Friendly rivalry with Indiana pays off for those in need during holidays. INDIANAPOLIS – What started as a friendly wager between two neighboring states’ pork associations on the outcome of last weekend’s Big 10 football championship game between Ohio State and Indiana University has turned into a big win for everyone in the end — especially for those Hoosier families in need of high-quality protein during the holidays. “While Ohio State fans were disappointed by the game’s final score, our state’s family pig farmers are very pleased to donate $2,000 of pork products to Indiana Pork’s Hoosier Hogs to Homes program,” said Cheryl Day, Ohio Pork Council executive vice president. “During this holiday season, it’s more important than ever to know that those in need are able to provide nutritious protein to their family dinner tables.” This pork donation by the Ohio Pork Council should provide roughly 2,400 servings of pork to families, which is above and beyond the organization’s normal Pork Power program, which has already donated over $15,000 of pork products around its home state from Cincinnati, Cleveland, Columbus and beyond. The previous donations are estimated to have helped provide more than 18,000 servings of pork through Ohio Pork’s food bank partners. “The goal is to help ensure our communities are getting the assistance they need in terms of protein and we’re happy to do our part to make it happen,” said Clark Jordan, an Ohio pig farmer from Eaton, Ohio, who serves on the OPC board of directors. “It’s a great feeling to know that we’re helping out families on both sides of the state line, which definitely helps ease any bruised egos after the big game.” Receiving the donation on behalf of Indiana Pork was pork producer Jackie Bowman Ponder of Greenwood, Indiana, who serves on the Indiana Pork board of directors as well as the National Pork Producers Council’s board of directors. “Indiana pig farmers are passionate about feeding our neighbors,” Ponder said. “We know how great the need is around the holiday season, so we are excited that Ohio wanted to make this friendly bet and the IU Hoosiers came out as the winner!” About the Ohio Pork Council The Ohio Pork Council was established in 1968, beginning with nearly 800 pig farmers dedicated to the task of promoting their own product. Currently, OPC has approximately 2,500 members. Their mission is to serve and benefit all Ohio pork producers. To learn more about the Ohio Pork Council, visit www.OhioPork.org or call 614-882-5887.
Legislation strengthens transparency for consumers and fairness for livestock producers COLUMBUS, Ohio — Ohio pig farmers are applauding the Ohio General Assembly and Gov. Mike DeWine following the passage and signing of House Bill 10 into law, legislation that establishes clear and honest labeling standards for meat and egg products sold in Ohio. “HB 10 is a win for consumers and a win for farmers,” said Cheryl Day, executive vice president of the Ohio Pork Council. “Ohio shoppers deserve to know exactly what they are buying at the grocery store, and this law ensures labels are clear, truthful and not misleading.” HB 10 sets clear definitions for plant-based, cultivated-protein and fabricated-egg products and prohibits companies from using traditional meat and egg terms unless they are accompanied by prominent qualifiers such as “plant-based,” “imitation” or “cell-cultured.” The Ohio Department of Agriculture will oversee enforcement, with civil penalties for violations reaching up to $10,000 per day. “This bill is about transparency, not restriction,” Day said. “Consumers can still choose whatever products they want, but those products must be labeled honestly so families can make informed decisions.” The legislation also limits state-funded schools and higher-education institutions from purchasing lab-grown or misbranded meat and egg products, except for approved research purposes. In addition, HB 10 directs state agencies to pursue federal waivers to prevent cultivated-protein and fabricated-egg products from becoming eligible for SNAP and WIC nutrition programs if approved in the future. “Ohio farmers take pride in producing real, wholesome food,” Day said. “This legislation reinforces fairness in the marketplace by ensuring products raised from livestock are not confused with alternatives that are made in a lab or factory.” Ohio pig farmers expressed appreciation to the bill’s sponsors for their leadership throughout the legislative process. “We are grateful to Rep. Roy Klopfenstein for introducing HB 10 and standing up for Ohio livestock producers from day one,” Day said. “We also thank Sen. Tim Schaffer for championing the bill in the Senate and helping move it across the finish line.” The Ohio Pork Council also thanked Gov. DeWine for signing the bill into law. “We appreciate Gov. DeWine for recognizing the importance of transparency in food labeling and for signing HB 10,” Day said. “His leadership helps protect consumer confidence and supports Ohio agriculture.” HB 10 passed both chambers of the Ohio General Assembly with unanimous bipartisan support, underscoring broad agreement that food labels should be clear, accurate and easy to understand. “For Ohio’s more than 3,400 pork-producing families, this law is an important step forward,” Day said. “It ensures that real pork is clearly identified, respected in the marketplace and trusted by Ohio families who depend on it every day.” About the Ohio Pork Council The Ohio Pork Council was established in 1968, beginning with nearly 800 pig farmers dedicated to the task of promoting their own product. Currently, OPC has approximately 2,500 members. Their mission is to serve and benefit all Ohio pork producers. To learn more about the Ohio Pork Council, visit www.OhioPork.org or call 614-882-5887.
