2026 Keystone Pork Expo 

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April 2, 2026 

Editors Note: Photo(s) Attached Suggested Caption: Neal Hull speaks at Keystone Pork Expo 

2026 Keystone Pork Expo 

The 2026 Penn Ag Expo, held on Tuesday, April 2, welcomed over 600 producers, and industry professionals for a full day of education, networking, and collaborating across Pennsylvania agriculture. The Pennsylvania Pork Producers Council once again hosted the Keystone Pork Expo sessions, delivering timely updates for producers across the state. 

Dr. Melissa Billings of Boehringer Ingelheim opened the keynote sessions with updates on animal health advancements impactingpork production. Dr. Meghann Pierdon from Penn Vet followed with a detailed overview of GIS and swine health, highlighting emerging data and trends shaping herd management.  

Courtney Gray, Executive Director of the Pennsylvania Pork Producers Council, provided a review of the efforts out forth by the PPPC board throughout the past year. Gray highlighted the efforts surrounding National Pork Boards campaign, Taste What Pork Can Do and how it is being utilized in the state of Pennsylvania.  

Neal Hull of the National Pork Board highlighted how the Taste What Pork Can Do campaign has proven to be resonating with consumers across the nation. Hull spoke on the increases in sales as well as the changes in perspectives that have been made from packers and processors as they move more pork. Mykenzie Darg from the National Pork Producers Council concluded the morning session with updates on policy priorities, industry challenges, and engagement with the current administration in Washington, D.C.Darg also shared about the Pork Industry Immersion program that she is currently a part of. Through the Immersion program, Darghas had the opportunity to spend 8 months working at the National Pork Board, is now in her 8-month rotation at the National Pork Producers Council and will continue to Oklahoma Pork to spend 8 months. Darg is the third participant of this program.  

Throughout the day, attendees explored the trade show floor, connecting with industry partners, discovering new technologies, and strengthening relationships within the pork community. 

“The Keystone Pork Expo remains an essential event for Pennsylvania pork producers, providing new connections and keeping them up to date on the work being done across the state and nation,” said Gray. “We are grateful for the speakers and participants who continue to invest in the future of Pennsylvania pork production each year.” 

To learn more about the PA Pork Producers Council visit www.whypapork.com or follow along on social media @whypapork.  

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The Pennsylvania Pork Producers Council (PPPC) administers the Pork Checkoff on behalf of the state’s nearly 3,000 pig farmers. PPPC acts as a steward for Pork Checkoff funds at the state level and is charged with executing specific programs in the areas of promotion, research and education. No funds may be used for lobbying or to influence government policy. Checkoff-funded promotions are designed to increase domestic pork sales through consumer, retail and food service outreach. Additionally, Checkoff-funded research is administered in all areas of pork production, processing and human nutrition to develop a higher quality, more profitable and innovative product in the competitive meat protein market. 

Pennsylvania Pork Industry Leaders Attend the 2026 National Pork Industry Forum 

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March 6, 2026 

Editors Note: Photo Attached; From left to right: Kurt Good, Aaron Ott, Matt Brandt, Jim Lee, Ben Barcovtch, Coleman Wagner, Nat Stas.  

Pennsylvania Pork Industry Leaders Attend the 2026 National Pork Industry Forum 

The 2026 National Pork Industry Forum was held March 4–6 in Kansas City, Missouri. The annual event is hosted by the National Pork Board and the National Pork Producers Council and brings together pork producers and industry leaders from across the country to discuss important issues shaping the future of the pork industry. 

Pork Forum provides an opportunity for industry members to collaborate on priorities impacting pork production. Throughout the event, producers participate in educational sessions, discuss challenges and opportunities facing the industry, and vote on policy resolutions while also electing national leadership. 

Pennsylvania was represented this year with seven members in attendance.  

  • Ben Barcovtch, Matt Brandt, Nat Stas, Aaron Ott, and Coleman Wagner (serving as an alternate) served as National Pork Board Representatives on behalf of Pennsylvania.  
  • Representing Pennsylvania as National Pork Producers Council candidates were Aaron Ott, Jim Lee, Ben Barcovtch, Matt Brandt, and Kurt Good.  

For more information on the PA Pork Producers Council and how to get involved, please contact Courtney Gray, cgray@papork.com or visit www.papork.com. 

