Jim Eadie

PIC Agriculture has always evolved through better tools. From selective breeding and artificial insemination to precision nutrition and modern biosecurity, producers have consistently adopted innovations that improve animal health, efficiency and long-term sustainability. Now, gene editing is emerging as the industry’s next major advancement – and unlike many tools before it, it’s already influencing daily life far beyond the farm.

The Swine Health Information Center welcomed a new board member during its June 22–23, 2026, meeting. Trish Cook, an Iowa pork producer and member of the National Pork Producers Council Board of Directors, joined the SHIC Board, filling the NPPC-appointed seat previously held by Jeremy Pittman, DVM. During the meeting, the board recognized Dr. Pittman, Smithfield Hog Production, for his dedicated service and contributions to SHIC.

One of the longest-running antitrust cases affecting the U.S. pork industry has reached another significant milestone, as a federal judge has granted preliminary approval to settlement agreements involving Agri Stats and Triumph Foods. The decision marks another step toward resolving portions of the multidistrict litigation that has challenged pricing and information-sharing practices within the pork industry for several years.