The South African Pork Producers’ Organisation (SAPPO) ensures the long term sustainability of pork producers through six key functions.
Firstly, South African Pork Producers' Organisation provides consumer assurance, which serves as guarantee that the pork sold through formal outlets are safe to eat and complies with certain food and safety as well as production standards in terms of the way pigs are raised and the impact of production on the environment.
Secondly, South African Pork Producers Organisation (SAPPO) actively promotes pork consumption through the generic marketing of pork to the benefit of all producers, whether they are members of the organisation or not. South Africa is not really a pork eating nation in comparison with some European countries, with consumption accounting for only 8% of the overall 62 kg per capita consumption of meat in the country.
SAPPO has managed to increase pork consumption by an average of 3,5% per year over the past decade up until 2018, while consumption in most other countries have remained stagnant. This was achieved by busting prejudices that have had a negative impact on pork consumption and the targeting of the growing middle class in marketing campaigns.
Consumption, nevertheless, suffered a knock after the listeria outbreak that started towards the end of 2018. SAPPO then played a leading role in allaying consumer fears, addressing misconceptions and re-establishing faith in the industry after the outbreak.
Thirdly, SAPPO helps to build business intelligence by collecting information and keeping primary producers informed about issues that might affect them. The information is collected across the value chain, to help farmers make well-informed production, sales and purchasing decisions.
The fourth function concerns research and development, with South African Pork Producers Organisation (SAPPO) working with other stakeholders and role-players to ensure producers have access to the latest technologies and production insights relevant to South Africa’s unique conditions.
The fifth function relates to corporate governance, aimed at ensuring members comply with required production and market regulations. The last function concerns business development and is aimed at helping producers grow their businesses and income.
SouthAfrica.co.za offers a guide to pig farming in South Africa. The commercial pig industry in South Africa is relatively small with a few ...