“The National Pork Board and America’s pork producers take their ethical responsibility for the proper care of pigs seriously and will not tolerate any mistreatment of animals.”

That statement from California pork producer and National Pork Board President Steve Weaver comes in response to an incident of alleged animal abuse at an Iowa hog farm.

A video placed on the Internet by the People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) reportedly depicts the misconduct of an employee charged with the care of animals at a hog facility at Bayard, IA.

The owners of the hog farm (a supplier Hormel Foods) said they are taking immediate steps to correct the problems uncovered. Representatives of the owners met this morning with PETA staff members to discuss specific corrective steps.

“U.S. pork producers are committed to care for animals in a way that protects their well-being,” adds Weaver. “The industry provides education and training programs – including Pork Quality Assurance Plus and the Transport Quality Assurance Program – to ensure that all persons involved in the care of pigs understand their ethical responsibility and possess the skills necessary to provide good care.”