The Got to Be NC Whole Hog Barbecue Cook-off will take place at the N.C. Mountain State Fair on Saturday, Sept. 6. The event features several barbecue teams competing in a tradition that is well-known across North Carolina.
Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler said, “Not only does this event celebrate one of our state’s signature foods, it also helps support the next generation of agricultural leaders. We have some of the best pitmasters smoking the finest pork to serve a greater purpose.”
During the cook-off, fairgoers can observe teams preparing whole hog barbecue from start to finish. The cooked meat will be donated to the Tuscola High School FFA chapter, which will sell the barbecue to raise funds for its programs.
Sandi Ford of Bone Suckin’ Foods stated, “Bone Suckin’ Sauce is honored to support the Whole Hog Competition at the North Carolina Mountain State Fair, along with supporting the Future Farmers of America, as they are the next generation of North Carolina agriculture.” She added, “This year, we’re also proud to introduce our newest flavor: Bone Suckin’ Eastern Vinegar, joining our award-winning Bone Suckin’ Sweet Southern. Together, they celebrate the rich BBQ traditions of both Eastern and Western North Carolina. From east to west, Bone Suckin’ Sauce is proud to be a part of the flavor and future of our state.”
Sponsors for this year’s event include Bone Suckin’ Sauce as pork sponsor and award sponsors such as the N.C. Soybean Producers Association and Champion Credit Union. Other sponsors are Apple Brandy Prime Cuts and Looper Farms.
Charles Hall, executive director of the N.C. Soybean Producers Association, said, “Hog and poultry farmers are our top customers for high-quality meal made from N.C. soybeans. We are happy to support this great barbecue tradition.”
The NCDA&CS Marketing Division organizes the competition each year. The event starts early in the morning with judging scheduled for 5 p.m., followed by an awards ceremony at 6 p.m. at the Leon Jacobs piano stage.
Noralynn Gudger, director of marketing for Champion Credit Union, commented, “At Champion Credit Union, we are dedicated to strengthening our communities by investing in students. Sponsoring the Got to Be NC Whole Hog Barbecue Cook-off allows us to support the passions of Tuscola FFA while providing meaningful opportunities to grow, learn and lead.”
Admission to the cook-off is included with entry to the fair. More information about attending can be found on the Mountain State Fair website.
Got to Be NC serves as North Carolina Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services’ official statewide marketing program that connects consumers with locally produced goods across North Carolina through branding and promotional efforts (Got To Be NC). The initiative aims to strengthen local agricultural economies by increasing access for consumers seeking products grown or made within state lines.
