Jamon — Buy

: Known as the "everyday hero," this ham comes from white pig breeds like Landrace or Duroc. It is cured in the mountains ( sierra ) and offers a salty, leaner profile that is more affordable for daily consumption. Decoding the Labels: The Quality Tiers

How to Buy Jamón Ibérico: What to Look for and Where to Get It

: Indicates 75% or 50% Ibérico crossbred pigs that were also acorn-fed and free-range. buy jamon

: Free-range pigs fed a mixture of acorns and grain.

If you are buying Jamón Ibérico, look for the official color-coded tags that indicate the pig's diet and purity of breed. : Known as the "everyday hero," this ham

: Farm-raised pigs fed exclusively on grain. Why "Bellota" Matters

: The "crown jewel" of Spanish charcuterie. It must come from black Iberian pigs, a rare breed native to the Iberian Peninsula. These pigs have a unique genetic ability to store fat within their muscles, creating a marbled texture that melts at room temperature. : Free-range pigs fed a mixture of acorns and grain

When you set out to buy jamón, you will encounter two primary categories based on the breed of the pig.