Why October Sizzles

The Story Behind National Pork Month

LINCOLN — October may bring pumpkins and harvest festivals, but for America’s pork producers, it’s also the month to celebrate bacon, chops and the hardworking farmers behind them.

Every year, the pork industry marks October as National Pork Month, a time to spotlight producers, promote pork recipes, and remind consumers just how important pigs are to rural economies across the Midwest.

While it’s widely recognized today — and often proclaimed by governors in major pork states — National Pork Month didn’t start with Congress or the White House. It began in 1972, when pork producers themselves decided to dedicate October to promoting their product.

“Historically, October became a month to celebrate the pork industry because producers used to raise pigs over the spring and summer, then bring them to market in the fall,” notes Farm Progress in a look back at the tradition.

At the time, the National Pork Producers Council coordinated voluntary “Nickels for Profit” promotions, and state associations joined in with recipes, fairs and consumer events. The idea stuck — and five decades later, it remains one of agriculture’s most enduring industry observances.

The observance grew along with the industry. When Congress passed the Pork Promotion, Research and Consumer Information Act of 1985, creating the National Pork Board, October’s celebration became a centerpiece for national marketing campaigns.

The slogans have changed — from “Pork. The Other White Meat” to “Real Pork” — but the goal has stayed the same: connect consumers to producers.

Modern campaigns now include social-media “Porktober” challenges, community cookouts, and youth outreach. State groups such as the Nebraska Pork Producers Association use the month to highlight the industry’s economic impact and the next generation of farmers. Today, pork production accounts for billions of dollars in annual economic activity nationwide and supports tens of thousands of jobs across rural America. Nebraska alone produces more than 3.7 million hogs annually, generating an estimated $5.6 billion in total economic impact.

National Pork Month gives producers a moment to celebrate that success — and to say thanks.

“It’s about sharing our story,” said Nebraska Pork Producers Association Executive Director Seth Mitchell in a recent interview. “Producers work hard every day to ensure sustainability and animal care. October is a chance to highlight that commitment and invite people to enjoy great pork.”