Pasture raised pork from small farms is becoming increasingly popular among consumers who are looking for healthier and more sustainable choices for their diet. Unlike conventional pork found in grocery stores, pasture raised pork from small farms is known for its superior nutrient density and flavor.
But what makes it so different? In this article, we explore the reasons why pasture raised pork on small farms is a more nutrient dense product than meat purchased in the grocery store.
What is Pasture Raised Pork?
Pasture raised pork refers to pigs that are raised on small farms where they have access to pasture and are able to forage for their own food. Heritage breeds, as opposed to commercial breeds may a key difference as well. Find out why!
Pastured pigs are not raised in confinement like many conventionally raised pigs, but instead are free to roam, root, and even play in a larger paddocks which create a more natural outdoor environment. This type of farming mimics the way pigs would live in historic production settings where a herdsman would lead pigs to wooded areas and allow them to forage for natural food sources.
Pigs in tight confinement experience more stress which leads to tail biting, ear biting, and other forms of fighting.
Nutritional Benefits of Pasture Raised Pork
The nutrient profile of any meat we eat is influenced by many factors, including the animal's diet and living conditions. Pasture raised pigs offers a conducive environment to achieve several key benefits that contribute to its superior nutrient density.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Omega-3 fatty acids are essential for our body's health and well-being, playing a critical role in brain function and reducing inflammation. Pasture raised pork has been found to have significantly higher levels of omega-3's compared to conventionally raised pork. This is because the pigs are able to feed on a mix of grasses, and a carefully selected ration of farm raised grains, which are rich in omega-3s.
Instead of being fed a diet high in grains and soy like Many "factory-farmed" pigs are fed high amounts of soy bean meal which
Vitamins and Minerals
Pasture raised pork has been found to contain higher levels of vitamins and minerals compared to conventionally raised pork. Studies have shown that pasture raised pork contains higher levels of vitamin E, vitamin B6, and thiamin.
Additionally, pasture raised pork contains more minerals such as iron, zinc, and potassium. This is due to the pigs' natural foraging behavior, as they are able to consume a wider range of plant sources compared to pigs in factory farms.
These extra minerals come from being raised with access to dirt and the addition of salt to the diet. But not just any salt, sea salt!
You Get Out What You Put In
Pigs will eat just about anything you throw into their feed troughs.
But, when pigs are raised with access to high quality feed like whole grains and forages, the end result is a higher quality pork, full of flavor and nutrients!
Pork in the grocery store has been advertised as white meat. Not pasture raised pork. Pigs raised in accordance with natures principles will produce pork that is red in color. This red color is what happens when pigs raised on pasture are allowed to "root." Commercial pigs are raised without access to healthy soil and are never able to exercise their rooting or running muscles.
Exercise adds oxygen to the blood which gives it a more red appearance.
The Importance of Small Farms
In addition to the health benefits of pasture raised pork, supporting small, sustainable farms has its own set of advantages. These farms prioritize ethical and sustainable farming practices, which is beneficial for both the animals and the environment.
By choosing to purchase pasture raised pork, consumers are supporting these farms and promoting a more sustainable food system.