Production of Parma and San Daniele ham : Specifications for heavy pig production

To obtain high quality processed pig products, heavy pig production in Italy is subjected to rules fixed by a Consortia.Animals are 9 months old at least at slaughter and the corresponding live weight is 160 kg. Breeds are limited essentially to Italian Large White and Landrace, selected on specific parameters, and their crosses. In order to reduce the seasoning losses, a sufficient fat cover is required which content in linoleic acid must be lower than 15 g/kg. In order to meet the Corsortia’s rules (age and body weight at slaughter, fat quality), feeding strategy needs to be adapted.