You know it’s summer when the tempting scent of the grill starts wafting through the neighbourhood. After a long, hard winter and rainy spring, Manitobans are eager to fire up their barbecues and smokers, while preparing to welcome friends and family back to their outdoor living spaces. Whether it’s a small backyard gathering, a large potluck cookout, or an intimate balcony dinner for two, a new grilling season means oodles of opportunity to get adventurous with different cuts of meat, including healthy and affordable, locally produced pork.

Pork is a high-quality protein that’s rich in key vitamins and minerals. Lean, nutrient-rich pork offers Manitobans a natural and tasty option that provides excellent value for your grocery dollar. Because of our province’s ability to produce pork on a large-scale, Manitobans have access to some of the most affordable protein in the world. Over 14,000 people across our province are responsible for ensuring that the pork you see on the grocery shelf and that you put on the grill is of the highest possible standard.

Furthermore, Canadian hog farmers are committed to following the highest quality standards. The responsible use of antibiotics by farmers means you’re able to purchase pork products with confidence, knowing that they are safe and nutritious. Canada has a stringent meat inspection system that ensures only healthy pigs are processed, and farmers act with the best interests of animal wellbeing, food safety, and the environment in mind.

Safe, affordable, and high-quality protein is a great addition to your barbecue or smoker. From tender chops and lean ground pork for juicy burgers to colourful kabobs and roasts ready for the rotisserie, pork will put the thrill in your grill allowing you to play with different spices and marinades to maximize flavour. And to ensure pork remains it’s juicy, tender best, remember to grill with a digital meat thermometer.

To learn more, visit manitobapork.com/food