Farms.com Home   News

Challenges explored at international dairy summit

“Innovation” and “sustainability” were the two most used words after “dairy” and “cows” at the International Dairy Federation World Dairy Summit in Chicago.

More than 1,100 dairy farmers, processors, policymakers and industry leaders from 50 countries celebrated the World Dairy Federation’s 120th birthday at the summit Oct. 15-20.

On opening day, U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack said that “climate concerns and the impact on our ability to produce” are among the things that keep him up at night. Consumers are willing to invest in sustainable practices, but they need to know what they are, he said.

Click here to see more...

Trending Video

CEOs of the Industry: John McIntire, Partner at Pike Pig Systems

Video: CEOs of the Industry: John McIntire, Partner at Pike Pig Systems

CEOs of the Industry, Jim sits down with John McIntire, Partner at Pike Pig Systems, one of the most quietly impressive 26,000-sow operations in the U.S. John shares how he grew from operator to partner, how Pike built a people-first culture with long-tenured managers, and why they’re committed to weaning bigger, stronger pigs at 25+ days.

John breaks down how Pike stays efficient in a tough economic environment, the power of their shareholder-owned farm model, and how their work with PIC and a 240-head boar facility drives genetics and health outcomes. He also opens up about the innovations Pike adopts — and how they decide what’s truly valuable versus industry hype.

From Prop 12 and labor challenges to trade, consumer expectations, and sustainability, John chooses a hot-button issue and shares how Pike is preparing for the future. The episode closes with a rapid-fire “Fast Five” — mindset, leadership, daily habits, and three words that define Pike Pig Systems in 2025.

If you want a look inside a people-driven, purpose-driven, quietly elite pork system, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.