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.
Ethanol output is improving, but weak domestic demand and export headwinds temper optimism about corn demand. Renewable Fuels Association President & CEO Geoff Cooper discusses the latest developments on Federal approval of year-round E15.
February 16, 2026 11:00 AM
·
Formally dubbed “Farm Bill 2.0” by committee leadership, the draft surfaces after a high-stakes legislative dance that saw much of the traditional farm bill’s funding, specifically for crop insurance and safety net programs, carved out and passed in last year’s One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA).
February 16, 2026 10:51 AM
·
The National Farm Machinery Show is underway in Louisville, Kentucky, bringing together the latest in agricultural equipment, technology, and innovation. Here are some highlights from the trade show floor so far!
February 13, 2026 05:15 PM
·
RealAg Radio host Shaun Haney discusses how AI integration in grocery retail could impact farmers and the broader food supply chain.
February 13, 2026 02:47 PM
·
Livestock Conservancy Senior Program Manager Jeannette Beranger explains the upcoming poultry census and ongoing efforts to preserve rare and heritage poultry breeds raised across the U.S.
February 13, 2026 02:20 PM
·
Alliant Chairman of Agriculture and former U.S. Ag Secretary Mike Johanns explains the R&D Tax Credit, the recent Tax Court ruling, and ways livestock producers and agribusinesses can qualify.
February 13, 2026 01:51 PM
·
