What is a market hog?

A market hog is a pig raised specifically for meat production, typically reaching market weight between 220 to 280 pounds. These animals are often bred for efficient growth and desirable meat quality, making them suitable for commercial sale. Market hogs are commonly sourced from specialized breeding programs and are usually sold at livestock auctions or directly to processing facilities. The term emphasizes their purpose in the agricultural economy, contrasting with pigs raised for breeding or other non-meat purposes.