Question 1

So, you're a family farm?

Accepted Answer

Yes! We are a family owned and operated pig, cattle and grain farm. Our family has been farming for over 100 years, and we're proud to be a part of feeding families just like yours. While there are fewer farms such as ours today, and operations have grown larger, farming still remains a family business.

Question 2

What do you feed your pigs?

Accepted Answer

Today, pigs raised for food are predominantly fed a grain-based, nutritionally balanced diet. The feed is usually based on corn and soybean meal and may include wheat or barley, with vitamins and minerals added to balance dietary requirements for each stage of growth and reproduction. Corn and soybean are the two major ingredients in most pig diets.

Question 3

Do you raise your pigs indoors?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we do. We also understand that this can be a sensitive topic and that some people have questions or concerns about what indoor housing means for animals.

We raise our pigs indoors in barns designed to support their health, comfort, and daily care. Indoor housing allows us to better manage temperature, feed, and water while protecting animals from extreme heat, cold, predators, and disease that can be difficult to control outdoors.

These barns allows caretakers to observe pigs closely every day, respond quickly when care is needed, and maintain clean, well lit environments. Ventilation systems provide fresh air, and feed and water systems are carefully managed to meet animals’ needs consistently throughout the year.

This approach reflects common practices across the US pork industry and is guided by research, veterinary input, and animal care standards. Indoor housing helps us provide consistent care, protect animal health, and produce safe, high quality food.

Question 4

Do you provide donations to the community?

Accepted Answer

We do! As farmers, we understand the important role our business plays in the lives of our team members and the people in the communities in which we live and work in. We are happy to consider donating to your cause. Please visit our Hord Cares page for more information and a way to submit your request.

Question 5

I'm concerned that farming is changing too much. Do you know what I mean?

Accepted Answer

We understand this concern. Farming has changed significantly over the past few decades, and the most noticeable change is often the size of farms. This is not unique to pork production. Across all areas of agriculture, farms have grown as technology, consumer expectations, and market demands have evolved.

As farms have changed, technology has allowed farmers to care for animals and food more consistently and responsibly. Advances in animal health, disease prevention, and food safety are more practical on today’s farms and help ensure animals receive timely care while keeping food safe and affordable for families.

What has not changed is the responsibility farmers feel toward their animals, their land, and the food they produce. While the tools and scale may look different than in past generations, our commitment to responsible farming and caring for animals remains the same.

Question 6

Do you use antibiotics on your farm?

Accepted Answer

Yes, antibiotics are used when needed to keep animals healthy. We focus first on preventing illness through clean barns, strong biosecurity, good nutrition, and daily care. These practices help reduce the need for medical treatment.

If an animal does become sick or is at risk of illness, antibiotics can be an important and responsible way to support recovery and protect overall herd health. All treatments are guided by licensed veterinarians and use only FDA approved medications. Our team is trained through the Pork Quality Assurance Plus program, which sets clear standards for responsible use, accurate dosing, recordkeeping, and required withdrawal times.

By the time animals are marketed, there can no antibiotic residues present. This is required by law and verified through industry safeguards. Responsible antibiotic use allows us to care for our animals properly while providing safe, high quality food for the families who trust us.

Question 7

Have you ever thought about the environmental impact of your farms?

Accepted Answer

Yes, environmental care is something we take seriously. Farming is regulated at the federal, state, and local levels, and our farms operate in compliance with all applicable environmental laws designed to protect air, soil, and water.

Beyond meeting regulations, we take additional steps to be good neighbors and responsible stewards of the land. Natural buffers, planted trees, and thoughtfully designed facilities help reduce odors and protect the surrounding environment. We continually look for ways to operate efficiently and responsibly.

Many of our team members live near our farms. That means the quality of our environment matters to us personally. Caring for the land, water, and air is not just a requirement, it is part of taking pride in where we live and work.

West!

Frequently asked questions