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The Pennsylvania Pork Producers Council (PPPC) administers the Pork Checkoff on behalf of the state’s nearly 3,000 pig farmers. PPPC acts as a steward for Pork Checkoff funds at the state level and is charged with executing specific programs in the areas of promotion, research and education. No funds may be used for lobbying or to influence government policy. Checkoff-funded promotions are designed to increase domestic pork sales through consumer, retail and food service outreach. Additionally, Checkoff-funded research is administered in all areas of pork production, processing and human nutrition to develop a higher quality, more profitable and innovative product in the competitive meat protein market. 

PA Pork partners with Penn State Athletics Performance Dining Center in the Greenburg Sports Complex 

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December 18th, 2025 

Editors Note: Photo(s) Attached Suggested Caption: Penn State Performance Dietician, Carly Orlacchio 

PA Pork partners with Penn State Athletics Performance Dining Center in the Greenburg Sports Complex 

PA Pork is proud to debut a new video filmed inside Penn State’s state-of-the-art Performance Dining Center inside The Greenburg Sports Complex. The complex is a facility designed exclusively for Penn State student athletes. The video highlights the versatility and protein benefits of pork. 

The video features Carly Orlacchio, RD, CSSD, Performance Dietitian and Food Service Coordinator, who offers insight into how pork supports high-performance fueling. She was joined by John Watkins, Executive Chef, Penn State Performance Dining Center.  

This project builds on a growing collaborative relationship between PA Pork and the Penn State sports nutrition. The partnership continues to create opportunities to educate athletes, coaches, and staff on the role pork can play in performance and recovery. 

As part of this initiative, PA Pork and Penn State Athletics will also feature pork recipes throughout the wrestling season. These dishes are designed to offer convenient, flavorful, and nutrient-dense options that align with protein goals. 

PA Pork looks forward to expanding this work with Penn State’s sports dietitians and further sharing the story of how quality pork products help fuel Penn State student-athletes. 

To learn more about the PA Pork Producers Council visit www.whypapork.com or follow along on social media @whypapork.  

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The Pennsylvania Pork Producers Council (PPPC) administers the Pork Checkoff on behalf of the state’s nearly 3,000 pig farmers. PPPC acts as a steward for Pork Checkoff funds at the state level and is charged with executing specific programs in the areas of promotion, research and education. No funds may be used for lobbying or to influence government policy. Checkoff-funded promotions are designed to increase domestic pork sales through consumer, retail and food service outreach. Additionally, Checkoff-funded research is administered in all areas of pork production, processing and human nutrition to develop a higher quality, more profitable and innovative product in the competitive meat protein market. 

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Pennsylvania Declares Pork Month during Capitol Breakfast  

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October 29, 2025 

Editors Note: Photo(s) Attached Suggested Caption: Pork Month Declaration presentation during the 2025 Pork and Policy event held by PA SIP.  

Pennsylvania Declares Pork Month during Capitol Breakfast  

The Pennsylvania Strategic Investment Program (PA SIP) hosted its first-ever Pork and Policy event at the Pennsylvania State Capitol on Wednesday, October 29. The gathering brought together agricultural leaders, policymakers, and members of Pennsylvania’s pork industry to celebrate October as Pork Month in the Commonwealth. 

During the event, an official proclamation was presented declaring October as Pork Month in Pennsylvania, recognizing the pork industry’s significant contributions to the state’s economy, workforce, and food system. The proclamation celebrates the dedication of Pennsylvania’s pork producers and their ongoing commitment to sustainability, animal care, and community engagement. 

“Pork and Policy is an opportunity to bring producers and policymakers together to strengthen understanding and collaboration across the pork industry,” said Kurt Good, PA SIP Vice Chairman. “We’re proud to recognize the men and women who raise pork in Pennsylvania and the positive impact they make every day.” 

Nearly 100 attendees joined the morning celebration, which featured a breakfast highlighting a variety of pork cuts and dishes, along with maple bacon signature lattes from a local Pennsylvania business. The event provided a welcoming environment for conversation, connection, and collaboration between pork producers and legislators. 

PA SIP extends its appreciation to the elected officials and their staff who attended and continue to show their support for Pennsylvania’s pork industry. Their ongoing engagement helps strengthen the future of agriculture in the Commonwealth and ensures that the voices of Pennsylvania’s producers remain heard in policy discussions. 

The Pork and Policy event reflects PA SIP’s commitment to fostering dialogue between agriculture and government, celebrating industry achievements, and promoting awareness of the critical role pork production plays in Pennsylvania’s economy and communities. 

