News

Positive outlook for pork industry, despite challenges

The president of the Illinois Pork Producers Association says morale is high in the industry despite some challenges this spring.

Katie Brown, who’s a 5^th generation hog farmer in Christian County, tells Brownfield, “Our number one issue that we’re seeing is some disease pressure with PRRS or porcine respiratory virus. So, we’re trying to make sure that our herds stay healthy, and I think with warmer weather, we’re going to see some of that taper off.”

She says improving biosecurity and maintaining production are top of mind as the industry works to meet the growing demand for pork.

“The price of pork is very intriguing and valuable to the consumer, so we’ve definitely had a tick up in demand.”  She says, “It’s been kind of a perfect storm. Overall, the industry is looking promising.”

Brown says recent rallies in the commodity markets may impact some producers feed budgets, but overall, the profitability picture for pork is positive.

AUDIO: Katie Brown – Illinois Pork Producers