By Andi Anderson
The Department of Agriculture (USDA) has declared its intention to procure an extra 33.5 million pounds of pork, valued at more than $78.6 million, using funds from its Commodity Credit Corporation. This initiative is geared towards bolstering diverse food nutrition and assistance programs nationwide, while also supporting pork producers.
Earlier this year, USDA initiated a similar move by purchasing $25 million worth of pork under Section 32 of the Agricultural Adjustment Act of 1935, utilizing funds appropriated annually from U.S. customs receipts. This proactive measure enables the USDA to make commodity purchases, entitlement purchases, and provide disaster assistance, contributing to the stability of the agricultural sector.
The National Pork Producers Council (NPPC) has lauded USDA's latest pork purchase, emphasizing the importance of such initiatives in supporting U.S. pork producers during challenging market conditions. Over the past 18 months, the pork industry has grappled with economic hardships, with producers experiencing losses averaging $30 to $60 per hog marketed in 2023.
According to NPPC, these pork purchases serve as a lifeline for hog and wholesale pork markets, providing much-needed support amidst turbulent economic conditions. Furthermore, the procurement ensures the availability of affordable, nutritious pork products for USDA recipient programs, benefiting both producers and consumers alike.
NPPC remains committed to collaborating with USDA to identify additional avenues for supporting U.S. pork producers and addressing market challenges. Through collective efforts and strategic interventions, stakeholders endeavor to foster resilience and stability within the pork industry, safeguarding the livelihoods of producers and ensuring continued access to high-quality pork products for consumers.
As USDA continues to prioritize initiatives aimed at bolstering agricultural sectors and supporting nutrition programs, the pork industry looks forward to sustained collaboration and proactive measures that uphold the industry's vitality and contribute to the well-being of communities across the nation.
Photo Credit: USDA
Categories: Iowa, Government & Policy, Livestock, Hogs