The National Pork Board’s Pork Quality Assurance Plus (PQA Plus) program has exceeded expectations since its launch in June 2007, says Erik Risa, Education program manager for the National Pork Board.
In the first 15 months of the program, more than 18,000 producers have been trained. The number of advisors has also surpassed goals with more than 800 individuals conducting training sessions.
“We are extremely pleased with the success we’ve seen with the PQA Plus program and the number of producers who have been certified under the new program,” says Risa. “This is just one of the many programs the pork industry has in place that serves to maintain a safe, high-quality supply of pork. All of these programs fall under the ‘We Care’ philosophy that our entire industry is committed to,” he adds.
There was a lot to be positive about in the pork industry the last week of October. I realize it is difficult to be optimistic when you are still losing $25 to $30/head. I also realize that positive news at this point could be as dangerous as it is welcome. But facts are facts, and we must recognize them.
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As I begin this week's column, I"m reminded of two different "flip side" statements that may help characterize the topic at hand. The first is the old Archie Campbell schtick - "That's good - no that’s bad," which I have used before. The second reflects President Truman's frustration with economists' incessant use of the qualifier - "on the other hand" - to introduce the contrary opinion on a given topic. President Truman once demanded in his usual colorful language: "Will someone please find me a *!&%$*?>
