Illinois Bacon Day brings pork producers, policy makers together

The Illinois Pork Producers Association was at the Illinois State Capitol to celebrate the commemoration of Senate Joint Resolution 24 designating May 7 as Illinois Bacon Day, sponsored by Senators Chris Balkema, Doris Turner, Sally Turner, Craig Wilcox and Li Arellano Jr. in the Senate, and Representatives Kelly Cassidy and Katie Stuart in the House.

Illinois pig farmers, Illinois Pork Producers Association staff and FFA state officers handed out BLT sandwiches to legislators and discussed the role that pork production plays in Illinois, the fourth largest pork producing state in the United States.

Illinois pig farmers produce over 6 billion slices of bacon annually. Additionally, Illinois pork production is ranked 4th in the U.S. and supports over 30,000 jobs, contributing an estimated $13.8 billion dollars to the economy.

“Illinois Bacon Day is an opportunity to educate our stakeholders about our industry and discuss the issues currently facing pig farmers," said IPPA President Josh Maschhoff. "We understand many stakeholders don’t represent rural districts, and Bacon Day is a great way for pork producers to connect with legislators on a personal level.”

"Our elected officials have demonstrated a deep understanding of the importance of agriculture to our state's prosperity," said Cheryl Walsh, past president of the Illinois Pork Producers Association. "Through their efforts, we've seen meaningful progress on issues that matter to pork producers. The IPPA especially appreciates the open dialogue and collaborative approach legislators have taken in addressing the challenges and opportunities within the livestock sector. Their leadership helps ensure that Illinois remains 4th in the nation, contributing to both local and global food security."