We’re just going to come out and say it: pork has to be one of the most delicious meats on the face of the planet. It’s used to make a variety of different sausages, ham, pork chops, and pork steaks—all fantastic ways to enjoy pork. And we’re not alone in our assessment of this meat.

Pork is the third most popular meat in the U.S., falling just behind beef and chicken, and the average American eats approximately 51 pounds of pork each year. Its popularity has resulted in a number of pork-themed holidays and observances in the U.S. One of our favorite observances is when October is observed as National Pork Month. This is the perfect month for people to enjoy creating some new pork dishes.

The History Of National Pork Month

We’re not entirely sure when National Pork Month was created, but we believe that it was created sometime during the 1990s. We also don’t know who invented this month, but we suspect that it may have been invented by the U.S. pork industry. That’s entirely theoretical because we haven’t found any concrete evidence that points to this month’s origin, but we think it’s a pretty good educated guess.

Tasty Facts About Pork

Below are some of the tastiest pork facts that we could find. Let’s explore them before talking about how National Pork Month should be observed in October.

• Approximately 12% of the world’s pork is produced in the United States.
• In 2022, pork was the most widely consumed protein around the world.
• There are twice as many pigs in Denmark as there are people.
• According to our research, there are over 180 different pig breeds.
• Pork has more protein per ounce than chicken.
• Pork is packed with B-vitamins.
• Scientists believe that pigs were first domesticated over 9,000 years ago.
• Some religions forbid the eating of pork.

Observing National Pork Month

The best way to observe National Pork Month is by adding some of the best pork dishes to your diet over the next 31 days. Some of our favorite pork recipes include Air Fryer Pork Chops, Pork Fried Rice, Texas Pulled Pork, St. Louis-Style Ribs, BBQ Pork Steaks, Ginger Pork Pot Stickers, and Stuffed Pork Loin.

We recommend that you try out these recipes during this month or some of the hundreds of other ones that can be found on the internet. While you’re doing so, don’t forget to use the hashtag #NationalPorkMonth to spread the word about this month around the globe.