LEAD Comment: Danny Kluthe, a hog producer and LEAD Class 25 graduate, talks about why pork is such a powerhouse for agriculture and consumers.
When we talk about animal welfare, the conversation often starts and stops with comfort or perception. But in my view as a hog producer, real animal welfare means ensuring that an animal’s life — and ultimately its death — has purpose.
That purpose is not only about producing food, but also about reducing waste and making efficient use of every resource entrusted to us. When we honor the animal in this way, we not only improve economic outcomes, but also enhance environmental sustainability. Less waste means more pork in the market, lower prices for consumers and greater access for families in need.
Today’s pork industry stands as an example of how sustainability and animal welfare align. By improving efficiencies, we are producing more with less — less feed, less water and less energy — without increasing emissions or runoff.
The result is a measurable decrease in environmental impact per pound of pork consumed. That’s a win for farmers, consumers and the environment alike.
There are challenges
At the same time, we face challenges. Finding skilled, mindful workers remains a struggle for many pork producers. This work requires people who truly care about animals, who understand the responsibility of feeding families and who want to make a difference. Without that workforce, our ability to sustain and grow will be limited.
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Another opportunity before us is telling our own story when it comes to animal welfare. Agriculture needs to lead — not follow — the discussion. If we don’t, others will fill the space with narratives that don’t reflect the way we care for our animals or steward our land.
As pork producers, we have both the responsibility and the opportunity to communicate how our practices align with the values of efficiency, respect and sustainability.
Consumers, too, should know the incredible benefits pork provides. Lean pork today is a high-quality protein, packed with nutrients that support overall health. Science clearly demonstrates the need for animal protein in the human diet, providing a complete amino acid profile and critical nutrients like B12 and iron that plant-based alternatives simply cannot match.
Pork is not only nutritious and affordable, but also versatile, flavorful and accessible to all. That’s why it remains the most consumed meat in the world.
Hard work and management
Succeeding as a hog producer requires more than hard work. It takes a strong financial understanding to weather tough markets and seize opportunities to expand or improve when conditions are right. By comparing ourselves to others in the industry, we know whether we’re in the top third of production efficiency — which is exactly where we strive to be.
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After a few lean years, we’re cautiously optimistic that 2025 and 2026 will provide opportunities for the industry to heal and rebuild profitability.
I wouldn’t be in a position to share these perspectives without my experience in the Nebraska LEAD program. LEAD expanded my horizons, gave me the confidence to speak on issues important to our industry and pushed me to think outside the box.
It was a formative experience, and I highly recommend it to any young producer who aspires to be a leader. The program doesn’t just build leadership skills. It challenges you to use them for the betterment of agriculture and your community.
As we look forward, I believe the pork industry has a bright future. With real animal welfare as our foundation, strong producers leading the way, and a commitment to sustainability and consumer health, we can continue to provide safe, affordable and nutritious pork for families in Nebraska and around the world.