“Meat Me in the Kitchen”-NJAND

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

May 20, 2025 

Editor’s Note: Photo Attached: Suggested Caption: Attendees of the Meat Me event enjoy a meal together after preparing pork dishes during the hands-on culinary experience.

“Meat Me in the Kitchen”- NJAND 

The Pennsylvania Pork Producers Council, in partnership with the Northeast Beef Promotion Initiative (NEBPI), a subcontractor to the Beef Checkoff, and the New Jersey Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, hosted its first-ever “Meat Me in the Kitchen” Culinary Masterclass on Tuesday evening, May 20th at Ninety Acres Cooking School in Peapack, New Jersey. 

The event welcomed an exclusive audience of New Jersey-based registered dietitian nutritionists from a variety of specialty areas for a hands-on culinary workshop designed to highlight the versatility and nutritional value of pork and beef. Attendees worked in groups under the direction of the Ninety Acres culinary team to prepare and enjoy two featured recipes: Pork Tenderloin with Creamy Pecan Mustard Sauce and Beef Filet Steak with Roquefort Rosemary Sauce. 

In addition to the cooking experience, attendees engaged in a lively discussion about pork and beef’s role in a balanced diet. This was conducted through an “icebreaker” style activity where participants were asked a question and had to reflect upon their perceptions and experiences. Representatives from the PA Pork Producers Council and NEBPI were on hand to answer questions, share insights and facilitate the conversation. 

PA Pork Producers Council would like to thank NEBPI and the New Jersey Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics for their collaboration in making this event a success. The “Meat Me in the Kitchen Culinary Masterclass marks a continued effort to build trust in animal agriculture and create engaging educational experiences that connect nutrition and health professionals with the people and processes behind their food. 

 Follow along as we promote pork and pig farmers throughout the year on Facebook and Instagram or on our website www.whypapork.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. 

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Weston Spect- PLI 2025

Weston Spect, has recently been selected to join the 2025 class for the Pork Leadership Institute (PLI). Weston grew up on a small horse farm in Somerset, Pennsylvania, where he developed a passion for agriculture through 4-H, FFA, and raising fair pigs. He attended Pennsylvania State University, earning a degree in Animal Science with a minor in Equine Science.

After graduation, Weston began his career in feed sales before joining Country View Family Farms. Over the past two years, he has advanced through their Manager Trainee Program and is now the Farrowing Lead at a 5,500-head Prop 12-compliant farm.

Weston credits mentors at Country View Family Farms, for fostering his growth, stating, “The knowledge and support from my colleagues have been invaluable. I’ve been fortunate to learn from a team that prioritizes continuous improvement and innovative problem-solving.”

“I’m incredibly honored and excited to have been selected for PLI,” Spect shared. “The program offers a unique opportunity to meet industry professionals from across the country, exchange ideas, and gain new perspectives that I can bring back to my farm and community.”

As Weston embarks on this journey, he reflects on his growing passion for pork production. “I never imagined how rewarding this industry could be. It’s incredible to walk into a grocery store and see a product you’ve worked hard to produce on the shelf. I encourage young adults to step out of their comfort zones and explore a career in the pork industry—it’s a truly fulfilling experience.”