Real Pork brings research to consumers

As the number of farmers decreases, the perceived distance between consumers and agriculture seemingly grows. Producers work hard to show the public how dedicated they are to feeding the world and how technology plays a role in meeting that huge responsibility. Thanks in part to social media and farm visits, producers provide the public with glimpses into their lives, how they care for their animals and tend to their crops. Katie Sanders, Extension specialist with North Carolina State University, said it’s critical to connect evidence-based science to consumer’s daily lives to provide them with information to use as they make decisions related to their food and meet the consumers where they are. Sanders is part of the Real Pork Trust Consortium, comprised of scientists from several universities who answer consumer questions about pork and pork production. They conduct research and share the results to educate consumers, building trust between farmers and consumers so they can make