Oregon Public Broadcasting

Fears about swine flu have had a noticeable economic impact, globally.

In Oregon, the market impacts have been minimal so far – but with the price of pork commodities dropping, some are concerned.

Ethan Lindsey reports.

Scientists say swine flu can’t be contracted by eating pork, even if the pig had the disease.

But that hasn’t stopped many consumers from saying they will avoid pork at the grocery counter.

Oregon used to have a large number pig farms. As recently as the 1960s, 124,000 pigs were raised and sold in the state.

Today, the U.S. Department of Agriculture says less than 20,000 pigs are marketed in Oregon every year.

Glenn Goschie raises pigs on his farm in Silverton. But has he seen a drop in sales since the news of swine flu?

Glenn Goschie: “No we haven’t. Of course, this is very early and we will be paying attention over the next couple weeks to see what the actual reaction will be.”

Goschie says Oregon’s pig farmers mostly sell their pork at farmers' markets and specialized groceries.  That means locals hope national fears over pork and pig products may not hurt Oregon growers as much.