April 2, 2008

US producers in pork quality program reaches 10,000 strong

About 10,000 pork producers are certified in Pork Quality Assurance Plus (PQA Plus) and this reflects the industry's commitment to social responsibility and accountability, according to Pork Checkoff.

The voluntary program took effect in June 2007, aimed at providing high quality and safe pork products for consumers while also ensuring animal welfare. The current number of certified producers is double the original target of 5,000.

Tim Bierman, an Iowa pork producer and member of the National Pork Board who gained his certification in October 2007, said most people are not interested in what he does but whether the pork he produces are safe and that the pigs are humanely cared for. He added that it is important in today's world that he is able to prove that he is doing the right thing.

A certified producer will gain the confidence of packers, processors, restaurants and retailers in the safety of his pork products and the husbandry practises used on his farms.

The National Pork Board acknowledges the importance of earning the trust of clients and consumers, which lead to them encouraging the development of image-building practises for the industry. 

Another practise, the Statement of Ethical Principles for US Pork Producers, was introduced last month at the Pork Industry Forum in St Louis, Missouri.

Such programs, which include the responsible use of antibiotics, shows the industry's commitment to produce safe pork and making welfare a priority, said Bierman. However, the producers have to support the programs to make it meaningful, he added.

"Producers have the tools to satisfy customers' concerns and show consumers that we are accountable for our actions," said Bierman.