Animal agriculture has been a staple in our existence since day one. It has provided a nutritious protein source for generations. Today, it still continues to supply us with not only a healthy diet, but also numerous products ranging from lipstick to heart valves.

Our world has made great strides in relation to technology, transportation and safety. Animal agriculture is no different. Having been raised on a family farm, I am proud of the accomplishments we have made within the industry. Nearly 98 percent of farms in the United States are family-owned and have an improved standard of living because of developments in technology and safety. For example, the majority of pork production is now raised in a climate-controlled environment, compared to 50 years ago when pork was raised in open lots and exposed to the inevitable Iowa winters and hot summers.

Not only has this created a better environment for the animal and the farmer, it also has improved the affordability of pork products. As our world is continuing to change, we also must consider the growing population. According to the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, our world population is estimated to hit 9 billion by 2050. We will need 70 percent more food than we produce now.

Animal agriculture has done a spectacular job of accommodating the growing population by raising animal protein in more efficient, economical and environmental friendly ways. According to the Journal of Nutrition, global meat production has tripled, milk production has doubled, and egg production has quadrupled since 1960. This is due to population growth and a more affluent society worldwide.

We are the future of the world. I believe in animal agriculture and the food it can provide. We are an industry who has utilized science as our basis and we have been able to feed many more people.

As a farm girl, I will take my steak medium rare.