Farms.com Home   News

$9.8 Million In New Funding To Improve Sustainability In Pork Production

Canadian pork is exported to more than 100 countries and it is consumed throughout the world more than any other source of animal protein. It is big business and managing disease in pork populations is one of the most costly and difficult challenges for pork producers.
 
Dr. Michael Dyck of the University of Alberta, Dr. John Harding of the University of Saskatchewan, and Dr. Bob Kemp of PigGen Canada Inc. are leading a team that has received almost $10 million in funding to develop genomics tools to help producers manage disease, reduce costs, and increase product quality.  These genomics tools can be used to select pigs that are more genetically resilient due to increased tolerance of and or resistance to multiple diseases as opposed to resistance to one particular disease. The tools will also permit producers to manage the nutritional content of pig feed to ensure that pigs stay healthier, grow more efficiently, have more successful litters, and reduce the need for antibiotic use in pig production.
 
The research is important at home and abroad because as Genome Alberta's President and CEO Dr. David Baileynotes, "Canadians and our international clients want access to quality pork that has been raised in a healthy, sustainable, environment while still being an affordable source of nutrition for a high protein diet".
 
The involvement of industry partners in this project means that within five years of its completion, the rate of genetic improvement and productivity will have an impact on pig production of more than $137 million, further improving the international competitiveness of the Canadian pork industry.
 
Source : AlbertaPork

Trending Video

IPIC Webinar Series: The Present and Future of Boar Fertility Testing with Dr. Karl Kerns

Video: IPIC Webinar Series: The Present and Future of Boar Fertility Testing with Dr. Karl Kerns

Continuing the Iowa Pork Industry Center Webinar Series, today's webinar features Dr. Karl Kerns discussing the present and future of boar fertility testing.