How are pigs classified for marketing in the United States?

In the context of livestock farming, pigs are classified based on their weight as they progress toward maturity. These classifications help producers manage growth and determine when animals are ready for market:1

• Growing pigs: Animals weighing between approximately 18 and 57 kg (40 and 125 pounds).1
• Finishing pigs: Animals weighing between approximately 57 and 100 kg (125 and 220 pounds).1
• Hogs or market pigs: Animals weighing more than 100 kg (approximately 220 pounds) that are considered ready for butchering.1

Hogs are typically brought to market at five to six months of age. Additionally, male pigs intended for market are generally castrated shortly after birth to prevent an off-flavor in the meat; these castrated males are specifically referred to as barrows.1