MFBF Identifies Needs Of Livestock Producers For Slaughter, Meat Processing

Jul 27, 2021

By Katelyn Parsons

The Massachusetts Farm Bureau Federation (MFBF) is pleased to release the results from its’ survey to assess the needs of livestock producers for slaughter and meat processing. To view a PDF copy of the results, please click here.

The results are from 144 livestock producers, 89 of whom finished the entire survey. While the organization wished more producers had completed the survey, due to time constraints and summer being busy season, it is pleased with the responses to this survey.

“One of the key takeaways from the survey was that our producers have difficulty getting appointments at their local slaughterhouses due to such high demand,” said MFBF President Mark Amato. “Producers need facilities that are near their farms and that can schedule timely appointments. Survey comments even discussed the need to schedule appointments before livestock is born and the difficulties that creates.”

Click here to see more...

Video: PRRS Eradication Strategies - Dr. DeBuse and Dr. Tousignant

In this episode of The Swine it Podcast Show, Dr. Neil DeBuse from Kalmbach Feeds and Dr. Steve Tousignant from Vaxxinova US discuss PRRS management strategies, recombination risks, whole genome sequencing, and the role of autogenous immunization programs in swine systems. They highlight practical approaches to improving immunity, reducing outbreaks, and advancing PRRS control across production systems. Listen now on all major platforms!

"Being PRRS negative sooner is a real key for eradication because every additional positive week increases production losses and viral exposure risks." - Dr. Neil DeBuse

Meet the guest: Dr. Neil DeBuse is a veterinarian at Kalmbach Feeds with more than 30 years of experience in swine health and production. His work focuses on PRRS control, biosecurity, immunity, and improving production stability across commercial swine systems in the United States and internationally.

Dr. Steve Tousignant is Director of the Swine Business Unit and Technical Services Veterinarian at Vaxxinova US, with a DVM and PhD from the University of Minnesota. His experience combines epidemiology, technical services, and practical immunization strategies designed to support consistent herd performance and long-term production stability. Don’t miss the chance to be part of the Swine Inner Circle!