Frequently Asked Questions

Meishans continue to grow up to 3 years old. An adult Meishan can weigh up to 600lbs + depending on its care, environment, and nutrition.

As early as 10 1/2 weeks old. Gilts should be seperated from boars untill they are at least 9-12 months old and ready to breed.

The average Meishan litter is about 12-16 piglets. First litter is usually smaller around 10 but they can have up to 20+.

All pigs will root. Meishans do not root like other breeds. They will root out a shallow mud hole or place to lay to stay cool or find dry dirt after it rains. If in a decent size area the will mostly browse. Most damage to the ground will be from foot traffic more than rooting.

No. Meishans are very docile and get along with other livestock. They can be skittish and will run from fast movement and loud noises until they are comfortable with their environment . 

Meishans do need to be fed grain. They only need 4-5 lbs of 14-16% swine feed per day. Meishans are not hay eaters which is a good thing as hay is hard for them to digest and will slow down their growth. They will graze on grass and legumes and love fresh vegetables from the garden. You should never feed meat scraps to pigs that are going to be used for consumption. You should also not feed them things high in salt or sugar. Pigs need lots of water to keep their salt content down as they do not sweat.

When purchasing registered Meishans you are helping track their population and the conservation effort of the breed. You will also know the pedigrees of your pigs which will help you choose the right breeding stock to avoid inbreeding and genetic defects. 

Meishans do well with other livestock. They are very docile and do not bother other animals. Your biggest worry is, will the other livestock get along with them. Keeping their food separate during feeding can be a concern if one type of food is not compatible with the other species.

The cost of AMBA registered Meishans is going to vary depending on location, age, and cost of care in that area. Some areas of the US are currently having to pay more to have their stock shipped to them, which will increase their costs passing it on to the customer. The price of feed and vet care in different locations will vary as well. Age can also be a factor.  Piglets will have a longer breeding life than a pig that is already 3 years old and the breeder will have more feed invested in a 1-year-old gilt ready to breed verses an 8-week-old piglet. These prices are also subject to change according to the economy. You can expect to pay anywhere from $500 to $1,500 for a piglet to a bred gilt or sow. These prices are very comparable to other breeds of registered pigs.

It is possible to have a Meishan as a farm pet if you have the room and ability to meet its needs. Pigs are social animals, so it is recommended to have at least two. If a pig is by itself, it can get depressed causing it to not eat and possibly be stressed. This is not healthy or fare to your pig. This breed will grow up to 600 lbs. plus so having one or two in your house is not ideal. They need room to grow and enjoy wallowing in the mud.

Yes Meishans are considered a lard breed with a fat cap of 1 to 1 1/2". Their fat renders at a lower temperature and is very smooth. Some have found that it is hard to tell the difference between the back fat and the leaf fat once renderd. Both are amazingly white.

Meishans have a very tender highly marbleized red meat. The fat flows through out the meat giving it more flavor. Meishan pork should be cooked slow and at a low temperature. you will find the fat on the bacon to actually have texture like the meat, it is not chewy. The pork chops are full of flavor just like the fat that surrounds them. The coppa roast when roasted like a prime rib taste just like medium rare roast beef. There are way too many qualities to list.