Illinois Pork Producers Advocate for Industry at State Capitol

May 06, 2024

On Wednesday, Illinois Pork Producers took their message, along with some sizzling bacon, to the state capitol. Led by Jennifer Tirey, executive director of the Illinois Pork Producers Association, the initiative aimed to engage urban legislators who may lack familiarity with hog farming.

Dubbed “Bacon Day for Illinois,” Tirey emphasized the importance of educating legislators about the pork industry. She highlighted the value of personal interactions, often leading to invitations for farm tours, as legislators play a crucial role in shaping industry policies.

To enhance their message, the Pork Producers Association offered complimentary BLT sandwiches, leveraging the universal appeal of bacon to foster dialogue and celebration.

Their efforts were recognized with Illinois Senate Joint Resolution 50, officially declaring May 1st as Bacon Day in the state.

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Video: What Drives Pork Eating Quality - Dr. Ben Bohrer

In this episode of The Swine it Podcast Show Canada, Dr. Ben Bohrer from The Ohio State University discusses what shapes consumer experience with pork. He explains why juiciness and flavor matter, how stunning and chilling affect pork quality, what consumer research reveals about pork chops, and why education and guidance on pork preparation are critical to improving demand. Listen now on all major platforms!

"Consumer education may be one of the pork industry’s biggest opportunities to improve eating experience."

Meet the guest: Dr. Ben Bohrer / ben-bohrer-57b35bb2 is an Associate Professor of Meat Science and Muscle Biology at The Ohio State University and Owner/Operator of Meat Science Solutions, LLC. He earned his Ph.D. in Animal Sciences from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and his M.S. and B.S. from The Ohio State University. His work connects animal science, food science, meat quality, processed meats, and consumer eating experience. Learn more from Dr. Ben Bohrer on The Swine it Podcast Show Canada, available on all major platforms.