DO Iberian Ham

Denominations of Origin (DO) for Iberian ham

Denominations of Origin (DO) for Iberian ham are a system for ensuring the quality and origin of this product. The “DO” stands for “Protected Designation of Origin,” and is an official seal that guarantees that an Iberian ham meets certain standards and has been produced in a specific region, following traditional methods.

This is important for several reasons. First, it acts as a guarantee for the consumer. When you see a ham with a DO, you know it has undergone strict controls regarding the breed of pig, its diet, and the curing process. This means that the product you buy will have specific flavor, aroma, and texture characteristics linked to its origin.

In Spain, there are four Protected Designations of Origin for Iberian ham:

• Dehesa de Extremadura: This pig comes from pigs raised in the extensive pastures of Extremadura. These pigs feed primarily on acorns and grass during the montanera (mountain pasture), the fattening season when acorns are the staple food.
• Guijuelo (Salamanca): The cold, dry climate of this Salamanca region is key to curing these hams. The altitude and climatic conditions allow for a slow process that results in a ham with a milder, sweeter flavor.
• Jabugo (Huelva): Located in the Sierra de Huelva, this DO is characterized by a more humid and mild climate. The pigs also feed on acorns and grass in the dehesa, and the curing process benefits from the area’s unique characteristics, which allow the fat to penetrate well.
• Los Pedroches (Córdoba): This is the newest DO. This area, with its dehesas full of holm oaks, offers an ideal environment for raising Iberian pigs. Hams from Los Pedroches are generally cured more quickly, giving them an intense flavor.

Each DO has its own rules regarding pig raising, feeding, and the ham-making process. These rules are established to protect the uniqueness of each area and ensure quality. For example, the percentage of Iberian breed in the pig (100%, 75%, or 50%) and its diet (acorn-fed, field-fed, or grain-fed) are regulated.

In short, DOs for Iberian ham are not just geographical names. They are a commitment to tradition, quality, and authenticity, seeking to preserve an emblematic product of Spanish gastronomy and offer consumers the assurance that they are purchasing a ham with distinctive characteristics and high value.