Our November 2015 local purveyor: Hog Haven farm.
Courtesy of Hog Haven
Location: Goochland
History: Rob Staples began raising heritage-breed pigs as a hobby, but he left behind his sales job and went full-time in 2014. He and his wife, Verde Shaffer, obtained their first pigs two years ago, and since then, their herd has grown to 70 head. Come this time next year, the farm should reach 200 pigs.
Production Methods: Hog Haven uses no antibiotics or growth hormones, and the hogs’ diet is balanced with non-GMO grain, as well as whey produced locally by Caromont Farm in Esmont. Hog Haven is certified by the Animal Welfare Association (AWA) for humanely raising its hogs, and its meat is processed by the U.S. Department of Agriculture-approved T&E Meats.
Specialties: Gloucestershire Old Spots, one of the oldest known heritage breeds of pig. Hog Haven offers half and whole hogs; sausages; curing and smoking services; and hopes to sell a breakfast sandwich made entirely of local products (including its own sausage) at South of the James Market starting sometime this month.
Where to get it in RVA: Find Staples on Saturdays from 9 a.m. to noon at South of the James Market. You can also purchase Hog Haven pork directly from the farm’s freezer and through its website.
hoghavenfarm.com or (434) 964-7070