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The Pennsylvania Strategic Investment Program (PA SIP) functions as a state-level initiative affiliated with the National Pork Producers Council (NPPC) to ensure producer-driven input and resources are effectively directed toward advancing the pork industry. PA SIP manages voluntary contributions from producers and industry partners. These funds are allocated to support initiatives that strengthen the state’s pork sector and provide Pennsylvania producers with a voice in decision-making processes. PA SIP not only ensures local producer engagement but also channels state-level resources into broader national advocacy efforts, linking Pennsylvania’s pork producers to a coordinated policy strategy that promotes sustainability, economic growth, and long-term industry viability. 

PA Pork Strengthens Retail Partnerships with Weis Markets and Allegiance Retail Services 

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October 24, 2025 

Editor’s Note: Photo Attached: Weis Markets recipe of a Spicy Asian Ground Pork Burger 

PA Pork Strengthens Retail Partnerships with Weis Markets and Allegiance Retail Services 

The Pennsylvania Pork Producers Council (PA Pork), continues to build strong retail connections through strategic collaborations with Weis Markets and Allegiance Retail Services, reaching thousands of consumers with engaging, educational content promoting fresh pork. 

In September, PA Pork teamed up with Weis Markets for a social-media campaign featuring registered dietitian Kimberly Varner, RD, who shared simple, flavorful pork recipes that inspire confidence in the kitchen. The campaign’s videos, featured on Weis’s Facebook, Instagram and TikTok pages, generated significant viewership. 

To encourage trial and engagement, Weis hosted a $25 gift-card giveaway and distributed pork coupons through social media and Penn State tailgate prize packs. Weis Quality Ground Pork saw notable increases in month-over-month and year-over-year sales Compared to the month prior to the promotion: 23% increase in sales and 21% increase in units sold. Year over year for the month of September: 103% increase in sales and 55% increase in units sold 

The partnership extends beyond Weis through PA Pork’s collaboration with Allegiance Retail Services, a cooperative serving independent supermarkets across the Northeast. Through a custom recipe, email blast, and a cooking class, the Allegiance partnership helps highlight pork’s versatility and nutritional value at member stores including Foodtown, Brooklyn Harvest and Fresh Grocer. 

The video shorts and longer-format content illustrate this multi-channel approach: 

Together with its retail partners, PA Pork continues to strengthen the connection between farmers, retailers and consumers, ensuring pork remains a trusted and loved protein across Pennsylvania and beyond. 

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The Pennsylvania Pork Producers Council (PPPC) administers the Pork Checkoff on behalf of the state’s nearly 3,000 pig farmers. PPPC acts as a steward for Pork Checkoff funds at the state level and is charged with executing specific programs in the areas of promotion, research and education. No funds may be used for lobbying or to influence government policy. Checkoff-funded promotions are designed to increase domestic pork sales through consumer, retail and food service outreach. Additionally, Checkoff-funded research is administered in all areas of pork production, processing and human nutrition to develop a higher quality, more profitable and innovative product in the competitive meat protein market. 

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PA Pork Highlights “Taste What Pork Can Do” Campaign at State Farm Volleyball Classic

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September 1, 2025 

Editors Note: Photo Attached; PA Pork Sponsored swag for locker rooms.  

PA Pork Highlights “Taste What Pork Can Do” Campaign at State Farm Volleyball Classic 
 

Pittsburgh, PA -The Pennsylvania Pork Producers Council (PA Pork) proudly wrapped up its sponsorship of the State Farm Volleyball Classic, where pork took center stage in fueling athletes and engaging fans throughout the weekend. 
 
As part of practice day activities on Saturday, August 30, all participating teams were treated to a pork lunch, emphasizing pork’s role as a lean, high-quality protein that supports performance, strength, and recovery. 
 
Participating teams also received “Taste What Pork Can Do” branded giveaways, including phone charging cords, stickers, and volleyball socks, connecting athletes with pork in a fun and memorable way. 
 
Throughout the tournament, fans experienced the “Taste What Pork Can Do” campaign across the stadium concourse and on the jumbotron, where they learned more about the important role pork plays in a balanced diet. 
  

The Pennsylvania Pork Producers Council (PPPC) administers the Pork Checkoff on behalf of the state’s nearly 3,000 pig farmers. PPPC acts as a steward for Pork Checkoff funds at the state level and is charged with executing specific programs in the areas of promotion, research and education. No funds may be used for lobbying or to influence government policy. Checkoff-funded promotions are designed to increase domestic pork sales through consumer, retail and food service outreach. Additionally, Checkoff-funded research is administered in all areas of pork production, processing and human nutrition to develop a higher quality, more profitable and innovative product in the competitive meat protein market. 

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PA Pork Celebrates Successful Weekend at Pittsburgh Rib Festival

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September 1, 2025 

Editors Note: Photo Attached; PA Pork represented at Pittsburgh Ribfest. L:R –  Ben Barcovtch, Jaylen Warren, and Chris Hoffman.  

