What is a field bait?

What is a field bait ham?

Field bait ham is not necessarily a 100% Iberian ham. In particular, to be defined as field bait ham, the pig must have at least 50% purity of Iberian breed.

However, in addition to the breed, there are other characteristics that make this ham so valuable: first of all, nutrition and breeding. Pigs should be free, move freely and have a variable diet.

Field bait ham: features

The feeding of the Iberian pig is the most important feature that most gives the ham those qualities of flavor and texture that make it so special.

Iberian pigs feed part of their lives with feed, cereals and legumes and another part is left free to graze in a controlled environment. The diet and physical exercise that pigs perform during grazing make their meat low in fat. Fat is concentrated in muscle fibers, which is why field bait ham is especially tender and has that unmistakable flavor.

Types of field bait ham

Different types of field bait ham are identified, first of all, through the purity of the animal.

The purest are 100% Iberian pigs, which come from parents and progenitors who maintain a line of racial purity. The ham of these pigs is also known as the pata negra ham.

If the pig comes from a single purebred parent (usually the mother), then its meat has a purity of 50% iberian breed.

On the other hand, when a pig comes from a 100% Iberian parent (usually the mother) and another 50% purebred, then its meat is defined as 75% Iberian breed.

In addition to the breed, the purity and quality of the meat is also defined through other criteria, such as the Controlled Designation of Origin (PDO): Spain is famous for the PDO Guijuelo, the PDO Los Pedroches and the PDO Dehesa de Extremadura.

Field bait ham: how to distinguish it when buying it?

Identifying field bait ham at the time of purchase is easier than you think. First of all, the standard states that the seals of field bait hams must be green, regardless of the percentage of purity.

The 100% Iberian hams are distinguished by incorporating a vitola that bears this wording: 100% Iberian Field Bait. This same wording must also be indicated on the seal. The color of the vitola is not subject to any legislation.

Conclusion

With this short guide you will be able not only to distinguish the different degrees of quality of field bait ham at the time of purchase, but also to appreciate all its qualities. Now you know all the processing behind the quality of these hams with their unique properties and taste!