Posted Jan. 21, 2013

The 41st annual Iowa Pork Congress takes place this week at the Iowa Events Center in Des Moines.

Several thousand hog farmers from Iowa and the Midwest, as well as industry experts, educators, government officials, special guests and students are expected to attend the two-day event Jan. 23 and 24.

Pork Congress features a sold-out tradeshow with 275 domestic and international companies in nearly 500 booths in the spacious Hy-Vee Hall. The event also offers several “free” business seminars for pork producers, social activities and networking opportunities.

For those who did not pre-register to attend, but would like to visit the show, admission is $10.

The activities begin today with the annual invitation-only Taste of Elegance reception. The IPPA Annual Meeting will take place on Tuesday and the Iowa Pork Foundation’s Kickoff Reception and Auction will be held that evening. The Iowa Pork Congress awards banquet will be held Wednesday evening at the Community Choice Credit Union Convention Center. IPPA’s Youth Swine Judging contest for 4-H and FFA members will be held at the Iowa State Fairgrounds Livestock Pavilion on Thursday with a record turnout expected.

Pork Congress hours are 9 to 5 on Wednesday and 9 to 4 on Thursday.

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