Eric Stonestreet quashes unflattering perceptions of pig farming, interview

While Modern Family looked to pave its own depictions of the nuclear family, Eric Stonestreet wants to put some other commonly used phrases out to pasture. Although many people start their day with the sizzle of bacon on the griddle or craving those pork chops and applesauce at dinner, the venerable pig isn’t always described in the most flattering terms. Even if that cute snout and curly tail in children’s books bring smiles, a few common phrases may not have a positive connotation. Isn’t it time to redefine that rural dictionary?

Recently, Eric Stonestreet spoke with FoodSided about his partnership with the National Pork Board. As seen on the brand’s website, Stonestreet has several videos where he shares why certain unflattering connotations about pigs need to be put to rest.

When asked about this partnership, Stonestreet shared he has a long connection to farming, including raising pigs. Although he never wanted to think about how one animal went from the pen to the table, he does appreciate the hard work and dedication of pig farmers, which is one of the reasons why he wants people to stop being rude to the pig.

Beyond the slightly tongue and cheek videos on the National Pork Board website, Stonestreet shared some other thoughts on common “pig misconceptions.” One phrase that he would like to debunk is sweating like a pig.

As Stonestreet said, that phrase usually “invokes some type of disgusting visual” which “reflects poorly on the pig.” That the pig really doesn’t deserve that commentary, especially as Stonestreet said, “pigs are clean animals.”

More importantly, he shared how pig farmers are using the latest technology to offer the best, clean environments for the pigs that they raise. That concept of a pig in slop is far from the truth.

Eric Stonestreet comments on the changing the perception around pork

While many people appreciate the idea of farm to table when it comes to produce, that same concept is coming to light with pork. Beyond the celebrity chefs who highlight local farms on their menus, Stonestreet thinks that the home cook can have a better appreciation for the farmers and pork producers.

Stonestreet wants people to make choices based on true, real facts. He believes that if people can have a better understanding of “how much work and care is put into raising pork” consumers would be more conscious of their pork-centric descriptions.

Since many people subscribe to the idea that we are what we eat, that idea filters through everything on the plate. As Stonestreet explained, pig farmers are very conscious about the type and amount of food that is given to their pigs. He said that it “100% matters” everything that the farmer does. From the clean area where pigs live to the food that the pigs eat, these hard-working farmers really care about the animals that they raise.

Although few regular people will step onto a farm and see these experiences firsthand, the reality is that being an informed consumer is good for everyone involved. Just like people want to know how those vegetables arrive on the table, people can better appreciate all the farmers.

And, what pork recipes does Eric Stonestreet recommend? Stonestreet enjoys a pork cutlet, which can be both a flavorful and a cost effective option for a family. But, he does recommend cooking the cutlet or pork loin carefully. It is best not to overcook it because it loses all its flavor. Of course, bacon and breakfast sausage is always a tasty way to start the day, too.

For more information on debunking pork myths and changing those pork sayings, check out the videos from Eric Stonestreet and National Pork Board.

What pork phrases do you think need to be set to pasture? What is your favorite pork recipe?