CHICAGO (RFD NEWS) — Illinois Pork Producers are pushing to restore pork to menus in Chicago Public Schools, where more than 600 schools currently cannot serve pork at breakfast or lunch due to a wellness policy adopted in 2020. The restriction has raised concerns among producers who say pork is an affordable, nutrient-dense protein and an important market for the state’s pork industry.
Jennifer Tirey with the Illinois Pork Producers Association joined us on Monday’s Market Day Report to explain why the policy was put in place and how it continues to affect producers.
In her interview with RFD NEWS, Tirey said the association believes pork can meet school nutrition standards while providing students with essential nutrients like protein, zinc, and B vitamins. She also highlighted the significance of the Chicago Public Schools system as a major institutional buyer and expressed concern that similar wellness policies could spread to other districts if the issue is not addressed.
Tirey recently spoke before the Chicago Board of Education, outlining the role pork plays in balanced school meals and emphasizing the importance of science-based nutrition policy. While no immediate changes were made, she said the conversation is ongoing and producers remain committed to working with school officials.
UNL Extension’s Troy Walz discusses the Nebraska Ranch Practicum, where sessions are held, how producers can get involved, and what ranchers can gain from participating in the program.
February 24, 2026 01:16 PM
·
The Ranger Road Fire in the Oklahoma Panhandle is now 65% contained after burning nearly 300,000 acres over the past week. Kevin Charleston of Specialty Risk Insurance Agency discusses wildfire recovery, livestock insurance considerations, and the importance of preparedness for producers across the Southern Plains.
February 24, 2026 12:28 PM
·
Ag leaders say President Donald Trump’s State of the Union is unlikely to spark major agriculture headlines, but ongoing tariff uncertainty and trade policy remain key concerns, as does the debate around glyphosate and the status of the next Farm Bill.
February 24, 2026 11:57 AM
·
RFD Farm Legal & Tax expert Roger McEowen shares guidance on the 45Z Clean Fuel Production Credit, its impact on renewable energy and agriculture, and what producers should know moving forward.
February 23, 2026 02:36 PM
·
Brooks York of AgriSompo discusses projected prices and how farmers are adapting their crop insurance strategies as the price discovery period comes to a close.
February 23, 2026 12:32 PM
·
For the broader agricultural industry, a railroad antitrust case in Kansas could lead to the dismantling of legacy regulatory shields, creating a more fluid, market-driven transportation grid that prioritizes moving crops efficiently over protecting historic rail monopolies.
February 23, 2026 11:35 AM
·
