Bring on the Berkshire

When it comes to Iowa, pork production is certainly a prevalent part of agriculture. A special part of Iowa agriculture can be found near Sioux City, Iowa at the headquarters of Berkridge Pork. This company produces, markets and processes a unique breed of pork that is in high demand, Berkshires.

Berkridge Pork has been a part of a booming business since it began seven years ago. It was a joint venture for packers and producers, Sioux-Preme and Pro-Pork, when they merged together to produce a high quality niche pork product.  Berkridge’s markets are mainly domestic, but they also play a part in Japanese exports.

“Getting involved with niche pork production was a two-fold process,” said Troy Arends, Berkridge director of sales and marketing. “We first got involved due to the consumer’s desire for high quality pork. In addition, Japan needed purebred Berkshire pork. Less than one-tenth of one percent of the swine industry is Berkshire production, so the need for this elegant pork product was great.”

Using a sustainable model, Berkridge Pork is giving individuals a chance to remain on family farms. Employees at Berkridge have an understanding for each level of production, which provides an opportunity for the company to keep up to date and adapt quickly to the unique, ever-changing atmosphere of the swine industry.

“We have approximately 18 family farms throughout northwest Iowa that contribute to Berkridge Pork. The fact that we can allow families to remain on their farms shows that agriculture is still a viable option for success,” said Troy. 

Berkridge Pork has built a successful organization through niche pork production over the past few years. The loins and hams are extremely popular, which has helped them to build a brand of Berkshire pork that consumers all around the world can appreciate.

Members of Berkridge Pork have taken steps to ensure that they are spreading the message about niche pork production. They spend time working, training, and educating individuals to tell their story, and illustrate the differences between the various programs throughout the pork industry. Employees of Berkridge Pork have familiarized themselves with the Pork Checkoff niche Web site. Therefore, they have been able to learn about niche pork production, as well as keep up to date on the current markets.

“Niche pork, especially Berkshire, is unique. It is different because it has such an interesting story to tell. Chefs around the world can sell the story which not only keeps consumers coming back, but helps to support the industry of niche pork production,” said Troy.

In order to learn more about Berkridge Pork, visit their website at www.berkridge.com, call 800-859-6211 or email tarends@berkridge.com. For more information contact Sioux-Preme packing www.siouxpreme.com or Pro-Pork at www.propork.com.     

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If you are a niche pork producer and would like to have your contact information listed on the Niche Pork Web site, call the Checkoff’s Producer Service Center at 1-800-456-PORK.