The source of my lard...

[CookAMH]

is from Thundering Hooves, and the pigs are NOT pastured but are

From the website:

They supply Thundering Hooves with sustainably raised, natural pork - No hormones, no antibiotics, a purely vegetarian feed, and no concrete floors. We are very impressed with the results!

The Hesse pig farm has a series of giant hoop-like shelters (nearly 80 feet wide and 150 feet long). These spacious shelters are open at both ends, and on one end open to a large outdoor space where the pigs are fed a 100% vegetarian feed grown on the Hesse's farm.

More info how they're raised http://www.thunderinghooves.net/about/how_raise.htm#4

I know pastured is ideal, but am I wasting my effort on rendering lard from these pigs? I buy grass fed beef from this farm so I'm not sure why they don't supply pastured pork.

[possum]

While pastured pork is available, pigs don't actually eat grass, so I think it is most important that the pigs eat a good diet and are outside to make vit D.
Melinda

[CookAMH]

So if they're inside, would it be correct to say the Vit D content is minimal?

[tanyalynn]

My understanding is that it can be hard to have enough brushy growth to provide enough greenery and roots and nuts/seeds and whatnot for a pig to use as its only sustenance.

[mellifluousmama]

I think that the lard is still a good healthy option from these pigs (compared to say canola oil). Though I am curious as to what they are calling vegetarian feed. I wouldn't feel as comfortable if they are on a soy based grain diet. YKWIM? Also keep in mind that pigs are omnivorous by nature, not vegetarian.

[mbravebird]

Originally Posted by CookAMH

So if they're inside, would it be correct to say the Vit D content is minimal?

I believe that would be correct. They need sunshine to have vitamin D. So the pastured caveat for pigs is not so much about grass, but about sunshine.