“Bellota” ham is ham that has been produced from Iberian pigs fed only on acorns during the pasturelands phase.

 

This phase takes place from October to March and during this time the Iberian pigs roam freely through the pasturelands, feeding off their natural resources (acorns and grass). When the pig reaches its maximum weight (some 160 kg), it is killed in order to prepare the products, which in this case, are “bellota” quality products.

 

“Bellota“ ham has a more intense appearance, aroma and taste, with a great variety of nuances, and notes that are reminiscent of the pasturelands and of acorns.

 

We should mention that Iberian pigs feed off acorns only during the pasturelands phase, and are previously fed with grass and natural dry fodder during the “preparation” phase (until they reach a weight of about 100 kg).

 

For this reason it is not correct to say that “bellota” ham is produced from pigs that have eaten “only” acorns during their entire feeding cycle.

 

Feeding only on acorns is completely impossible if done naturally, since the acorns are only found in the pastures from October to March (i.e., during the phase when the Iberian pig is at the “pasturelands” phase).

 

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