Dr. Stuart Smith has found that the national hog grading system is a success for the industry.
The professor from thee University of Saskatchewan said it is helping Canadian processors better understand consumer preferences while delivering the products and eating experience shoppers increasingly expect. to new research highlighted by the University of Saskatchewan.
Staff from the Lacombe Research Centre worked directly with pork processors to assess existing grading systems and determine whether a harmonized national approach could be developed and their work led to industry-wide adoption. The federal government has since said it plans to close the Lacombe Research Centre.
Beyond improving processor efficiency, the research also identified the pork cuts and product characteristics consumers value most, enabling processors to better align production with purchasing preferences.
Dr. Smyth said harmonized grading benefits the entire value chain by allowing processors to better monitor consumer trends, strengthen product consistency, and provide the cuts and quality consumers are seeking. The improved alignment between production and market demand ultimately enhances the competitiveness of Canada’s pork sector both domestically and internationally.
Conestoga Meat Packers of Breslau, Ont., has worked since it was founded by producers to provide feedback on the carcass quality and value of the hogs they produce. It has grown to the second-largest hog-packing plant in Ontario.