Listeriosis impacted pig producers

The outbreak of listeriosis in South Africa was one the major challenges which Namibian pig producers experienced during the past year. This was highlighted during an annual general meeting where pig producers met to discuss matters in the industry. According to the Namibian Agricultural Union (NAU) the pig industry experienced major challenges, especially with the outbreak of listeriosis at one of the biggest meat processors in South Africa, Enterprise. The listeriosis outbreak was wrongly associated with pork and brought about consumer resistance. This caused pork consumption to decrease and also led to a decline in prices. Food products identified as the source of the disease were polonies while other products such as viennas, russians, frankfurters and other sausages and cold meats not typically cooked, were also at risk due to possible cross-contamination.However, the perception among consumers that all ready-to-eat meat products were affected impacted the industry greatly. The union also said the perception surrounding the outbreak of 'swine flu', which has nothing to do with pigs, also needs to be corrected. Fortunately for pig producers in Namibia, the Meat Board of Namibia has a pig marketing scheme in place which guarantees prices and marketing for producers and therefore they can survive. Through this scheme the pig industry has grown and Namibia produces 53% of its own use against the 47% which must be imported. Two guest speakers were invited to inform members about the importance of bio security at a pig farms as well as the feeding of balanced rations. STAFF REPORTER

Listeriosis impacted pig producers

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Namibian Sun 2025-08-15

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Listeriosis impacted pig producers

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Namibian Sun 2025-08-15

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