Pork. It’s a staple on dinner tables across the globe. When you think about eating pork, you might think about an unfortunate encounter with dry, inedible hockey pucks of overcooked meat. If this is you, consider the tender, juicy Berkshire breed instead. When it comes to exceptional pork, Berkshire, also known as Kurobuta pork, stands out as a true delicacy. Berkshire pigs, raised by dedicated small farmers adhering to rigorous standards, produce some of the most flavorful and tender pork you’ll ever experience. So, what sets Berkshire pork apart from the rest?

Heritage and History

Berkshire pork is derived from a heritage breed of pig that was originally found in the Shire of the Berks in England. Known for its distinctive dark-colored skin, well-marbled meat, and succulent flavor, Berkshire pork has a rich history dating back centuries. The breed was initially favored by the English royalty for its exceptional taste and tenderness, and these qualities have stood the test of time.

In fact, the Berkshire breed was so popular in the UK that Japan began importing the breed from England in the early 1800s. Known in Japan as Kurobuta pork, which translates literally to ‘Black Pig', Berkshire remains one of the most popular breeds of pork in the country today, known for its supreme quality.

Berkshire pork first arrived in the USA around 1823, exported from England by ship. The breed became extremely popular during the 19th century and was enjoyed all across the country. Today, Berkshire pork is raised all around the United States on mostly small family farms. This is a true heritage breed with pedigrees to match, still enjoyed today for its incredible flavor and tender texture.

Naturally Exceptional

When it comes to Berkshire pork, natural is the way to go. Berkshire pigs are raised following strict rules of natural rearing, ensuring they’re provided with the healthiest and most natural environment possible. This means that all Berkshire hogs are raised on uniform feed and are never given antibiotics or growth hormones. This is all-natural meat from a breed that has never been genetically modified - consistently flavorful and delicious every time.

Humane Heritage

At the heart of Berkshire pork production is the humane treatment of the pigs. Farmers who raise Berkshire pigs adhere to strict guidelines that prioritize the well-being of the animals:

• Spacious living conditions

  Berkshire pigs enjoy spacious and clean living spaces that allow them to roam freely. Unlike crowded industrial farms, Berkshire pigs have ample room to move, play, and express natural behaviors.

• Balanced diet

  Berkshire pigs are fed a wholesome diet of nutritious grains, designed to deliver the ideal blend of vitamins and nutrients to the pigs. In return, the resulting meat is exceptionally tender and juicy, with marbling running throughout.

• Access to fresh air and natural light

  Fresh air and natural light are essential for the pigs’ physical and mental health. Berkshire pigs are raised in open barns and have access to outdoor spaces where they can bask in the sunlight and enjoy the benefits of a natural environment.

• Stress-free environment

  Stress has a significant impact on the quality of pork. Berkshire pigs are raised in a stress-free environment, free from the confinement and harsh conditions often found in industrial farming operations.

Dedicated Farmers, Incredible Pork

Berkshire pork is the result of the dedication and passion of farmers who genuinely care about the well-being of their animals. These farmers understand that happy, healthy pigs yield superior meat, and they go above and beyond to ensure that their pigs receive the best possible care.

Although the Berkshire breed requires more feed and grows more slowly than conventional breeds, raising these unique pigs is worth the time, money, and effort it takes to raise them from start to finish.

The Berkshire Pork Experience

When it comes to taste, Berkshire pork is in a league of its own. Renowned chefs and culinary experts praise Berkshire pork for its exceptional flavor and texture. The meat itself is tender, juicy, and naturally sweet.

Interested in cooking Berkshire pork but not sure where to start? Berkshire can be cooked just like any other breed of pork, whether you enjoy your pork sauteed, roasted, grilled, or fried. Because of its marbling, Berkshire remains succulent and flavorful, even when cooked at high temperatures. From gourmet restaurants to home kitchens, Berkshire remains a top choice for chefs and home cooks alike.

Berkshire Pork: A Cut Above Conventional

In the world of pork, Berkshire stands out for its incredible quality, taste, texture, and the ethical farming practices employed to produce it. From the farm to the plate, Berkshire pays homage to centuries-worth of heritage in raising naturally tender, flavorful pork. Give Berkshire a try, and soon you’ll be in hog heaven too!