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Meet the 2023 Hog Farmer Appreciation Celebration Chefs

Niman Ranch’s 25th Hog Farmer Appreciation Celebration took place in Des Moines, Iowa August 25-27, 2023. This annual celebration brings together the Niman Ranch community—chefs, distributors, partners and friends— to recount stories, learn and share incredible meals, all featuring Niman Ranch’s award-winning pork prepared by some of the country’s most celebrated chefs.

It’s no small task to prepare a multi-course meal for 600 guests. So why do chefs join us each year in Iowa to cook at this event?

Chef Andrew Hunter, Niman Ranch’s executive chef and the lead organizer of the 600-person gala dinner, explains that chefs are always eager to participate in this event because they love the Niman Ranch product, respect how Niman Ranch operates with integrity and credibility and, most important, appreciate the farmers. The dinner gives chefs a chance to cook for and thank the farmers directly.

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Genetics Behind Swine Resilience - Dr. Jenelle Dunkelberger

Video: Genetics Behind Swine Resilience - Dr. Jenelle Dunkelberger


In this episode of The Swine it Podcast Show Canada, Dr. Jenelle Dunkelberger, geneticist at Topigs Norsvin, explains how genetics can improve disease resilience in pigs. She explores how resilience differs from resistance, the role of genetic variation, and how breeding strategies can enhance health and performance under disease pressure. Dr. Dunkelberger also covers practical applications and future implications for swine production. Listen now on all major platforms!

"Controlled experimental trials confirm that differences in mortality and performance under disease pressure are linked to genetic background, even when environmental conditions remain consistent."

Meet the guest: Dr. Jenelle Dunkelberger / jenelle-dunkelberger-9200ab86 is a geneticist at Topigs Norsvin, where she leads the Global Health and Behavior Research Platform. She earned her PhD from Iowa State University, focusing on host genetics and disease response in pigs. Her work centers on improving swine health and performance through genetic selection for resilience and behavior traits.