Selection for Intramuscular Fat in Duroc Swine

Abstract

Today’s U.S. pork industry is experiencing phenomenal growth as it continues to meet consumer demand and pork is the most widely eaten meat worldwide. Pork has proven to be a valuable protein source as Americans consume 66 lbs/person/year on a carcass disappearance basis (USDA, 2002 Agricultural Statistics). Pork production in the United States is also a vital part of the economy. Nearly 19 billion pounds of pork, with a retail value of $38 billion, was processed from about 97 million hogs in 2001. The U.S. pork industry is responsible for over$72 billion in total domestic economic activity. In addition, the pork industry adds over $27 billion of value to basic production inputs such as corn and soybeans (NPPC, 2003)