decrease font size
increase font size
change type face
bookmark this page
email this page
print this page

ThePigSite Latest News

Search ThePigSite:
Section:

Use the above box to search this section or the whole site
Thursday, March 22, 2007
Print This Page

Bill requires hog purchases from independent producers

IOWA - Meatpackers will have to purchase more of their hogs from independent family farmers under legislation approved by the Iowa Senate on Tuesday afternoon. Big meatpackers now buy many of their hogs on contract from farmers, and lock in the price without a sale at auction. The bill requires them to purchase at least 25-percent of their hogs from independent farmers.

Senator Jack Kibbie, a Democrat from Emmetsburg, urged the Senate to pass the bill. "I would ask the senate to think again about casting a vote for the small independent pork producers of this state, the ones that keep our fairs alive, our 4-H and our future farmers."

Kibbie said the market for independent hog producers has almost disappeared. He describes signs at packers' unloading docks that say "contract hogs only." Kibbie says we must provide a market for the independent producer. Supporters argued consumers would get a better price on meat if fewer hogs were produced on contract for the big packing companies.

To continue reading this article please click here

Source: RADIO IOWA



Who's Online?

Sunday 8th November

Search Site