HERMANN, Mo. — October is officially Pork Month in Missouri, recognizing the hardworking farm families, pork producers and agricultural businesses that contribute billions of dollars to the state’s economy while helping feed families across the nation and around the world.
On behalf of Missouri Governor Mike Kehoe, Missouri Director of Agriculture Chris Chinn presented the official Pork Month proclamation to Missouri Pork Association leadership during a ceremony at Hermann Wurst Haus in Hermann, Missouri.
The recognition celebrates Missouri’s position as one of the nation’s leading pork-producing states and the farmers who work year-round to care for their livestock, protect natural resources and provide high-quality pork to consumers.
Missouri Pork Production by the Numbers
Missouri ranks seventh in the United States for hog inventory, with approximately 3.3 million hogs contributing nearly $2.2 billion to the state’s economy.
The state accounts for more than 4.4% of total U.S. pork production, making pork an important part of Missouri’s $93.7 billion agricultural industry.
“Missouri is proud to be a leading producer of high-quality pork, and it is a privilege to recognize the farmers who make that possible during the month of October and throughout the entire year,” said Governor Kehoe. “The pork industry plays a vital role in Missouri’s agriculture economy, supporting jobs and strengthening communities across the entire supply chain.”
Director Chinn also recognized Missouri’s contributions to pork industry research, agricultural leadership and product quality.
“Our state is a world leader when it comes to research, leadership and overall quality of product,” Chinn said. “We are happy to celebrate Missouri pork farmers and the delicious, quality products they provide for consumers.”
Behind Every Pork Product Is a Farm Family
While Pork Month highlights the economic importance of pork production, it also provides an opportunity to recognize the people behind the industry.
From raising and caring for pigs to transporting livestock, processing pork and delivering products to grocery stores and restaurants, Missouri’s pork industry supports communities throughout the state.
Mike Diggs of Lamar, chairman of the Missouri Pork Association Board of Directors, emphasized the connection between consumers and the families who raise their food.
“Every time you enjoy pork, you have a connection to a Missouri farm family,” Diggs said.
“October Pork Month gives us an opportunity to celebrate that connection and recognize the farmers who work every day to produce safe, nutritious pork while caring for our animals, protecting our resources and supporting our communities.”
Celebrating Missouri Pork Producers This Porktober
National Pork Month, also known as Porktober, is an opportunity to celebrate not only the delicious and versatile pork products consumers enjoy, but also the generations of farmers who have helped build America’s pork industry.
For Missouri’s pork producers, the proclamation is a reminder that their work extends far beyond the farm gate, supporting rural economies, agricultural innovation, local businesses and families across the state.
Happy Porktober to Missouri’s pork producers and everyone who helps bring pork from the farm to the table!
Read the official 2026 Missouri Pork Month Proclamation.
For more information about Missouri’s pork industry, visit the Missouri Pork Association.
Reporting by Rachel Fishback | Pork Industry News
Source: Missouri Department of Agriculture Pork Month proclamation announcement.
