The farmer had spent years raising pigs and took pride in keeping them healthy. He fed them ordinary kitchen scraps, fresh vegetables, and whatever else he could reasonably provide. One afternoon, however, an official arrived at the farm, inspected the animals, and frowned at their food. According to him, the farmer was violating regulations. The scraps were unsuitable, and a fine was issued. The farmer did not want trouble, so he immediately changed the pigs’ diet. He bought expensive vegetables, fresh grains, and carefully selected feed. It cost considerably more, but he followed the instructions exactly. For several days, everything seemed peaceful. The pigs were healthy, well fed, and perfectly content. The farmer began thinking that perhaps the problem had finally been solved.

Then, just as he was getting used to the new routine, another official appeared at the gate.

The inspector examined the pigs, looked at their expensive meals, and shook his head. “This is unacceptable,” he announced. “You are feeding them far too well.” The farmer stared at him in disbelief. He had followed the previous official’s instructions exactly. Yet another fine was already being written. Desperate for an answer, he asked what he was actually supposed to feed his pigs. The inspector began explaining the rules, but the explanation only made the situation more confusing.