World Pork Expo kicks off in Iowa
Taking place at the Iowa State Fairgrounds, the Expo claims to be the world’s largest pork-specific trade show. Presented by the US association the National Pork Producers Council (NPPC), it features around 375 commercial exhibits, as well as discussions on the latest issues affecting the sector.
A series of business seminars will take place on the Wednesday and Thursday of the show, with topics covering everything from manure handling and swine health to sow-herd management and exports.
Tom Vilsack, US Secretary of Agriculture, will today (5 June) headline the Expo’s Strategic Investment Program (SIP) luncheon, and will share insights on the current Porcine Epidemic Diarrhea virus (PEDv), pork exports and other issues affecting pork production.
On a lighter note, the NPPC, Hog Slat and Vinny’s BBQ will be attempting to set another record for the world’s largest pork burger – a record previously set at the 2012 World Pork Expo.
Howard Hill, president of the NPPC and Iowa Pork Producer, said: "World Pork Expo is a showcase of pork production; it’s where producers get together and share ideas. It offers a great opportunity for pork producers to get a crash course in what’s new."
Hill adds: "World Pork Expo is not just for primary owners of pork operations. Everyone should encourage their staff to attend. Whether they are breeding technicians, farm managers, supervisors or people who work in the environmental area — there’s a lot of information at Expo for anyone who works in pork production."
