Unique breed
Ibérico Ham is a one-of-a-kind product in the world, not only because it comes acorn-fed pigs raised freely in the Dehesa—an unmatched natural setting exclusive to the Iberian Peninsula— but also because the Ibérico pig breed is also UNIQUE.
The Ibérico pig breed is the cornerstone of a lifestyle centered on Ibérico Hams. It is linked to the Mediterranean diet, its people, its rural environment and the ancient practices that are part of European tradition and culture.
The breed and diet of the pigs are the main criteria for the classification of Ibérico Ham. Knowing the pig´s breed type is essential for fully grasping the different categories of Iberian ham available in the market. Depending on the crossbreeding that has occurred, we can find animals:
– 100% Ibérico Breed: Both the pig’s mother and father are 100% Ibérico, registered in the Pedigree Book.
– 75% Ibérico Breed: The mother is 100% Ibérico, registered in the Pedigree Book, while the father is 50% Ibérico.
– 50% Ibérico Breed: The mother is 100% Ibérico and the father is of the Duroc breed, with both registered in the corresponding Pedigree Book.
