Why Farm-Fresh Meat and Your Local Butcher Matter

What concerns you most about the processed foods available in stores today? Whether it’s additives, sourcing, or food safety, we’d love to hear your thoughts!

In an era of mass production and global supply chains, it can be easy to lose sight of where our food actually comes from. While grocery stores offer convenience, buying farm-fresh pork and supporting local butchers bring invaluable benefits—not just for your family’s table, but for your community and the environment. 

When buying local pork, don’t hesitate to ask questions that give you a clear picture of how the animals are raised and the meat is prepared. Here are some essential questions to consider:

1. How Are the Animals Raised?

• Understanding the pigs’ living conditions is key to knowing the quality of the pork you’re buying. Are they pasture-raised, free-range, or confined?

2. What Do the Animals Eat?

• The animals’ diet directly impacts the flavor and quality of the meat. Inquire about their diet: Are they grass-fed, grain-finished, or do they have a mixed diet?

3. Are Hormones or Antibiotics Used?

• Many consumers today prefer meat that’s free from hormones and antibiotics. Verify with the farmer or butcher if these substances are used in raising the pigs and, if so, at what stage.

4. How Is the Meat Processed?

• Ask about where and how the meat is processed. Local farmers often work with small, state-certified facilities that follow strict hygiene and quality standards.

5. What Cuts Are Available, and Can You Make Custom Orders?

• If you’re buying pork directly from a farmer, you may have access to cuts that aren’t commonly available in stores, like bone-in roasts or specialty sausages. Some farmers even offer custom orders if you’re looking to buy a whole or half hog, so be sure to ask about these options.

6. How Should This Meat Be Cooked and Stored?

• Farmers and butchers often have valuable insights on the best ways to cook and store their meat. Ask for their recommendations on how to get the most flavor out of each cut, especially if you’re trying something new. I cannot tell you how many great ideas my butcher has provided.

7. Do You Offer Bulk Purchase or Subscription Options?

• Buying pork in bulk can be cost-effective and convenient for families. Some farmers and butchers offer subscription services or seasonal packs that deliver a variety of cuts regularly, so you always have quality meat on hand.

Making an Informed, Meaningful Choice

When you buy local, you’re not just getting a delicious product—you’re supporting humane farming practices, building community resilience, and gaining the transparency you deserve when it comes to your food. At Tatum Ranch, we’re passionate about raising happy, healthy animals and providing our customers with meat they can trust and enjoy.