Third USDA action week targets African swine fever

Sep 27, 2023

Gearing up for a proactive stance against African Swine Fever (ASF), the USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) is hosting its impactful third annual ASF Action Week from October 2 - 6, 2023. Swine producers, farmers, and pig enthusiasts across the U.S. are invited to come aboard and delve into the protective measures against ASF.

ASF may be a stranger to the U.S., but its presence in the Dominican Republic and Haiti in 2021 has necessitated heightened vigilance. Dr. Rosemary Sifford of APHIS warns of the severe ramifications – a 10-year, $75 billion struggle if ASF infiltrates the U.S.

In response, APHIS is fostering collaborations with states and industry, fortifying safeguards, and emphasizing prevention as the cornerstone of swine protection. A series of informative sessions, insights from industry partners, and the “I Protect Pigs” photo contest will mark the week, all accessible through social media and the official website.

Free resources, including engaging videos and guides, are available for participants to enhance their knowledge and preparedness. Join the collective effort, be part of the conversations, and contribute to the safeguarding of U.S. swine herds essential for both domestic and international food supply.

Source : wisconsinagconnection

Video: What Does 20 MILLION Hogs a Year Look Like?

?? The Multi-Plant System Processing 20 Million Hogs Annually in the Midwest JBS USA operates multiple large-scale pork processing facilities across the Midwest, including major plants in Iowa, Minnesota, and Indiana. Combined, these facilities have the capacity to process approximately 20 million hogs annually.

Each plant operates high-speed automated slaughter systems capable of processing up to 20,000 head per day, followed by fabrication lines that break carcasses into primals, sub-primals, and case-ready retail products.

Hog procurement is coordinated through electronic marketing platforms that connect regional contract finishing operations and independent producers to plant demand schedules. This digital procurement system allows for steady supply flow and scheduling efficiency across multiple facilities.

Processing plants incorporate comprehensive food safety systems, including pathogen intervention technologies, rapid chilling processes, and integrated cold-chain management. USDA inspection is embedded throughout the harvest and fabrication stages to ensure regulatory compliance and product integrity. Finished pork products — from bulk primals to retail-ready packaged cuts — are distributed through coordinated logistics networks serving domestic and export markets.