The story of Sullivan Farms began with a simple question Brittany Sullivan asked herself after welcoming her daughter, Kay. What was she feeding her family, and where was that food coming from? At the same time, her husband Bill was deeply connected to the land, the soil, and the idea of working alongside nature rather than against it. Together, those values became the foundation for what would eventually grow into Sullivan Farms.
In 2010, the couple started small, growing vegetables and selling them at the Columbia Farmers Market. Two years later, they added pigs to the mix. The first were Gracie and Gala, followed by a boar, and before long, hog farming became the heart of their operation. What started as a modest family effort quickly turned into something more as word spread and demand grew.
At Sullivan Farms, pigs are raised the old fashioned way, outdoors on pasture where they can roam, root, and behave as pigs naturally do. There are no confinement barns, no antibiotics, and no shortcuts. “Our pigs are raised outside on pasture, which means they get to do what comes naturally to them,” Brittany says. The animals enjoy sunshine, fresh air, and plenty of movement, all of which play a role in the quality of the meat, every single day, across changing seasons and weather conditions.
This kind of approach is part of a larger commitment to regenerative agriculture, a holistic farming method focused on improving soil health, restoring ecosystems, and raising animals in ways that support long term sustainability. For the Sullivans, it means caring for the land just as intentionally as they care for their livestock.
That care shows up on the plate. Pasture raised pigs grow at a slower pace, developing richer flavor, deeper color, and beautiful marbling. “Our pork is not the other white meat, it is deeper in color with gorgeous marbling.” The pork is noticeably different from conventional options, with a darker pink hue and a taste that surprises first time customers.
For Brittany, raising animals with integrity is about trust. Trust in their farming methods, trust with their customers, and trust that doing things the right way will always matter more than doing things the easy way.
The work is intentional and ongoing, shaped by daily decisions and long hours outdoors. “It didn’t happen overnight,” Brittany says. Each season builds on the last, reinforcing a belief that meaningful farming is measured over time, not shortcuts.
As their herd grew, so did their customer base. Shoppers who first met the Sullivans at the farmers market might start with bacon, return the next week for pork chops, and eventually commit to buying a whole hog.
In the early years, pigs were butchered just twice a year. That soon became four times annually, and today, Sullivan Farms processes hogs twice a month, every month. Along the way, they have earned the loyalty of families, chefs, and food lovers across Missouri who value transparency and quality.
Beyond taste, customers are drawn to the connection. Buying from Sullivan Farms means knowing the people behind the food. It means asking questions, visiting the farm, and watching children play with piglets while learning where their meals begin. Those moments stick with people and turn a simple purchase into something more personal.
For Brittany and Bill, that connection is everything. Farming is not just about producing meat, but about building relationships rooted in honesty and shared values. It is about opening the gates, sharing the story, and inviting families to be part of something meaningful.
Sullivan Farms offers a variety of ways for families to bring pasture raised pork into their homes. Their most popular options are whole and half hogs, which provide the best value and allow customers to customize cuts based on their family’s preferences. Whether a household prefers sausage over pork steaks or wants a little of everything, the process is simple and approachable, with guidance from a trusted local processor.
For those looking for smaller quantities, Sullivan Farms also offers curated meat bundles, breakfast packages, and grill ready selections. Their monthly Pork Box subscription has become a favorite for busy families and individuals who enjoy trying new cuts while still receiving staple favorites. Each box includes ten to twelve pounds of pork and is available for pickup at the Columbia Farmers Market on the second Saturday of every month.
As interest in local food continues to grow, Brittany believes families are becoming more intentional about what they eat and who they buy from. They want food they trust, food that nourishes their families, and a relationship with the people producing it.
The most rewarding part of the journey, Brittany says, is watching the long term impact. Healthier soil. Healthier animals. And customers who once fed their children Sullivan Farms pork, only to see those children grow up, start families of their own, and return as parents themselves, choosing the same food for their kids.
Looking ahead, the Sullivans remain focused on making thoughtful improvements, caring for their land, and continuing to serve Mid Missouri and beyond with integrity. “Once people notice the flavor, there is no going back.” One pasture raised chop at a time, they are proving that local farming done right can create something lasting.
Sullivan Farms
779 County Road 102 • Fayette, MO 65248
(660) 248-3298 • bsullivan95@yahoo.com
“Families want food they can trust and farmers they can know.”