The National Pork Board is a program sponsored by the United States Department of Agriculture Agricultural Marketing Service whose purpose is to provide consumer information, perform industry-related research, and promote pork as a food product.
The board's activities are funded by a mandatory commodity checkoff program, which requires hog producers to pay a small percentage-based fee each time an animal is sold.
Its 15 members are chosen by the United States Secretary of Agriculture, based on nominations received from the Pork Act Delegate Body.
Ann Veneman, the Secretary of Agriculture, voided the results, citing problems with petitions filed in advance of the referendum.
The board continued to pay $3 million per year to the National Pork Producers Council.
[12] Critics contend that the Pork Board has exhibited unlawful coordination with policy and advocacy groups.