One Health: supporting market demand for pork – Swineweb.com – complete pig news, markets, commentary and technical information

We celebrate Health Day

As we join the global celebration of One Health Day on November 3, I am reminded of how important it is to recognize the interconnectedness of human, animal and environmental health.

Contribution to research and education

In my role as Director of Producers and Public Health at the National Pork Board (NPB), I am proud to contribute to the research and education initiatives that embody We Care ^{Ethical principles.}

These principles, which include food safety, animal welfare, our people, public health, environment and community, form the cornerstone of our work. They help us meet growing market demand for pork, both domestically and internationally, while also enabling us to incorporate a One Health approach into our practices.

One Healths’ role in meeting market demand

The One Health approach is key to meeting growing market demand for pork. As consumers become more aware of the food they eat, there is an increasing focus on food safety, animal welfare and environmental sustainability.

Pork producers meet these requirements by adhering to the We Care Ethical Principles. Every day, farmers strive to produce safe, sustainable and nutritious pork products, ensuring pig health and welfare are optimized while being responsible stewards of the environment, good employers and caring neighbors.

PQA Plus Certification Program: One Health Approach.

These key, overlapping principles are evident in pork quality assurance ^{Certification Program Plus (PQA Plus) that trains caregivers in the good production practices necessary to produce pork in an ethically responsible “One Health” way.}

The program highlights the importance of not only focusing on healthy animals, but also considering the impact on the environment, community well-being and the health of those involved. By adapting to a One Health approach, farmers can balance all of these areas simultaneously, ensuring a holistic approach to pork production.

My commitment to One Health

My work at NPB is a testament to my commitment to aligning the swine industry with a One Health approach. Through our research and education initiatives, we strive to create a sustainable and prosperous future for the swine industry while meeting the growing demands of consumers at home and abroad.

Let’s celebrate One Health Day by recognizing the importance of this interconnected approach and working together to protect the health and well-being of all living things on our shared planet.

To learn more about how NPB supports One Health in the swine industry, check out this AP-sponsored story featuring an interview with me.