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.”

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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.