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Study Shows Calls To Reduce 'Intensive' Livestock Farming Practices To Mitigate EID Risk May Be Premature

Study Shows Calls To Reduce 'Intensive' Livestock Farming Practices To Mitigate EID Risk May Be Premature

A team of researchers from the University of Cambridge and the University of Leeds has found evidence that we currently lack adequate information to reach a robust view of the relationship between contrasting livestock systems and emerging infectious disease (EID) risk. In their paper published in the journal Royal Society Open Science, the group describes their review of livestock production methods and the likelihood of EIDs.

Over the past few decades, as epidemics and a major pandemic have threatened the health and lives of millions of people, some have pointed the finger at  as a potential source of pandemics of zoonotic origin, and several studies have backed up such fears. As part of the debate, researchers have suggested that some modern  farming practices may be leading to a bigger risk of diseases transmitted from animals to humans. More specifically, some have suggested that intensive livestock farming increases the risk of a pandemic because of the high animal populations, overall poor heath, lowered  and a lowering of .

But missing from the debate, say the researchers of this new study, is actual evidence that high-intensity livestock farming poses more of a risk. To test the idea, the researchers reviewed the evidence of links between livestock production and the development of EIDs for each of the possible factors involved in both high- and low-intensity livestock farming.

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CEOs of the Industry – Rob Brenneman, CEO of Brenneman Pork

Video: CEOs of the Industry – Rob Brenneman, CEO of Brenneman Pork

“From Pork Production to Performance Nutrition: A Candid Conversation with One of the Industry’s Most Unconventional Thinkers”

CEOs of the Industry, we sit down with Rob Brenneman, the visionary behind Brenneman Pork, for an unfiltered, in-depth conversation on leadership, survivability, nutrition, and the future of pig farming.

Rob shares how a deep-rooted commitment to **health—both animal and personal—**drives his philosophy and decision-making. From reshaping pork nutrition and advocating for the return of well-marbled, flavorful pork to confronting the ongoing battle with PRRS and other health threats, Rob’s insights reflect decades of hands-on experience and bold innovation.

Key themes include: Nutrition Reimagined: Why the industry went off course—and how Brenneman Pork is leading change by prioritizing gut health, fat quality, and real performance.

Health & Survivability: Rob’s take on biosecurity, disease management, and the systems and protocols that protect both pigs and profitability.

Well-Marbled Pork as Premium Protein: The science, consumer insights, and culinary feedback behind Rob’s mission to reintroduce pork as a premium, flavorful protein.

Sustainability & Farm Culture: How Brenneman Pork balances environmental responsibility with day-to-day positivity and resilience.

Generational Impact: Strategies to attract, inspire, and retain the next wave of pork producers with pride and purpose.

Plus, a fast-paced finale where Rob shares his top pork pick, leadership lessons, and what he’d change overnight in the industry.

Whether you're a producer, nutritionist, policymaker, or future leader, this episode offers a masterclass in where pork production is headed—and how visionaries like Rob are shaping it.