Policy Documents

No. 103 - Packer Ownership of Hogs: Economic and Political Ramifications

John Skorburg –
John W. Skorburg –
December 18, 2003
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Should meat packers be allowed to own livestock, and hogs in particular? The issue deeply divides farm communities and both political parties in many Midwest states. More than a few politicians get elected by claiming to defend “family farms” from “big corporations.” Powerful trends toward consolidation and corporatization in agriculture create a sense of urgency.