Celebrating One Health Day
As we join in the global celebration of One Health Day on Nov. 3, I am reminded of the importance of recognizing the interconnectedness of human, animal and environmental health.
Contributing to Research and Education
In my role as the director of producer and public health at the National Pork Board (NPB), I am proud to contribute to the research and education initiatives that embody the We Care® Ethical Principles.
These principles, which include food safety, animal well-being, our people, public health, environment and community, are the cornerstone of our work. They guide us in meeting the increasing market demand for pork, both domestically and internationally, while also allowing us to incorporate the One Health approach into our practices.
Embracing One Health for a Sustainable Pork Future
“The One Health approach is vital in meeting the growing market demand for pork. As consumers become more conscientious about the food they consume, there is a heightened focus on food safety, animal welfare and environmental sustainability.”
Dr. Heather Fowler, Director of Producer and Public Health at the National Pork Board
One Health’s Role in Meeting Market Demand
The One Health approach is vital in meeting the growing market demand for pork. As consumers become more conscientious about the food they consume, there is a heightened focus on food safety, animal welfare and environmental sustainability.
Pork producers meet these demands by abiding by the We Care Ethical Principles. Every day, farmers strive to produce safe, sustainable and nutritious pork products, ensuring they optimize pig health and well-being while being responsible stewards of the environment, good employers and considerate neighbors.
PQA Plus Certification Program: A One Health Approach
These key, overlapping principles are evident in the Pork Quality Assurance® Plus (PQA Plus) certification program, which trains caregivers in the good production practices necessary to produce pork in an ethically responsible, One Health way.
The program emphasizes the importance of not just focusing on healthy animals, but also considering the impact on the environment, the well-being of the community and the health of the people involved in the process. By aligning with the One Health approach, farmers can balance all these areas simultaneously, ensuring a holistic approach to pork production.
My Commitment to One Health
My work at NPB is a testament to my commitment to aligning the swine industry with the One Health approach. Through our research and education initiatives, we strive to create a sustainable and prosperous future for the swine industry while also meeting the growing demands of consumers domestically and internationally.
Let us celebrate One Health Day by acknowledging the importance of this interconnected approach and working together to protect the health and well-being of all living beings on our shared planet.
To read more about how NPB is supporting One Health in the swine industry, check out this AP-sponsored content article featuring an interview with me.
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