The latest on the novel H1N1 flu and the economic forecast for the pork industry will be the main topics of an hour-long program Oct. 12 on RFD-TV.

The program, sponsored by the Pork Checkoff, includes the opportunity for viewers to call in questions.

Long-time farm broadcaster Max Armstrong will serve as host for “RFD-Live: A Conversation About Pork,” which will air at 7 p.m. (Central Daylight Time).

Scheduled guests include: Steve Meyer, agricultural economist and president of Paragon Economics; Chris Novak, chief executive officer, National Pork Board; Paul Sundberg, DVM, vice president of science and technology at the National Pork Board; and Wathina Luthi, an Oklahoma pork producer.

“This is a tremendous opportunity for us to tell our story to both pork producers and to others throughout rural America,” Novak says.

“As we head into the typical flu season, we want consumers to understand that you cannot get the H1N1 flu from eating or handling pork. But we also want viewers to get a better understanding of what is happening within the pork industry. This is a tough time for pork producers. We want to tell consumers what producers already know: That not only is pork safe, nutritious and delicious, it also is an especially good value at your grocery store right now. This is a great time to be buying pork,” Novak says.

“We also look forward to being able to tell producers about all the measures the Pork Checkoff is taking to promote pork this fall. During the RFD-TV program, we will unveil our newest 30-second television commercial,” he adds.

RFD-TV can be viewed on the DISH network at channel 231 and on DirecTV channel 345. Viewers with cable television should consult their local listings guide.

For more information on checkoff-funded programs, call the Pork Checkoff Service Center at (800) 456-7675.