71. Why Is Pig Milk the One Milk We Don’t Drink?

In this episode of No Stupid Questions, hosts Stephen Dubner and Angela Duckworth tackle a curious inquiry from an anonymous listener: why don't humans drink pig milk, despite pigs being abundant and domesticated? The conversation explores the historical, biological, and cultural reasons behind milk consumption, noting that dairy use is relatively recent in human history and varies widely across regions. While many animals—cows, goats, camels, reindeer, and even horses—have been milked, pigs are notably excluded. The hosts explain that pig milk is difficult to harvest due to sows' aggressive, skittish nature during lactation, and that pig milk is reportedly watery and gamey. A rare 2015 attempt to make pig cheese in the Netherlands sold for $2,300 per kilogram, but the cheese was described as chalky and salty. The episode also touches on broader themes: how our food preferences are shaped by culture and biology, the role of lactose tolerance, and the ethical and religious implications of using pig-derived medical products—such as heart valves—despite religious prohibitions. The hosts reflect on the value of questioning the unasked questions, celebrating the listener’s curiosity. In a follow-up, they discuss foods that seem gross but are personally beloved, including gefilte fish, chopped liver, and herring, highlighting how cultural background shapes taste and acceptance of 'disgusting' foods.