South Dakota Pork Producers' Commitment to Animal Welfare

Animal welfare is a top priority for South Dakota pork producers who recognize that healthy and well-cared-for animals lead to safe and high-quality pork products. As part of their commitment to animal welfare, South Dakota pork producers actively participate in the Pork Quality Assurance Plus (PQA Plus) program. This is a comprehensive, industry-driven program that addresses animal well-being, food safety, and environmental stewardship.

One way South Dakota pork producers ensure the well-being of their animals is through the PQA Plus program. This program provides guidance on proper animal handling, transportation, and euthanasia, as well as information on nutrition, housing, and ventilation for pigs. Producers who successfully complete the program receive certification and continue to demonstrate their commitment to animal welfare and best management practices.

South Dakota producers also adhere to the We Care Ethical Principles. This covers food safety, animal well-being, public health, our people, the environment, and the community. These principles guide responsible pork production and ensure that producers are producing safe, high-quality products in a sustainable and ethical manner.

Moreover, producers are dedicated to continuous education and training to improve their animal welfare practices. Every year, SDSU Extension hosts PQA Plus training sessions at the South Dakota Pork Congress. These sessions provide producers with the latest information and best practices related to animal welfare.

By prioritizing animal welfare, South Dakota pork producers are not only producing high-quality products but also demonstrating their commitment to responsible and sustainable agriculture. This allows consumers to feel good about choosing pork products from South Dakota, knowing that animal welfare is a top priority for their producers.