“Filthy as a pig!” “He eats like a pig!”
These are some common phrases you might hear about pigs.
But, are pigs really dirty and nasty? While they may have that reputation, those who work directly with these peaceful animals may tell you otherwise.
Commercial pigs don’t live in their natural habitat. For that reason, you may see them wallowing and rooting in their own filth, which is rather disgusting. But, they don’t really have a choice. Close quarters and no access to the outdoors mean that they don’t have much freedom to root and cool off as they would naturally.
However, free-range pigs, such as those at Spragg’s show different behaviour. They eat plants and root around in pastures and forests. Yes, maybe they wallow in the mud, but this serves to help keep them cool and prevent sunburn. Because pigs don’t have functional sweat glands, staying cool is a top priority. And mud is just the substance to help them do it.
Did you know something else? Some pigs even wash their food before eating it! Researchers at a zoo in Switzerland discovered that some of the pigs washed off apple halves covered in sand in a stream feature in their habitat. But, here’s the thing: the pigs only washed off dirty apple halves, they ate the clean ones without washing them. So, pigs can see when something’s dirty and decide to do something about it.
As you can see, pigs aren’t really filthy at all! Well, in their natural environment anyway. That’s why you should support free-range pig farming as much as possible. We farm clean, happy pigs to make our customers happy and full.
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About Spragg’s Meat Shop
Spragg’s Meat Shop is a family-owned and operated business located in Rosemary, Alberta. Greg and Bonnie Spragg raise hogs, process, and market their pork products direct to Albertan consumers. Spragg’s works hard to produce the best pork for Albertans, from the day the pigs are born, to the day the pork chops are cut, bacon is smoked, and the roast is marinated. The Spragg family hopes that you get as much enjoyment eating their pork as they do getting it to your table.