Illinois Pork Producers Champion Transparency and Youth Engagement in Growing Industry
With Rachel Fishback, Pride of Pork TV – Acres TV

At the bustling Illinois Pork Expo, Jennifer Tirey, Executive Director of the Illinois Pork Producers Association (IPPA), sat down with Pride of Pork TV to share exciting developments aimed at strengthening the pork industry’s future—both in rural communities and urban centers alike.
Illinois ranks fourth in the nation for pork production, a point of pride for Tirey and the hundreds of producers she represents. But the IPPA’s efforts extend far beyond the barn. “We have such a unique relationship with our state, having a large urban area like Chicago and many rural areas,” Tirey explained. “That dynamic shapes the way we connect with consumers and stakeholders.”

Building Bridges Through the Grocery Aisle

One of the most impactful efforts comes in the form of partnerships with over 600 grocery stores across Illinois and neighboring states. Collaborations with retail giants like Schnucks, Hy-Vee, and Kroger allow IPPA to promote pork consumption with in-store signage, free recipes, and educational materials.

“A lot of times, they use the resources we offer at no cost,” said Tirey. “We’re not promoting a particular brand—we’re promoting the entire pork industry.”

These relationships didn’t happen overnight. It took years of trust-building and proving the value pork producers can bring to both grocers and shoppers. And with consumers increasingly curious about food sourcing, the timing couldn’t be better.

Investing in the Next Generation

While consumer outreach is crucial, so is securing the future of the industry from within. In fall 2024, IPPA launched a community college partnership aimed at exposing students—regardless of major—to the pork industry through farm tours, plant visits, and hands-on experiences.

“The goal is to create a toolkit that more colleges can use to educate and excite students about agriculture,” Tirey shared. The initiative began with a college in Springfield and has since expanded to Lakeland College in Mattoon, Illinois.

Educating Urban Lawmakers Through Experience

IPPA also works closely with urban legislators, especially those representing districts far removed from agriculture. “We bring them on hog farm tours,” said Tirey. “When they see the care and science that go into animal husbandry, it’s an aha moment.”

For many, those moments turn into advocacy. “One legislator told us, ‘You guys do it right, and I’m going to help you tell your story.’ That’s a win for us.”

Illinois Pork Expo: A Celebration of Innovation and Legacy

The Illinois Pork Expo serves as both a reunion and a launchpad for innovation. With over 80 exhibitors, the event provides producers access to the latest in animal nutrition, veterinary care, and equipment. More importantly, it’s a place where stories and solutions are shared face-to-face.

“This is the largest swine-specific show in Illinois,” Tirey said. “And tonight, we’ll celebrate our Family of the Year—a reminder of the generations of commitment that keep this industry strong.”

Why It Matters
The Illinois Pork Producers Association is stepping up to lead with transparency, education, and collaboration. Whether it’s through a conversation in a grocery aisle, a student tour on a sow farm, or a lawmaker’s eye-opening visit to a barn, the goal remains clear: build understanding, foster connection, and secure the future of pork.

For more information, follow Illinois Pork on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok, visit ilpork.com, or call the office at (217) 529-3100.
Watch the full interview on Pride of Pork TV, streaming now on Acres TV.