• Lower in total fat
• Higher in beta-carotene
• Higher in vitamin E (alpha- tocopherol)
• Higher in the B-vitamins thiamin and riboflavin
• Higher in the minerals calcium, magnesium, and potassium
• Higher in total omega-3s
• A healthier ratio of omega-6 to omega-3 fatty acids (1.65 vs 4.84)
• Higher in CLA (cis-9 trans-11), a potential cancer fighter
• Higher in vaccenic acid (which can be transformed into CLA)
• Lower in the saturated fats linked with heart disease

S.K. Duckett et al, Journal of Animal Science, (published online) June 2009, "Effects of winter stocker growth rate and finishing system on: III. Tissue proximate, fatty acid, vitamin and cholesterol content."

Our mission is to connect sustainable agriculture practices, our family history, and our customers by sharing the family farm experience and serving as an example of healthy land stewardship while providing high quality ethically raised meats.

At Hickory Nut Gap Farm you will find animals raised in their natural environment. Pigs outdoors, cows on pasture eating grass and clover, multiple species grazing together, drinking fresh spring water and living the good life.

Over the last ten years we have developed unique production techniques that are healthy for the animals and the people living on the farm. Farming with the seasons allows us to maintain a healthy diverse ecosystem. The animals are rotated around the farm in a high density, short duration grazing fashion. This eliminates overgrazed pasturelands and concentrated manure areas, keeping the springs and creeks healthy, while promoting aquatic biodiversity.

Our meat has the flavor and tenderness past generations took for granted. Hickory Nut Gap beef is grassfed and grass finished. Grassfed beef is lower in total fat and abundant in "good fats" such as Omega-3 fatty acids and Conjugated Linoleic Acids. We are proud to say that our animals are raised with care and without implanted growth hormones or the use of antibiotics. 100% Grassfed beef and pastured pork raised right! We are proud to provide local food that is good for the health of our environment and our local community.

For more information on other family run businesses please check our Farm Family page.
For WEDDINGS contact Annie Ager 828-628-2616 and check this link for summer camp.