NC Pork Council

06/19/2026

“Asking for help is not easy, but I have learned that sometimes strength comes from allowing others to walk alongside you. If you would consider becoming a living donor or sharing my story with others, it would mean more than words can express.” - Everett Johnson

For decades, Everett Johnson has been a dedicated advocate for North Carolina’s pork industry, supporting farmers and strengthening communities across our state.

Today, Everett needs our help. He is in need of a living kidney donor, and through the National Kidney Registry's paired donation program, you don't have to be a direct match to make a life-saving difference.
Please take a moment to learn more, consider becoming a donor, or simply share his story. The right donor could be just one share away.

Donate here: https://tinyurl.com/2mybzu7h

06/19/2026

We’re excited to share Part 1 of our 4th of July Hot Dog Flight in collaboration with Bright Leaf Hot Dogs!

Today we’re introducing two recipes that celebrate true North
Carolina heritage: the Classic Carolina Dog and the Carolina BBQ Dog.

Classic Carolina Dog This one is “all the way” — mustard, ketchup, chili, slaw, and onions. You can’t go wrong with a tried-and-true Carolina favorite.

Carolina BBQ Dog This recipe brings together three things we love: barbecue, mac and
cheese, and a classic Brightleaf hot dog. We finish it with a drizzle of Bone Suckin' Sauce
for that perfect NC touch.

If you like these, just wait! We’ve got three more hot dog recipes coming your way next
Friday, June 26th. Stay tuned!

06/18/2026

For America’s big 250th birthday, we decided there was no better way to celebrate than with Bright Leaf Hot Dogs 🌭🇺🇸

Introducing our July 4th gourmet hot dog flight series!

For the next three weeks, we will be sharing videos highlighting some fun, unique, and tasty Bright Leaf recipes. We will launch our first of three videos tomorrow, June 19th, so be sure to keep an
eye out every Friday up until July 4th!

Get ready for flavor, fireworks, and some very fun transitions. 🔥🌭

(Also stay tuned for our giveaway 😉)

06/17/2026

As Natalie (our intern) and I (Caitlyn, digital media specialist) sat and waited for our food (which didn’t take long at all) I observed the guests at Grady’s BBQ in Dudley that afternoon. To my right was a family from the UK. To my left was a blue collar worker who probably worked right up the road and frequented Grady’s often. In front of me was an NC House Representative. In line was a family on their way to the beach.

Grady’s pit master legacy brings people from near and far. Regular locals, local celebrities and those inquisitive about the Eastern NC barbecue lure. Places like Grady’s pull you in and bring you back to simpler times.

All I have to say is, thank goodness for modern GPS! Grady’s is at a crossroads with beautiful longleaf pines in both directions for miles. You can see (and smell if you roll your windows down) the smoke rolling from the pits and know you’re near Eastern NC barbecue perfection. This perfection transpires into mouthwatering southern sides and desserts as well.

Grady’s is worth the drive. They’ll treat you right, your belly will be full and you’ll be as happy as a tick on a fat dog. You’ll grin like a possum eating a sweetpoto. You’ll be finer than frog hair split four ways. Now that’s saying something!

06/17/2026

This was so much fun!!

We're getting warmed up for the 4th of July! 🌭 🔥

We teamed up with the NC Pork Council to create some mouth-watering 🤤 hot dog recipes, and we'll start sharing them this Friday, June 19. 😋

Turn on your notifications so you don't miss out! 🔔 😁

06/15/2026

Nearly 30 years ago, the Hurricanes' pig mascot was created to give the team a connection to North Carolina's pork heritage.

Today, that same pig is celebrating a Stanley Cup.

Congratulations, Canes!! 🏒🐷

To read more about Stormy the mascot, visit: https://www.newsobserver.com/news/local/asked-and-answered/article274646401.html

06/14/2026

Our intern, Natalie Perry, recently had the opportunity to attend the World Pork Expo in Des Moines, Iowa, where she gained valuable firsthand experience in the pork industry.
During the week, Natalie participated in the Collegiate and Industry Professionals Breakfast, assisted with the Young Pork Advocates Issues Meet, attended industry meetings, and explored the latest innovations on the expo floor. She also had the chance to connect with fellow young professionals and industry leaders from across the country.
Experiences like these provide invaluable opportunities for young professionals to expand their knowledge, build industry connections, and gain a deeper understanding of the people and innovations driving pork production forward.
We’re proud to support Natalie as she continues to learn, grow, and represent NC Pork.



World Pork Expo, NC Pork, North Carolina Pork Council, Agriculture, Pork Industry

06/12/2026

We have TWO new exciting collaborations coming your way. The first one is with, . Our intern, and Justin with Bright Leaf Hot Dogs are brining you some gourmet hot dog options in preparation for the 4th of July.

🇺🇸🎇 We are going BIG for America’s 250th birthday!! 🎇🇺🇸

Whenever you see the hot dog reels post (on Friday, June 19 and Friday, June 26) comment your favorite hot dog creation for a chance to win a $100 Bright Leaf package. One entry per person, authentic accounts only. The winner will be announced on Monday, June 29, 2026.

Our next collaboration is with, . and CoCo are whipping up two SWEET recipes for you.

Check our channels regularly for all of this upcoming fun. We love what we do, and we love our agriculture community. 🚜🐷🍠🌭

06/12/2026

Thank you to Garret Barwick and Jacob Turner from the NC Pork Council for stopping by to discuss key issues impacting North Carolina's pork producers. Agriculture remains a vital part of our state's economy, and I appreciate the opportunity to hear their perspectives and discuss ways to support our farming communities.

06/10/2026

Well Raised and Well Traveled.

Built on responsibility. Driven by integrity.
North Carolina pork producers are committed to earning and maintaining public trust through ethical practices, transparency, and a dedication to producing safe, high-quality pork. Because confidence isn’t claimed - it’s earned through the way we work every day.



Responsible Agriculture, Food Safety, Animal Care, Sustainable Farming, Farm To Table, Agriculture Matters, Farming With Integrity