SNAP Funding Standoff Puts Pork Demand at Risk

Nov 03, 2025

Why a Washington Budget Fight Matters All the Way Back to the Barn

As Congress continues its budget standoff, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) is now days away from a lapse in funding. If nothing changes, the program that helps more than 40 million Americans buy groceries will temporarily shut down on November 1 — and that has direct consequences for the U.S. pork industry.

At first glance, food-assistance policy may seem far from the barn, the feed mill, or the packing line. But SNAP isn’t a side program — it is one of the biggest demand drivers in the U.S. protein economy. When those dollars disappear, even briefly, the ripple effect is fast and measurable: consumers pull back, retailers slow their orders, cold storage grows, and live-hog values eventually feel the drag.

Source : Swine web

Video: Five Confirmed New World Screwworm Cases Raise Alarm for Livestock and Pet Owners

Pat Hoffmann, Swine Technical Consultant at Elanco Animal Health tells us about the impact of New World Screwworm. The emergence of New World screwworm in the U.S. creates a threat for veterinarians, livestock producers and pet owners that has not been seen north of the Florida Keys since the fly was eradicated from the United States more than 50 years ago. New World screwworm (Cochliomyia hominivorax) larvae feed on living tissue and can affect a wide range of warm-blooded animals, including livestock, companion animals, wildlife, and even humans.
“New World screwworm could have a devastating impact on animal health, welfare, and producer livelihoods,” said Jeff Simmons, President and CEO, Elanco Animal Health. “We want to thank the FDA, EPA and USDA, for all their work to prepare for this threat. We’re committed to supporting our customers during this challenging time by delivering innovation, scientific expertise, and available resources to help treat New World screwworm and support the health and well-being of animals.”
Elanco is working alongside the U.S. animal health industry to help them fight against this parasite, offering a portfolio of options for pets and livestock that can help treat New World screwworm larvae infestations.