The carnivore diet has brought renewed attention to something many people had forgotten:

Not all meat is the same.

As more people focus on nutrient density, animal quality, fat quality, and sourcing, heritage livestock breeds have gained popularity among carnivore diet followers.

One breed that continues to attract attention is the Kunekune pig, a lard breed that has had a revival in recent decades.

Known for its rich flavor, exceptional marbling, high-quality fat, and pasture-based production systems, Kunekune pork offers characteristics that appeal to many meat-focused eaters.

We'll add this before you begin reading: we're carnivore dieters, too.  We started our carnivore journey in January 2025 and have never looked back.  And Kunekune pork is our go-to choice for our meat!

One of the defining characteristics of the carnivore diet is its emphasis on animal fats as an energy source.

Many people discover that modern pork has become increasingly lean over time.

Kunekunes offer a different experience.

Their genetics naturally favor:

• Intramuscular fat
• Marbling
• Flavor development
• Rich eating quality
• Plenty of fat for rendering high-quality lard

This makes many cuts particularly appealing to individuals who prioritize fatty, flavorful meat.

Bacon

Bacon remains one of the most sought-after products among carnivore diet followers.

Many customers appreciate:

• Rich flavor
• High-quality fat
• Versatility

For those seeking higher-fat cuts, pork belly is often considered a carnivore favorite.  (We call it "meat candy").

This is one of those cuts that's perfect for:

• Smoking
• Uncured bacon
• Oven roasting

Perfect for slow cooking and meal preparation.

Some of our favorite ways to cook it are:

• Smoking
• Crock-pot roast
• Pulled pork

Ground pork is versatile, affordable, and ideal for bulk meal prep.

Some of our favorite ways to enjoy ground pork include:

• Homemade sausage blends
• Pork burgers
• Bacon, egg, and pork bowls

Lard

Fat is back, baby!  Fortunately for carnivore dieters, the Kunekune pig supplies plenty of it!

Kunekune leaf and back fat is perfect for:

• Rendering lard
• Adding more fat to leaner cuts
• Cooking eggs
• Cracklin' snackin'

Many carnivore diet followers care deeply about where their food comes from.

Pasture-raised production allows pigs to:

• Root
• Explore
• Socialize
• Express natural behaviors

While individual preferences vary, many consumers prefer sourcing meat from farms that emphasize animal welfare and responsible stewardship.

Heritage livestock breeds often offer qualities that can be difficult to find in modern commodity production systems.

Benefits frequently associated with heritage breeds include:

• Genetic diversity
• Flavor
• Marbling
• Adaptability
• Historical preservation

Kunekunes are one of the best examples of a heritage breed that has retained many of these characteristics.

At Dos Lobos Ranch, we chose Kunekunes because they consistently produce pork that we enjoy eating ourselves.

We value:

• Flavor
• Tenderness
• Marbling
• Heritage genetics
• Pasture-based management

Our goal is not to raise the fastest-growing pigs.

Our goal is to raise exceptional pork.

Is Kunekune pork good for the carnivore diet?

Many carnivore diet followers appreciate Kunekune pork because of its marbling, flavor, and high-quality fat.

Why is Kunekune pork so fatty?

Kunekunes naturally develop more intramuscular fat and marbling than many commercial pig breeds because they are a heritage lard breed of pig.

What are the best Kunekune cuts for carnivore diets?

Popular options include bacon, pork belly, pork chops, Boston butt, ground pork, and sausage.

Is pasture-raised pork better for carnivore diets?

Many carnivore diet followers prefer pasture-raised pork because of animal welfare considerations, transparency, and production practices.

What makes heritage pork different?

Heritage breeds are often valued for their flavor, marbling, genetic diversity, and traditional characteristics.