Pork Quality Assurance Advisor Training To Strengthen Farm Standards

By Andi Anderson

The Iowa Pork Industry Center at Iowa State University has announced an online Pork Quality Assurance Plus advisor certification training scheduled for July 7. This program is designed to help qualified individuals gain certification and support better practices in pork production.

The PQA Plus program is widely recognized for meeting high international standards in the pork industry.

It focuses on several important areas such as food safety, animal well-being, environmental responsibility, worker safety, and public health. This program also promotes responsible farming practices that benefit both producers and communities.

Individuals who complete the training and become certified advisors will play an important role in the industry. They will be able to guide pork producers and their workers through the PQA Plus certification process. Advisors can also conduct on-farm site assessments to ensure farms follow proper standards and improve their operations.

To apply for the advisor training, candidates must meet certain eligibility requirements. These include being a veterinarian, extension specialist, or agricultural educator who works with adult education or production training. Interested individuals must submit their applications through the official website before the deadline of June 30.

The training session on July 7 will begin at 9 a.m. and will last for approximately six hours. This online session is open to both new applicants and those who want to renew their certification. Participants will receive detailed guidance and training materials through the online platform after their applications are approved.

The cost of attending the session is $100 per participant. In addition to certification, attendees can earn five veterinary continuing education units, which are useful for professional development.

Another opportunity to attend the training will be available later in the year. A second online certification session is planned for October 5, with the application deadline set for September 28.

Photo Credit: istock-srdjan-stepic