3 Reasons to Eat Lard from Pastured Pigs

When you hear the word “lard,” it might conjure up images of old-fashioned cooking or unhealthy fats—but that couldn’t be further from the truth when it comes to lard from pastured pigs.

High-quality lard, especially from pigs raised on pasture, is not only delicious but also packed with nutritional benefits.

At Foxfire Farm, where our pigs roam freely and forage naturally, we believe in the power of real, ethical food.

Here are three reasons why you should consider adding pastured lard to your diet:

1. Nutrient-Rich and Healthy Fat

Contrary to outdated beliefs, lard from pastured pigs is a great source of healthy fats.

It’s particularly high in monounsaturated fats, which are known to support heart health and reduce inflammation.

In fact, the fat profile of lard is similar to that of olive oil.

Additionally, lard from pastured pigs contains vitamin D—a critical nutrient for bone health, immune function, and mood regulation.

Since pastured pigs spend time in the sun, their lard is one of the best animal-based sources of vitamin D available, far surpassing conventional lard from factory-farmed pigs.

2. Clean, Natural, and Ethical

When you eat lard from pastured pigs, you’re consuming a product that is cleaner and more natural than processed vegetable oils and industrial fats.

At Foxfire Farm, our pigs are raised without antibiotics or hormones, and they live in a stress-free environment where they can forage, root, and play.

This humane approach not only leads to happier animals but also results in higher-quality fat that’s free from harmful additives and residues.

Unlike hydrogenated oils and margarine, pastured lard is a minimally processed, natural fat that has been used for generations.

It’s a return to real food—simple, wholesome, and ethical.

3. Versatile and Delicious for Cooking

Lard from pastured pigs is prized by chefs and home cooks alike for its versatility in the kitchen.

It has a high smoke point, making it perfect for frying, sautéing, and roasting.

Plus, it imparts a rich, savory flavor to dishes without being overpowering.

If you’ve ever tasted a flaky pie crust or perfectly crispy roasted vegetables, there’s a good chance lard was involved.

Beyond savory dishes, lard can also be used in baking to create tender biscuits, cookies, and pastries.

When sourced from pasture-raised pigs, lard enhances the flavor of your dishes while providing healthier fat options.

Final Thoughts

Lard from pastured pigs is a nutrient-dense, ethically produced, and delicious fat that deserves a place in your kitchen.

By choosing pork products from farms like Foxfire Farm, where animals are raised humanely and sustainably, you’re making a choice that’s better for your health, better for the animals, and better for the planet.