From 2009 all iberico hams that are imported from Spain to US shores will be without their trademark black hoof or "pata negra". A real shame as it makes the "complete" ham. Regulations though are regulations and this only applies to the United States laid down by the USDA. Iberico hams shipped within the EU are NOT effected
So, for EU customers who savour the odd Iberian speciality they can still (and continue to) buy the complete leg to present the perfect centre piece - good news.
Quality Iberian hams are numbered and therefore traceable back to the animal from which the ham came from (in most cases at least 24 months earlier) which makes the new overseas law somewhat belated? Full clarification to follow for our USA readers.
Iberico hams available to the EU
Coming early January 2009: two new Iberian legs from Orce Serrano Hams, Jamon Recebo & Paleta Recebo. What is recebo? This means that the Iberian pigs have also been fed a compound feed and not solely on acorns or "bellotas" These two new exclusive hams are the beginning of a speciality range (bellota & reservas to follow) from our breeder in the town of Guadix, Andalucia who has secured the one of the finest breeds of Iberian pig over the last few years - no mean feat. A few months ago we saw the livestock in situ and the operation was nothing short of clean, strictly regulated and highly impressive.
More details to follow.
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2 comments:
Hey Happy New Year...I come by to have a feast and I'm glad I did :)
Thanks Shionge, all the best to you for 2009
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