The Benefits of Pasture-Raised Pork vs. Commercially Raised Pork

January 3, 2025

When it comes to pork, not all cuts are created equal. If you're looking for healthier, tastier, and more ethical options, pasture-raised pork knocks it out of the park compared to the commercially raised kind. Let’s dig into what makes pasture-raised pork such a powerhouse for your plate—and why it’s worth the switch.

Why Pasture-Raised Pork is the Cream of the Crop

Pastured pigs get to live the good life—roaming outside, munching on grass, and rooting around for tasty forage. Their diet isn’t just good for them; it’s good for you, too. What sets their meat apart:

Better Fats for Better Health:
- Commercial pork tends to have a higher amount of omega-6 fats, which can be inflammatory if eaten in excess. Pasture-raised pork flips the script with a 60% lower omega-6 to omega-3 ratio. That’s a fancy way of saying it’s easier on your heart and your head.
- Omega-3 fats, known for keeping your ticker and brain happy, are 2.4 times more abundant in pastured pork. Talk about brain food!
More Protein, Please:
- Protein is like the building block of life—it helps repair muscles, keep you energized, and fuel your day. Pasture-raised pork serves up 8% more protein than its commercial counterpart. Who doesn’t want a little extra oomph in their meal?
Loaded with Vitamin E:
- This antioxidant superhero protects your cells from damage. Pasture-raised pork delivers twice the amount of vitamin E, giving your immune system a boost while making your skin glow. Win-win!
Heart-Friendly Fat Ratios:
- With 1.3 times more polyunsaturated fats compared to saturated fats, pasture-raised pork is a heart-healthier choice. These good fats can help lower bad cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease.

Commercial Pork: A Different Approach

Pigs raised in commercial systems often live indoors and are fed a consistent diet of grain and soy. While this method supports large-scale production and affordability, it creates a different nutritional profile in the meat. Here’s what that looks like:

Higher omega-6 levels, which in excess, can make it harder to maintain a balanced diet.
Fewer omega-3s and less vitamin E, meaning the meat doesn’t pack as much of a nutritional punch.

If convenience and cost are top priorities, commercial pork fits the bill. However, for those seeking nutrient-dense, flavorful options, it might not fully deliver the same benefits as pasture-raised pork.

Stock Up with a Half Hog

Ready to get more bang for your buck? Ordering a half hog is a smart move for your wallet and your taste buds. Plus, it gives you peace of mind knowing exactly how the meat was raised and processed. Here’s why:

Variety Galore: You’ll get about 60-70 pounds of cut and processed meat, including roasts, chops, bacon, and sausage. It’s like a treasure chest of meaty goodness!
Customizable Cuts: Work with your processor to get the cuts and packaging that suit your family’s needs. No more compromising at the grocery store.
Convenience: With a freezer full of pork, dinner decisions just got a whole lot easier. You’ll have high-quality meat on hand for any recipe you’re whipping up.

Why Sawyer Creek Cattle’s Pork Stands Out

At Sawyer Creek Cattle, we take pride in raising pigs the old-fashioned way. Our pasture-raised, all-natural, non-GMO pork isn’t just a treat for your taste buds—it’s better for your health and the planet. A deposit secures your half hog, and you can check our website for the latest pricing and details.

By choosing our pasture-raised pork, you’re supporting sustainable farming practices, a local business and family, and humane animal care, all while enjoying some of the most flavorful meat around. Stop by our farm store or order online and taste the difference for yourself—you’ll be glad you did.