High volumes of imported pork flood NZ
Over 40,000 metric tons (MT) of overseas pork from 22 countries were imported into New Zealand in 2023.
New welfare standards came into effect in pig farming yesterday, meaning sows and gilts must not be confined in stalls during pregnancy.
A gilt is a young female, generally under 12 months. The use of mating stalls for service is permitted, for no longer than one week. New Zealand is one of very few countries in the world operating to this standard.
NZPork has put in place a traceability system so that consumers can be sure the pork they are purchasing meets these requirements.
Compliance with the Code of Welfare is a requirement for PigCare accreditation, and only pork from PigCare accredited farms is eligible for labelling as 100% New Zealand pork (or ham or bacon). This is confirmed by traceability of pork from PigCare accredited farm to wholesaler, and through the supply chain to finished labelled product.
By purchasing 100% New Zealand pork (or ham or bacon) PigCare accredited, consumers can be sure they are purchasing pork from animals born in New Zealand and raised according to New Zealand's animal welfare requirements.
Imported pork, ham and bacon does not have to meet these requirements nor is it PigCare accredited.
For more information on PigCare and animal welfare check out http://www.nzpork.co.nz/pigcare-and-animal-welfare
The country’s 4200 commercial fruit and vegetable growers will vote from May 14 on a new HortNZ levy.
Meat processor Alliance Group is asking farmer shareholders to inject more capital in order to remain a 100% co-operative.
A vet is calling for all animals to be vaccinated against a new strain of leptospirosis (lepto) discovered on New Zealand dairy farms in recent years.
Dairy
Rural banker Rabobank is partnering with Food Rescue Kitchen on a new TV series which airs this weekend that aims to shine a light on the real and growing issues of food waste, food poverty and social isolation in New Zealand.
Telco infrastructure provider Chorus says that it believes all Kiwis – particularly those in the rural areas – need access to high-speed, reliable broadband.