimed at achieving the goals outlined in the blueprint for the breeding program. Being an innovative company, Topigs Norsvin continues to look to the future, identifying additional investments and technologies to adopt and incorporate into their breeding program.

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