Pork checkoff delegates have approved a resolution urging the Secretary of Agriculture to vigorously defend their purchase agreement of the “Other White Meat” marketing position from NPPC. Pork Board President Derrick Sleezer of Cherokee, Iowa says HSUS is currently suing the pork industry contesting contractual agreements between the Pork Board and NPPC.
He says it’s important the Ag Secretary defend the pork industry rather than discuss a settlement with HSUS or order a re-evaluation of the value of the trademark.
Sleezer says the approval of the resolution was unanimous from the pork board delegates.
The original lawsuit was dismissed for lack of standing but was re-instated by an appeals court in 2015. Since then, USDA has entered into a settlement discussions with HSUS and has not shared the terms of settlement being discussed with the National Pork Board.
