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Episode 15

Managing pig health – Iowa farmers take a responsible approach

Featured in This Episode

Dr. Heather Fowler

National Pork Board

Dr. Locke Karriker

Iowa State University

Mike Paustian

Pork Producer

Welcome to Episode 15 of the ChopTalk podcast, which delves into the complex topic of antibiotic use in pig farming, highlighting its importance for both animal welfare and public health. Dr. Heather Fowler with the National Pork Board, Dr. Locke Karriker from Iowa State University, and farmer Mike Paustian discuss the responsible approach farmers take to pig health and the use of antibiotics.

Episode Highlight Dr. Heather Fowler

Pig farmers are committed to the well-being of their animals and collaborate with veterinarians to ensure the responsible use of antibiotics. Consumers can be assured that pork products in grocery stores are free from antibiotics, as farmers adhere to strict regulations and monitoring to prevent residues in the final product.

Episode Highlight Dr. Heather Fowler

Pig farmers prioritize preventative measures, such as biosecurity protocols and herd health plans developed with veterinarians, to minimize the need for antibiotics on the farm. When antibiotics are necessary, it's based on scientific diagnosis and veterinary expertise, aiming to reduce antimicrobial resistance and ensure the well-being of both pigs and humans.

Episode Highlight Dr. Locke Karriker

Recent regulatory changes have significantly altered antimicrobial usage on farms, with strict guidelines mandating veterinary oversight for their prescription and administration. These measures aim to ensure judicious and responsible antimicrobial use, with veterinarians playing an important role in safeguarding animal welfare and product safety.

Episode Highlight Mike Paustian

Veterinarians help farmers manage pig health on their farms. Veterinarians guide appropriate care based on individual animal health needs, ensuring effective treatment while minimizing unnecessary antibiotic usage.

Listen to the ChopTalk Podcast on your favorite podcast app.

About the ChopTalk Podcast

Iowans love their bacon, yet not everyone has a direct connection to pig farming. Listen to the ChopTalk podcast, where the Iowa Pork Producers Association and host Laurie Johns connect you to Iowa pig farmers. Meet the people behind the pork, hear about the challenges they face, how they give back to their communities and the impact on us all.