National Pork Month: Celebrating the Legacy of Pork
National Pork Month, celebrated every October, is a time to honor the hard work of pork producers and the delicious, versatile meat they provide. Originally tied to the traditional marketing of hogs in the fall, this month-long celebration now connects consumers with farmers, highlights ethical farming practices, and promotes pork as a nutritious and flavorful protein.
Quick Facts
- When is it? October
- Tagged as: A celebration of pork producers and their contributions to food and agriculture
- What’s the hashtag? #NationalPorkMonth
- When was it founded? The tradition dates back to the mid-20th century but gained prominence in recent decades.
- Who founded it? It is supported by organizations like the National Pork Board and pork industry leaders.
History of National Pork Month
The roots of National Pork Month lie in agricultural traditions when hogs were marketed in October after being raised and fattened through spring and summer. Over time, it evolved into a celebration of pork’s cultural significance and its role in feeding families worldwide. The National Pork Board, established in 1986, has been instrumental in promoting pork through campaigns like “Pork. The Other White Meat,” which helped boost its popularity.
Timeline
- 4900 BCE: Pigs were domesticated in China.
- 1539: Hernando de Soto introduced pigs to America.
- 1986: National Pork Board was established.
- 1987: Launch of “Pork. The Other White Meat” campaign.
- 2011: Introduction of new pork branding initiatives.
Dates by Next Year (2025–2030)
| Year | Month and Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | October 1–31 | Wednesday |
| 2026 | October 1–31 | Thursday |
| 2027 | October 1–31 | Friday |
| 2028 | October 1–31 | Sunday |
| 2029 | October 1–31 | Monday |
| 2030 | October 1–31 | Tuesday |
Observed
National Pork Month is observed across the United States with events like farm tours, cooking demonstrations, and educational campaigns about sustainable farming practices. It’s also a time for consumers to enjoy their favorite pork dishes while learning about the industry’s contributions to food security.
Fun Facts About Pork
- Pigs are among the smartest animals, capable of learning tricks and commands.
- Pork is the most widely consumed meat globally.
- A pig’s squeal can reach up to 115 decibels—louder than some jet engines!
- Over one-third of bacon fat contains healthy fats similar to those found in olive oil.
Quiz
- What month is National Pork Month celebrated?
- Which campaign popularized pork as “The Other White Meat”?
- What percentage of global meat consumption does pork represent?
(Answers: 1. October; 2. “Pork. The Other White Meat”; 3. Approximately 36%.)
FAQs
Why is October designated as National Pork Month?
October was traditionally when hogs were marketed after being raised throughout the year.
What are some popular cuts of pork?
Center-cut chops, ribs, tenderloins, and bacon are among the favorites.
How can I celebrate National Pork Month?
Cook your favorite pork dish, visit a local farm, or share your meals on social media using #NationalPorkMonth.
Related
- World Meat Day
- National Bacon Day
- Sustainable Farming Awareness Week