2007 World Pork Expo New Product Tour

Jul 15, 2007 12:00 PM, By Lora Berg

The National Hog Farmer New Product Review Panel felt exhibitors at the 2007 World Pork Expo had added some good features to existing products, in addition to coming up with practical ways to address challenges producers may face in the future.

“We saw some new twists and improvements in existing products, in addition to taking a look at some timely products offered for the pork industry to address changes that may be coming about,” stated Jeff Feder, a veterinarian with Swine Vet Center, P.A., St. Peter, MN. Swine Vet Center focuses on swine health in addition to helping producer clients manage their swine operations, and conducts pork production research.

Jay Harmon, Iowa State University Extension agricultural engineer added, “Many companies are introducing products which address timely industry issues, such as changes in sow housing or improvements in facility management. These ranged from very simple, to relatively complex, but these should prove helpful to many producers.”

Marcia Shannon, University of Missouri Extension swine nutrition specialist, related, “Companies offered some good ideas to help producers to be more efficient.”

Dave Uttecht, a 4,700-sow, farrow-to-finish and farrow-to-feeder pig producer from Alpena, SD, noted, “We looked at products that would benefit everyone from very small to very large producers and for both independent producers and integrators. World Pork Expo has something for everybody, which is why it is such a good show to attend.”

The panel looked at new products that had been introduced to the industry within the last year. Following are more details about the products the panel found “most promising.” Products are not ranked in any particular order.