On the eve of the 46th Annual Meeting of the American Association of Swine Veterinarians, Boehringer Ingelheim Vetmedica Inc. hosted their 2015 Swine Health Seminar. The one-day event was packed with information for veterinarians and producers. First to take the stage was Dr. Peter Kristensen, Director PIC Europe at Genus.

He shared insights into Europe and North America’s regulatory and legal environment issues and posed the question – Are we really that different? I caught up with him after his presentation and he mentioned his work in both countries, which has provided him a unique perspective of the industry on both sides.

“You need to be aware that as an industry grows in exports, those strategic decisions are more complex with multiple stakeholders. I try to share some examples of antibiotics and welfare in Europe where having been passive has been very detrimental to the industry.”

“I think it’s about framing questions and not constantly having to answer questions that others have framed for you. I think antibiotic consumption and the use of it is one where the industry has a chance to educate the consumer saying we use antibiotics to treat sick animals. We are responsible in the way we do it and this is what it looks like. I think that is one area were you need a joint strategy and a aggressive approach.”

Dr. Kristensen said his take home message to those in attendance was simply to make a decision. He said to either turn right or turn left, but get out of the middle of the road. “I am not here to sell you a strategy. I am here to sell you the importance of shaping a discussion, shaping an image as an industry as being responsible animal producers in the U.S.”

Listen to my complete interview with Peter here: Interview with Dr. Peter Kristensen

Find all the photos from the event here: 2015 BIVI Swine Health Seminar Photo Album