IPPA celebrates Illinois Bacon Day

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. — The Illinois Pork Producers Association was at the Illinois State Capitol to celebrate the commemoration of Senate Joint Resolution 24 designating May 7 as Illinois Bacon Day.

The resolution was sponsored by state Sens. Chris Balkema, R-Channahon; Doris Turner, D-Springfield; Sally Turner, R-Beason; Craig Wilcox, R-McHenry; and Li Arellano Jr., R-Dixon; as well as state Reps. Kelly Cassidy, D-Chicago, and Katie Stuart, D-Edwardsville, in the House.

Illinois pig farmers, IPPA staff and FFA state officers handed out BLT sandwiches to legislators and discussed the role that pork production plays in Illinois, the fourth largest pork-producing state in the United States.

Illinois pig farmers produce over 6 billion slices of bacon annually. Additionally, Illinois pork production is ranked fourth in the United States and supports over 30,000 jobs, contributing an estimated $13.8 billion dollars to the economy.

“Illinois Bacon Day is an opportunity to educate our stakeholders about our industry and discuss the issues currently facing pig farmers,” said IPPA President Josh Maschhoff.

“We understand many stakeholders don’t represent rural districts, and Bacon Day is a great way for pork producers to connect with legislators on a personal level.”

“Our elected officials have demonstrated a deep understanding of the importance of agriculture to our state’s prosperity,” added Cheryl Walsh, IPPA past president.

“Through their efforts, we’ve seen meaningful progress on issues that matter to pork producers. The IPPA especially appreciates the open dialogue and collaborative approach legislators have taken in addressing the challenges and opportunities within the livestock sector. Their leadership helps ensure that Illinois remains fourth in the nation, contributing to both local and global food security.”

To show their support for Illinois pig farmers, 23 local restaurants participated in Illinois Bacon Day by featuring a bacon or pork special on their menu.

Consumers were also challenged to #BringHomeTheBacon and keep the demand for pork products high by adding bacon or any pork product to their grocery cart every time they shop. In doing so, they support Illinois farms, 96% of which are family owned.