The Canadian pork market is experiencing notable changes in hog flows and slaughter rates, particularly in Western Canada. Key players such as Olymel, Donald’s Fine Foods, and Maple Leaf are making strategic moves that are impacting these dynamics.Kevin Grier, who owns Market Analysis and Consulting Inc. of Guelph, ON. said Olymel’s downsizing has reduced
Foreign-trained swine veterinarians working through the Western College of Veterinary Medicine (WCVM) to qualify for veterinary certification in Canada will focus on reducing swine mortality from birth to market. These veterinarians will undertake research projects to improve swine health and well-being as part of their SMART Swine Residency Certification Program training.Dr. John Harding, a
Greetings on a cooler, smoke filled afternoon. The heat wave we have been having has taken a back seat for some much needed moisture. As I am typing this my heart aches for all those affect by the wildfires, makes you appreciate the countless blessings we each have in our lives.This issue is jam
In an industry dominated by intensive, large scale operations, most with a fairly similar genetic base, there are still those who choose a different path in the swine industry.Hogs and Horns Homestead, located at Lavoy, Alta. – about an hour east of Edmonton – is one such operation.They are a smaller operation, raising their
The Animal Agriculture Alliance’s Stakeholder Summit, themed “Ready, Set, Solve! Advancing Animal Agriculture,” united a diverse group of participants to shape the future of animal agriculture collectively. Echoing the spirit of the year of the Olympics, the conference underscored the shared responsibility of all sectors, from farmers and veterinarians to processors and allied industries,
Imagine in the future – perhaps the not so distance future – when humans need an organ transplant they turn to pigs as the donors.It might sound like science fiction, but researchers at the University of Saskatchewan (USask) are working to make it a reality by exploring xenotransplantation – the transplantation of organs from
Keep the faith and stop foolish rules and regulations.
Like other professions, careers, and life choices, farming presents challenges. Yet, farming is also a primary industry that builds communities, feeds the world, and provides an excellent rural living standard.In today’s highly regulated world, government officials decide about things they know little about. Very little thought
Maple Leaf Foods Inc. announced on July 9, 2024, a strategic plan to separate into two independent public companies, each with a focused growth strategy and a solid commitment to sustainability.According to the company, this move unlocks significant shareholder value by enabling specialized entities to pursue their business goals better.Maple Leaf Foods will continue
Bill Alford, General Manager of H@ms Marketing Services, shared his insights on Western Canadian hog farmers’ current trends and challenges. Alford delved into market conditions, regulatory issues, and the impact of recent developments in the industry.Alford said, “Futures prices for hogs you could book earlier this year were at excellent margin levels, and feed
Over the past two years, research suggests the wild pig situation in western Canada is much more controllable than in other regions. Squeal on Pigs Manitoba, which coordinates Manitoba’s efforts to eradicate wild pigs, is working with groups throughout North America.Dr. Wayne Lees, coordinator of Squeal on Pigs Manitoba, reports that data collected during
