Highlights from the Fall 2025 Edition
The Canadian Hog Journal offers a clear look at the pressures and progress shaping Canada’s pork sector, with a strong focus on labour, demographics, sustainability and research.
Labour shortages continue to place strain on agriculture nationwide. With more than 16,000 farm jobs unfilled and recent reductions to immigration pathways, the sector faces tightening access to essential workers. The closure of the Agri-Food Immigration Pilot has amplified concerns, underscoring the need for long-term solutions that recognize agriculture’s unique labour realities.
A second emerging pressure is global depopulation. More than 60 countries are already shrinking demographically, a trend expected to grow significantly within two decades. As populations age and demand patterns shift, the food industry will need to move from volume-focused production to value, nutrition and innovation.
Manitoba Pork’s new Sustainability Framework highlights how producers are preparing for a more resilient future. Built on five pillars—economy, environment, people, animal care and collaboration—the framework strengthens both community well-being and environmental outcomes. Efficiency gains have already reduced water, energy and land use, and the sector remains committed to continuous improvement.
At the Saskatchewan Pork Industry Symposium, industry leaders projected renewed optimism, with improving market conditions and stronger profitability expected into 2026. Presenters also emphasized the importance of meeting the expectations of Millennials and Gen Z, who continue to shape food purchasing trends.
Research updates in this issue highlight important advances for producers. New approaches are helping manage Strep suis, while a promising curcumin-derived compound shows strong potential for reducing swine dysentery. Additional studies explore improving pork belly quality and preparing for upcoming national zinc regulations.
National and international updates round out the issue, from trade missions in Japan and China to community outreach across the provinces.