Producer Profile – David Wall, The Pork Shop
Producer: David Wall
Business: The Pork Shop, New Glasgow & Denmark
How did you come to work at The Pork Shop?
My family owned a hog farm and they ask me to help operate The Pork Shop should they purchase it. They did and here I am.
What makes The Pork Shop different from other meat producers?
The Pork Shop’s products look better and are better for you. Our products are gluten free, and contain no by-products or filler. We also do not use phosphates to increase the pump or weight of the product, which means our products don’t shrink-up as much when cooked.
What is the most versatile product that The Pork Shop sells?
I think it would have to be sausage. You can BBQ it, fry or bake it. Use it in dishes, soup; you can almost use it any recipe you can think of!
What did you want to be when you were younger?
I didn’t know what I wanted to do. I was trained to operate an industrial kitchen, but I have a long-term care background, as well as a meat cutting diploma.
Where does The Pork Shop source meat from?
We source our meat from the Antigonish Abattoir and Dickie’s Meats in Amherst.
What advice would you give to home cooks about preparing and cooking pork?
Like any meat, don’t overcook it. Pork especially will become tough and dry. Use a thermometer and cook to an internal temperature of 160 F.
In your opinion, what is the best cut of meat?
That would have to be pork tenderloin or a nice rib chop.
What is your favourite pork recipe?
A nice barbecued rib chop with baked potatoes and roasted vegetables.
What is the strangest thing you have ever eaten?
Frog legs. Not too bad
What is the best thing you’ve ever eaten?
A nice apple stuffed pork roast with mashed potatoes, gravy and vegetables.
Other than your own products, what Nova Scotia products do you use most?
I use a lot of fresh Nova Scotian vegetables. And honey, I use honey every day.
How has the meat industry in Nova Scotia changed?
The meat industry has changed in Nova Scotia over the years in the way that there are not very many, hog or beef farmers left anymore.
Why is buying local important?
It helps the local economy and it provides jobs for local people. It’s important to take pride in what’s being produced in your own back yard.