Statewide survey shows strong support for NC pork industry
RALEIGH (January 27, 2025) — A statewide survey of North Carolina voters shows overwhelmingly support for the pork industry, with 73% saying that hog farming has a positive impact on the state, compared to just 14% who think it has a negative impact. These numbers reflect the significant contributions NC Pork makes to the state’s economy and the industry’s vital role in providing safe, affordable food for millions of American families.
“When our farmers are attacked by those who want to put us out of business, it’s easy to forget that the vast majority of people stand behind what we do,” said Roy Lee Lindsey, CEO of the NC Pork Council. “It’s important to keep our pulse on how the public feels so we can address the issues that matter most to consumers.”
The most important issue to consumers was clear — producing safe and affordable food. Other key issues were related to the industry’s environmental impact and animal welfare, highlighting the need to communicate about the responsible ways NC hog farmers care for animals, serve as good stewards of the land, and protect local waterways.
“North Carolina hog farmers take great pride in producing safe and affordable food, while supporting thousands of jobs in rural communities,” Lindsey said. “This survey confirms that the pork industry is essential to our state’s economy and is highly valued.”
KEY FINDINGS
• Hog farming drives rural economies: 87% of voters recognize the pork industry as a key contributor to North Carolina’s economy, especially in rural areas where it provides significant jobs and financial investment. The pork industry contributes more than $10 billion to the NC economy each year.
• Renewable energy efforts are viewed favorably: 80% of voters support farms that invest in renewable energy, and 67% say they are more likely to purchase food from farms using sustainable energy. North Carolina hog farmers are at the forefront of these efforts, capturing methane and converting it into renewable natural gas.
• Misperceptions about family farms: 62% of voters believe most hog farms are owned by corporations, while only 30% think they are run by family farmers. The reality is just the opposite — more than 80% of NC hog farms are family-owned, many passed down through generations.
More than half of North Carolina voters (52%) report eating pork at least once a week — and 68% say they can’t imagine living without bacon and barbecue. According to the National Pork Board, North Carolina is one of ten states that account for more than half of the nation’s pork consumption.
The poll, conducted by CHS & Associates from January 13-20, 2025, surveyed 500 registered voters across North Carolina. The poll had a margin of error of 4.9%.
About the North Carolina Pork Council
As the voice of North Carolina’s pork industry, the NC Pork Council advocates for family farmers and industry partners dedicated to producing high-quality pork in a safe, sustainable, and responsible way. North Carolina’s pork industry is a national leader — ranking third in production — and contributes more than $10 billion to the state’s economy each year. Through advocacy, education, and community engagement, the NC Pork Council promotes responsible farming practices and supports the continued success of the industry. www.ncpork.org.