Ohio’s regulation on open-pen sow gestation reflects a carefully considered choice made by Ohioans to place farm-animal care decisions in the hands of veterinarians, animal scientists, and farmers — using science, research, and real-world experience to guide policy. As these requirements take effect, Ohio pig farmers remain committed to providing high-quality animal care rooted in accountability and expert oversight. More than a decade ago, Ohio voters approved the creation of the Ohio Livestock Care Standards Board, establishing the first state-led, science-based system in the country to set livestock housing and care standards. That decision created a unique Ohio approach — one that balances animal well-being, farmer responsibility, and flexibility for animal health needs. The state’s sow-housing standards were developed using this process, with input from accredited veterinarians, animal welfare scientists, and farmers who understand sow behavior and daily care. The resulting regulation supports open-pen gestation systems while allowing farmers and veterinarians to make individualized care decisions when needed for animal health, safety, or recovery. “Ohio pig farmers are proud to operate under a system built on science and expertise,” said Cheryl Day, executive vice president of the Ohio Pork Council. “The group-housing standards taking effect are part of a thoughtful, Ohio-led approach to animal care — one that puts animal health first.” Ohio’s approach to sow housing is built on respect for animals, for farmers, and for state-based decision-making. The standards apply to farms within Ohio and were developed by Ohio veterinarians, animal scientists, and pig farmers who understand local conditions and animal care needs. Unlike one-size-fits-all policies that attempt to extend livestock-housing requirements beyond state lines through market pressure, Ohio’s system focuses on setting science-based standards at home. This grassroots approach doesn’t try to dictate how farmers and their veterinary partners in other states raise their animals. Ohio pig farmers have been preparing for these open-pen gestation requirements for years by investing in facilities and fine-tuning management practices that support sow well-being, all while maintaining the flexibility to address individual animal needs. Proper sow housing is one of many tools farmers use — alongside veterinary guidance and ongoing research — to ensure animals are cared for responsibly. Ohio’s approach to sow housing reflects a thoughtful, science-based commitment to animal care and continuous improvement. The timeline for implementation gave pig farmers the ability to plan, invest, and adapt responsibly—rather than face abrupt changes that could have forced families out of a profession they love, providing nutrient-dense protein for their communities. Guided by veterinarians and animal-care experts, Ohio pig farmers focus on the health and well-being of their animals while working to meet today’s consumer expectations. At the heart of this approach is a simple promise by Ohio’s pig farmers: “ We care about our animals and their wellbeing, we care about food safety, and we certainly care about the people and the environment in the communities where we farm .” About the Ohio Pork Council The Ohio Pork Council was established in 1968, beginning with nearly 800 pig farmers dedicated to the task of promoting their own product. Currently, OPC has approximately 2,500 members. Their mission is to serve and benefit all Ohio pork producers. To learn more about the Ohio Pork Council, visit www.OhioPork.org or call 614-882-5887.
Celebrating the people behind Ohio Pork’s progress and momentum
NEW ALBANY, OHIO — The Ohio Pork Council welcomes two new interns to its team this summer — Sidney Street and Kylie Corbitt. As part of the organization's mission to serve the interests of all pork producers, the interns will assist the OPC staff with communications, youth outreach, events, and other promotional initiatives across the state. Sidney Street , of Prospect, Ohio, joins the Ohio Pork Council this summer as a communications intern. She is currently studying agricultural communications at Oklahoma State University, with a minor in campaigns and lobbying. Street grew up on her family’s Marion County farm where she worked on the row-crop operation and gained valuable experience from her grandparents’ commercial and show pig farm. These early experiences helped shape her passion for agriculture and storytelling, which she now channels through writing, photography, and her graphic design business. “I am so excited to be a part of the OPC team this summer because of the impact the Ohio Pork Council has had on my family and the support they provide to their members,” Street said. “I cannot wait to work alongside such an amazing staff this summer as I get to meet new people in Ohio’s pork industry and help tell their stories to multiple audiences.” Kylie Corbitt , of Springfield, Ohio, will serve as Ohio Pork Council’s OH-PIGS intern for the summer season. She is a freshman at The Ohio State University majoring in agribusiness and applied economics, with minors in agricultural communication and animal science. Corbitt has been actively involved in the swine industry for more than a decade through showing pigs and has gained hands-on experience working with Kimley Show Pigs, where she has assisted with daily animal care, feed sales, and customer engagement. Through these experiences, she developed a strong foundation in animal care, communication, and relationship-building within agriculture. “I’m excited to build additional relationships with pork producers from across Ohio as I help support young people who share the same passion for agriculture that has shaped my life,” Corbitt said. “This role will help me to connect with youth exhibitors and their families across the state, allowing me to gain valuable industry experience.” Regarding the internship experience, Cheryl Day, OPC executive vice president, said, “We value the opportunity to work with young people who are passionate about Ohio’s pork industry and eager to grow professionally. Our internship program provides hands-on experiences and industry exposure that helps prepare students for careers in agriculture.” About Ohio Pork Council The Ohio Pork Council was established in 1968, beginning with nearly 800 pig farmers dedicated to the task of promoting their own product. OPC currently has approximately 2,500 members. The organization’s mission is to serve and benefit all Ohio pork producers. To learn more about the Ohio Pork Council, visit www.OhioPork.org .
