Pigs at the 2015 Washington County Fair.

In the month of October pork producers around the nation are recognized for their contributions to the economy, during National Pork Month.

Pork is the most widely eaten meat, accounting for 36% of all meat consumed. The pork industry is a huge contributor to the state’s economy as well. The industry represents over $7 billion in economic activity for Iowa.

Erin Brenneman, with Brenneman Pork, a family run pork operation, says people in the pork industry are like a family, sharing ideas to make their operations better and more efficient.

October was chosen as pork month because it was the time of year when hogs were traditionally marketed.