February 20, 2026

 

US pork council welcomes proposed rule concerning line speed regulations for pork processing

 

 

The National Pork Producers Council in the United States has welcomed the US Department of Agriculture's proposed rule to update the New Swine Inspection System's (NSIS) line speed regulations to increase efficiency at pork processing plants.

 

The proposal aims to remove maximum line speed limits for establishments operating under NSIS. Participating establishments will be allowed to set their own line speeds based on their demonstrated ability to maintain process controls and food safety, rather than adhering to a strict maximum speed limit.

 

"Greater efficiency of increased line speeds provides financial security and more stability for pork producers," said NPPC president Duane Stateler. "Without the NSIS programme, some pork producers could have incurred an additional loss of nearly $10 a head."

 

Since 2019, NPPC has advocated for increased line speeds.

 

In November 2021, the Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) permitted increased line speeds at six pork packing plants while simultaneously gathering data to evaluate potential worker impacts.

 

In November 2023, the FSIS extended the trials for an additional 90 days.

 

In February 2024, the FSIS again extended the trials through January 15, 2025. In April 2024, USDA Deputy Under Secretary for Food Safety Sandra Eskin discussed the pilot programme with producers at NPPC's legislative action conference.

 

In June 2024, US Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry Ranking Member John Boozman introduced his Farm Bill framework, making permanent the programme, among several NPPC priorities.

 

In January 2025, the FSIS released the results of a months-long study at six plants, concluding that "line speeds were not determined to be the leading factor in worker musculoskeletal disorder (MSD) risk at these plants."

 

In March 2025, the US Department of Agriculture announced plans to make permanent the NSIS increased line speed programme.

 

NPPC will continue to work with FSIS to ensure greater efficiency and food safety within pork processing plants.

 

- NPPC