Walking in the wellies of levy payers

Last week, Pork Sector Chair Glen Nimmo and a group of staff from across AHDB took advantage of an opportunity to ‘walk the line’ and get a better understanding of the pork sector and the work of pig producers and processors.

The event involved a trip to a pig farm followed by a tour of a processing plant, providing a comprehensive view of the journey from farm to fork. It was a chance to deepen the understanding of non-field-based staff about the pork production process.

The visit also highlighted advancements in farming techniques and demonstrated the sector's commitment to sustainability and animal welfare.

The team started out at a modern, straw-based pig farm designed to ensure the comfort and health of the animals. They learned about the meticulous care that goes into raising pigs, from stockperson training and tailored nutrition plans to veterinary oversight.

The second leg of the trip took them to a processing plant, where they witnessed the rigorous standards upheld at each stage of the supply chain.

The team were all enthusiastic about the experience, saying they gained valuable insights into how high-quality British pork products are prepared, packaged and distributed to meet consumer expectations.

We thank the team at Sofina Foods, who hosted the visit, including Mark Haighton, Helen Clarke-Ferridge, Emma Hatfield and Chris Weighell.

The AHDB team returned with a greatly enhanced appreciation for the hard work and innovation that underpin pork production and some ideas to share with producers and consumers alike.