The American Berkshire Association’s Progeny Test remains the most extensive unbiased evaluation of progeny performance available to Berkshire breeders. Currently, twelve measures of progeny performance are recorded on every pig that completes the testing period. These include evaluations of carcass composition, growth performance, meat quality and eating quality. These data are compiled and returned to participating breeders for use within their individual breeding or marketing program. In general, the production goals employed by purebred breeders who utilize the Progeny Test can be characterized as either: mainstream pork production aimed at efficient production of lean product; or production aimed at enhanced eating quality.

The ABA is excited to announce the 2022 Progeny Test will be hosted at the Samuel E. Hayes Jr., Livestock Evaluation Center (LEC) located in central Pennsylvania. This state-of-the-art facility is a livestock testing station with shared direction from the PA Department of Agriculture, Penn State University, and respective species and breed associations. The focus of the LEC is to conduct standard, unbiased feeding and management tests, on either individuals or sire groups, within the four major species of meat animals (beef, swine, sheep, and meat goats) to measure genetic differences. With this new partnership, the ABA along with Penn State University Faculty and Students, look forward to a successful Progeny Test of the upmost quality. The opportunity to participate in the ABA Progeny Test has never been greater!

Additional information including the 2022 Progeny Test rules and regulations, entry form, delivery date, and more will be available at americanberkshire.com. If you have any questions regarding the ABA Progeny Test please contact ABA Executive Director, Cory Edge, at cory@americanberkshire.com or a member of the ABA Executive Committee.