PA Pork Celebrates Successful Weekend at Pittsburgh Rib Festival 

Pittsburgh, PA – The Pennsylvania Pork Producers Council (PA Pork) celebrated the Rib Fest at Acrisure Stadium. Thousands of attendees enjoyed world-class barbecue, live entertainment, and the chance to connect with local pig farmers and rib fanatics. 
 
A highlight of the festival was the opportunity for fans to meet Pittsburgh Steelers Running Back Jaylen Warren at the PA Pork booth. Warren’s appearance drew enthusiastic crowds and added to the energy of an already vibrant weekend. Warren is a proud supporter of pork in his diet, recognizing its dynamic protein makeup.  
 
PA Pork also had the honor of serving as the official sponsor of the Pittmaster Awards, which recognized the top pitmasters and their outstanding barbecue creations. The awards celebrated the hard work, creativity, and dedication of the competitors who make Ribfest a summer favorite year after year. 
 
2025 Pittmaster Award Winners 
Best Ribs: Off the Bone 
Best Sauce: After Hours 

“We were proud to be part of such a signature event in Pittsburgh,” said Katelyn Fessler of the Pennsylvania Pork Producers Council. “From celebrating the skill of pitmasters to giving fans the chance to meet Jaylen Warren, this weekend was all about bringing people together around pork and community.” 
 
PA Pork’s presence at Ribfest highlights its ongoing mission to connect with consumers, support pork producers across Pennsylvania, and showcase the versatility and value of pork. 
 

The Pennsylvania Pork Producers Council (PPPC) administers the Pork Checkoff on behalf of the state’s nearly 3,000 pig farmers. PPPC acts as a steward for Pork Checkoff funds at the state level and is charged with executing specific programs in the areas of promotion, research and education. No funds may be used for lobbying or to influence government policy. Checkoff-funded promotions are designed to increase domestic pork sales through consumer, retail and food service outreach. Additionally, Checkoff-funded research is administered in all areas of pork production, processing and human nutrition to develop a higher quality, more profitable and innovative product in the competitive meat protein market. 

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PA Pork Producers Council Hosts Emerging Leaders for Summer Program in Lewisburg 

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July 25, 2025 

Editor’s Note: Photo Attached: Emerging Leaders Group at Pik Rite in Lewisburg, PA. 

PA Pork Producers Council Hosts Emerging Leaders for Summer Program in Lewisburg 

The Pennsylvania Pork Producers Council welcomed its 2025 Emerging Leaders class to Lewisburg on July 25th, for a summer event focused on expanding knowledge of the pork industry and its allied sectors. 

The day began with a presentation from Kevin Sheehan, Senior Director of Processor Engagement at the National Pork Board. His session, titled Packer 101, offered attendees an inside look at the pork processing sector, highlighting how pork products move from farms to consumers and the vital role packers play in the supply chain. 

The class then heard from Nat Stas, Technical Services Director at Pig Improvement Company (PIC) and a board member of the Pennsylvania Pork Producers Council. Nat shared his expertise on swine genetics, explaining how genetics influence multiple aspects of pork production—including feed efficiency, animal health, and overall product quality. 

To conclude the day, the group toured Pik Rite, a manufacturing company based in Lewisburg specializing in agricultural equipment. The Emerging Leaders learned about Pik Rite’s history, future business plans, and experienced a comprehensive tour of the facility—from initial fabrication in the warehouse to the final assembly of spreaders and trucks ready for delivery. 

“We are incredibly grateful to Kevin Sheehan, Nat Stas, and the team at Pik Rite for taking the time to speak with our Emerging Leaders,” said Katelyn Fessler, communications specialist. “These experiences provide invaluable insight into the diverse sectors that support pig farming in Pennsylvania and beyond.” 

The Emerging Leaders program, coordinated by the PA Pork Producers Council, aims to develop the next generation of advocates and professionals in the pork industry through hands-on learning, leadership development, and industry networking. 

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The Pennsylvania Pork Producers Council (PPPC) administers the Pork Checkoff on behalf of the state’s nearly 3,000 pig farmers. PPPC acts as a steward for Pork Checkoff funds at the state level and is charged with executing specific programs in the areas of promotion, research and education. No funds may be used for lobbying or to influence government policy. Checkoff-funded promotions are designed to increase domestic pork sales through consumer, retail and food service outreach. Additionally, Checkoff-funded research is administered in all areas of pork production, processing and human nutrition to develop a higher quality, more profitable and innovative product in the competitive meat protein market. 

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