Iowa Pork Industry
Iowa Pork Facts Iowa #1 pork producing state in U.S. Around 30 million hogs are raised annually Approximately 1/3 of total U.S. production 6,266 pork producing farms in Iowa Iowa #1 pork exporting state
Iowa Pork Facts Approximately 19 million hogs are being raised on family farms at any one time. As of June 1, 2015, there were 21 million hogs on Iowa family farms.
Iowa Pork Facts More than 40,000 jobs are directly related to daily production.
Iowa Pork Facts Production alone contributes nearly $7.5 billion annually to the Iowa economy.
Iowa Pork Facts Total value- added contributions by hog farmers to the state is $4 billion annually.
Iowa #1 pork exporting state Abundant feed supply 25% corn & 39% soybeans fed to pigs Iowa lead the nation in pork exports in 2012 with more than $1.4 billion in sales.
Iowa #1 pork exporting state The top international customers for Iowa pork are Japan, Canada and Mexico.
Iowa’s Pork Producers... 94% of Iowa’s farms are family farms
Pork production has changed It’s not what it used to be!
50 Years of Change Diversified farms: A little of everything --- pigs, cows, sheep, etc … Smaller farms Most farms were owner / operator farms Open lots/pastures Pigs were fat Public … some connection with agriculture Farms are highly specialized with their production Larger & fewer farms Numerous farm systems Confinement Pigs are lean Public … little connection with agriculture
Even with all these changes … Our ethical principles continue to be… Protecting animal well-being Producing safe food and protecting public health Safeguarding natural resources Supporting our communities and being good neighbors
Animal care is first and foremost …
Ensuring pork quality & safety... a top priority
Ensuring Food Safety … Pork producers establish a herd health plan. Work closely with a veterinarian. Only specific, targeted use of antibiotics. Maintain medication records. Track all treated animals.
Caring for the Environment … using practices to protect Iowa’s rivers, lakes & streams
Being good neighbors
Pork Production is Good for Iowa!