NEW ALBANY, Ohio — Ohio's pork industry is growing stronger — and so is the team behind it. The Ohio Pork Council is proud to welcome three dedicated professionals who bring fresh energy and expertise to its mission of serving the state's pork producers. Joining the team are Blake Campbell, producer education director; Kayla Barker, consumer information director; and Michelle Bailey, office manager. Each will contribute in their roles to the organization's core mission of serving and benefiting every Ohio pork producer. “The future of Ohio's pork industry demands a team that is skilled, passionate, and relentless in its pursuit of excellence — and that is exactly what these three professionals bring to this organization,” said Cheryl Day, OPC executive vice president. "Blake, Kayla and Michelle represent exactly the kind of talent and passion we need to take this organization to the next level. Together, they enhance our ability to educate, advocate, and deliver results for every Ohio pork producer.” Blake Campbell of Waterford, Ohio, joins OPC as producer education director. He comes from a fourth-generation, family-owned Berkshire hog farm. Having served most recently as a high school teacher, Campbell has extensive experience in agricultural education and consumer engagement. In addition to helping manage the family farm’s direct-to-consumer business and retail market efforts, he is active in his local community as an EMT and firefighter. “There is nothing more powerful than knowledge — and helping Ohio's pork producers and the public better understand this industry is a mission I take personally,” Campbell said. "I am passionate about advocating for every producer across this state, and I couldn't be more energized to step into this role and get to work." Kayla Barker of Morrow County, Ohio, joins the organization as consumer information director. She grew up on a crop and pig farm and remains actively involved in her family’s show pig operation, Barker Family Farms. A graduate of The Ohio State University, she earned a bachelor’s degree in agriculture with a focus on swine production and a minor in agricultural communications. “Agriculture has always been my foundation, but swine — that is where my heart truly is,” Barker said. "Joining the Ohio Pork Council gives me the rare opportunity to turn that passion into purpose every single day, working alongside an organization that shares my deep commitment to this industry and the producers behind it." Michelle Bailey of Dublin, Ohio, joins OPC as office manager. She brings many years of administrative and organizational experience from the retail and institutional industries space along with a strong appreciation for agriculture and community service. In her role, Bailey will support daily operations and assist the organization in serving Ohio’s pig farmers and industry partners. “It’s meaningful to me because I can directly support the pork industry that helps ensure food security for families, while also giving back to the community,” Bailey said. About Ohio Pork Council The Ohio Pork Council was established in 1968, beginning with nearly 800 pig farmers dedicated to the task of promoting their own product. OPC currently has approximately 2,500 members. The organization’s mission is to serve and benefit all Ohio pork producers. To learn more about the Ohio Pork Council, visit www.OhioPork.org .
Ohio lawmakers pose with their show ring honors after learning what it takes to show a pig at the Ohio State Fair during the Battle for the Bacon event sponsored by the Ohio Pork Council and Ohio Department of Agriculture. (Ohio Pork Council)
Delighted Fairgoers, Celebrity Judges Determine Top Honors
Annual event highlights show-ring mentoring
NEW ALBANY, OHIO – After much political debate, Ohio’s pig farmers are thanking Gov. Mike DeWine for signing the $90.5 billion 2026-27 operating budget into law earlier this week as it will help to protect areas of vital importance to keep the state’s number one industry—agriculture—including key provisions critical to the future of the pork industry. “Although the governor did veto some budget items, the priorities of Ohio’s family pig farmers were all passed into law, allowing our members to rest a little easier knowing that their current and future livelihoods are better protected going forward,” said Cheryl Day, executive vice president of the Ohio Pork Council. “This was a hard-fought win to ensure that Ohio’s swine herd was better protected from foreign animal disease and also ensuring data privacy for our farms who use the Animal Disease Diagnostic Laboratory.” Specifically, the biennial budget approved dedicates funding for the Animal Disease Diagnostic Laboratory, keeping the state’s diagnostic labs ready for emerging threats. In addition, $10 million is earmarked to combat the rural veterinary shortage in Ohio, and to establish an emerging infectious disease center. Finally, the H2Ohio water quality program will receive funding to allow for ongoing environmental stewardship needs. “We truly appreciate Governor DeWine and Ohio’s legislative leaders for recognizing the vital role pork producers play in our state’s economy, food system, and rural communities,” Day said. “Your support ensures a stronger, safer, and more resilient future for Ohio agriculture.”