What's the latest on the H1N1 flu? What are pork producers doing to be prepared? Is the economic forecast for the nation's pork industry getting any better? Viewers of RFD-TV will have an opportunity to get answers to those questions and more on Monday 12 October, when the Pork Checkoff will sponsor an hour-long programme that includes the opportunity for viewers to call in questions.

Long-time farm broadcaster, Max Armstrong, will be the host for 'RFD-Live: A Conversation About Pork', which will air at 19:00 (Central Daylight Time). Scheduled guests include: Dr Steve Meyer, an agricultural economist; Chris Novak, chief executive officer of the National Pork Board; Dr Paul Sundberg, vice president of science and technology at the National Pork Board; and Wathina Luthi, an Oklahoma pork producer.

"This is a tremendous opportunity for us to tell our story to both pork producers and to others throughout rural America," Mr Novak said.

"As we head into the typical flu season, we want consumers to understand that you cannot get the H1N1 flu from eating or handling pork. But we also want viewers to get a better understanding of what is happening within the pork industry. This is a tough time for pork producers. We want to tell consumers what producers already know: that not only is pork safe, nutritious and delicious, it also is an especially good value at your grocery store right now. This is a great time to be buying pork.

"We also look forward to being able to tell producers about all the measures the Pork Checkoff is taking to promote pork this fall. During the RFD-TV programme we will unveil our newest 30-second television commercial."

Mr Novak said he hopes pork producers, as well as viewers who know little about the pork industry, will call in questions.

RFD-TV, now available in 40 million homes in the US, can be viewed on the DISH Network at channel 231 and on DirecTV channel 345. Viewers with cable television should consult their local listings guide.