Is Buying a Whole or Half Hog Right for You?
We hear this question a lot — and it makes sense. Buying pork in bulk isn’t something most of us grew up doing, but more families are discovering the value of it. Whether it’s for the savings, the flavor, or the peace of mind that comes from knowing exactly where your food comes from, there’s plenty to love about stocking your freezer with a whole or half hog.
But is it the right fit for you?
In this post, we’ll walk you through the basics — from how much meat to expect, to the space you’ll need — so you can decide if buying a hog makes sense for your kitchen, your budget, and your lifestyle.
Who is Bulk Pork For?
In short? More people than you’d think.
If any of these sound like you, a half or whole hog could be a great fit:
You cook at home often and want a variety of cuts on hand
You’re looking for high-quality, locally raised meat at a better price per pound
You’re feeding a family (or just really, really love bacon)
You’d love to make fewer trips to the store
You’ve got freezer space and want to use it in a smart, sustainable way
It’s not just for big families or folks with chest freezers in the garage — though if you have one, let’s put it to good use. With a little planning, this option works well for couples, small households, meal preppers, and adventurous home cooks alike.
Why Buy in Bulk?
Here’s what makes it worth it.
1. Better Value
Buying a half or whole hog lowers your cost per pound compared to grocery store prices. You get a variety of cuts — chops, roasts, sausage, bacon, ribs, ground pork, tenderloin, ham — all in one thoughtful purchase.
2. Quality You Can Trust
When you buy from Sullivan Farms, you know exactly where your pork comes from. Our hogs are raised on pasture, fed a non-GMO/organic diet, and never given antibiotics or hormones. Ever.
This is pork raised right — and you can taste the difference.
3. Everyday Convenience
Imagine opening your freezer and always having dinner options ready. No more last-minute grocery runs or wondering what’s for dinner — it’s all right there, waiting for you.
4. Custom Cuts
Prefer thick-cut chops? Want more sausage and fewer roasts? You can customize how your pork is cut and packaged to fit your household’s preferences. You’ll work with the processor (and we’ll guide you through the process) to make sure everything is just how you like it.
5. More Sustainable
Buying in bulk means less packaging waste, fewer trips to the store, and more respectful use of the whole animal. It supports local regenerative farming — and that’s a win for everyone.
Things to Consider Before You Buy
Before you dive in, here are a few things to think through:
How much freezer space do I need?
A half hog takes up about 3.5 cubic feet — which fits in most fridge/freezer combos. A whole hog needs closer to 7 cubic feet, so a small chest freezer or bottom freezer setup is ideal.
What cuts do I want?
You get to choose! Thin or thick chops, bacon, ribs, roasts, sausage — even specialty items like jowl or ham hocks. Don’t worry if you’re not sure where to start — we’ll help you navigate your options and make sure your order fits your needs, so you can take your list to the processor.
Delicious pork chops are a favorite cut!
Is it cost-effective?
Absolutely. You’re getting premium, pasture-raised pork at a better price per pound than buying individual cuts at the store. And you’ll know exactly what’s in your meat, too.
Do I want to support a small family farm?
When you buy from us, you’re supporting more than just great food. You’re backing a small family farm committed to regenerative practices and transparency.
That means you know how the animal was raised, what it ate, and who raised it. That’s peace of mind you won’t get at the supermarket.
Our family at home on the farm.
Half vs. Whole Hog: What’s the Difference?
Whole Hog
You get the entire animal
Hanging weight: 150–230 lbs
Best for larger families or serious home cooks
Full customization of cuts and packaging
Feeds a family eating pork 3x/week for ~6 months
Half Hog
You get half the animal
Hanging weight: 80–120 lbs
Great for smaller households or first-timers
Still plenty of variety and flexibility
Fits in most standard freezers
So... Is Buying a Hog Worth It?
Yes. 100% yes.
If you’ve dreamed of having a freezer full of high-quality, locally raised pork — of skipping the stress of weekly grocery store trips — or of taking control of what’s on your plate, then this is one of the smartest and most satisfying choices you can make.
And the best part? You don’t have to figure it all out on your own.
We’re here to walk you through the entire process — from understanding freezer space to choosing your cuts.
When you buy from Sullivan Farms, you’re not just getting pork. You’re getting flavor, quality, peace of mind — and the chance to support a real family farm.
Let’s Do This.
You’ve got questions? We’ve got answers.
Ready to reserve your hog? You can do that here.
No more mystery meat. No more guessing what’s for dinner. Just a freezer full of delicious, regeneratively raised pork — cut just how you like it.
Good food starts here. And we’re so glad you’re along for the ride.
