Visiting Thompson Farms: The Story Behind Our Non-GMO Pork Lard

At Sweet Myrtle Bakery, every ingredient we use has a purpose—and a story. One of the most meaningful ingredients in our kitchen is the pasture-raised, non-GMO pork lard we source directly from Thompson Farms in Dixie, Georgia. It’s a key part of what makes our signature Sourdough Flour Tortillas and flaky, nostalgic Biscochitos so special.

We recently had the opportunity to visit the farm and were warmly welcomed by Andrew Thompson, the owner, and his sister Donna Storey. Their hospitality and transparency gave us a deeper appreciation for the thoughtful work that goes into every step of their process.

At Thompson Farms, pigs are raised the way nature intended—on pasture, with access to fresh air, sunshine, and space to roam. They’re never given antibiotics, added hormones, or GMO feed. This level of care and respect for the animals translates directly into the quality of their lard: clean, pure, and packed with natural flavor.

Why we use it

Pasture-raised lard is a time-honored ingredient in Southern baking—and for good reason. It creates unbelievably tender tortillas and gives our biscochitos their rich, melt-in-your-mouth texture. But more than that, it’s a clean, nutrient-dense fat, naturally rich in monounsaturated fats and vitamin D.

The Benefits of Clean Ingredients

Unlike hydrogenated shortenings or overly processed oils, high-quality lard is a wholesome fat with a real nutritional profile. When it comes from pasture-raised pigs, it’s not just good for baking—it’s good for your body. We proudly use it in our recipes to bring you baked goods that are both delicious and grounded in tradition.

As proud members of the Georgia Grown community, we’re committed to sourcing locally and building partnerships with farmers who share our vision of honest, responsible food.

🎥 Take a peek at our farm visit: Watch the video

We’re truly grateful to Andrew and Donna for taking the time to walk us through the farm and for their dedication to raising animals with care. Their work allows us to bake with ingredients that not only taste incredible but also reflect the values we hold dear.

Stay sweet,

The Sweet Myrtle Bakery Team