Gaining Trust of a Doubting Public

Posted in: Pork Insight Articles, Production by student on June 26, 2018

Author: Brenda Kossowan

Reference: Prairie Hog Country – February/March 2018

Summary: One topic that was addressed at the Banff Pork Seminar was the concept of Western Canadian pork. Western Canadian pork is produced at an increased efficiency with a reduced environmental impact. The pork in itself is safe and healthy to consume. These aspects of it increase its viability to be a chief protein source. However, this is not the belief of all as others speak of the harm it causes the environment and how it is unhealthy.

Misleading data has presented a distorted image of the environmental implications as well as the role that pork production could play as a protein source as the world population increases.

“The reality for people pushing to end animal agriculture is that livestock play an essential role in making usable protein from marginal land and in providing a reliable source of nutrients for crops” – Frank Mitloehner

In Canada and the United States, genetic progress and improved efficiency continues to shrink the carbon footprint created by the swine industry.

Improved efficiency occurs through:

• improved animal reproduction
• improved vaccination and animal health care
• improve genetics
• and feed more energy in he diet

It is the belief of Crystal Mackay, President of the Centre for Food Integrity, that vital to trust is the transparency of the Canadian Swine Industry. Consumers are misinformed regarding topics such as antibiotics, hormones and pesticide use in the swine industry. In Canada, Canadian hold farmers responsible for animal welfare and the environment.

Gaining Trust of a Doubting Public

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