Heritage Pork

 

 

Are you considering purchasing a large portion of a pig, such as a whole or half? You may have questions about the quantity of meat you'll receive, the variety of cuts available, the timeline of the process, and how it all comes together. We’re here to clarify any uncertainty and ensure you feel confident and excited about your choice of farm-fresh, high-quality meat!

• The average live weight of the Abbey pigs is a hearty 350 lb.
• Once butchered—after the organs, bones, and excess waste are removed—the average weight settles at about 260 lb. After butchering, this meat undergoes a curing process, during which it is referred to as hanging or rail weight.
• After hanging for a week, the fat and bones are trimmed, and the meat is cut and packaged.
• The final yield you will receive from the butcher (which may vary depending on the specific cuts—whether they are bone-in or boneless) will average around 169 lb per whole pig. Therefore, you can expect approximately 84 lb if you order a half pig.

 

Seasoning and Smoking/Curing Options

• Plain Option: Priced at $5.00 per pound, this package does not include any sausage seasoning or smoking/curing options.
• Smoked/Cured Option: Available at $7.00 per pound, this package includes breakfast sausage, breakfast patties, and options for smoking and curing hams and roasts. Additionally, our meat processor provides a nitrate-free option for curing that uses celery powder, catering to those who prefer a more organic approach to smoked meats.

How Much Freezer Space Will This Take Up?

• A whole pig will require about 5-6 cubic feet of space in your freezer.
• A half pig will take up approximately 2-3 cubic feet.

Cost

Plain Option:

• The average cost of a whole pig, at $5.00/lb packaged weight, is approximately $845.00.
• The average cost of a half pig, at $5.00/lb packaged weight, is approximately $420.00.

Smoking/Curing Option:

• The average cost of a whole pig, at $7.00/lb packaged weight, is approximately $1,183.00.
• The average cost of a half pig, at $7.00/lb packaged weight, is approximately $588.00.

 

Summary               

	Avg. Live Weight	Avg. Packaged Weight	Plain Option ($5.00/lb)	Smoked/Cured Option ($7.00/lb)
Whole Pig	350 lb	169 lb	$845.00	$1183.00
Half Pig		84 lb	$420.00	$588.00