We want to talk about the classification of Iberian ham, as it is one of the most highly valued gastronomic products in Spain and around the world. Its flavor, texture, and production process make it a true delicacy. However, when it comes to buying it, many people have doubts about its types, differences, and formats.
In this article, we explain what Iberian ham is, how it is classified according to the animal’s diet and breeding, and which formats you can choose in our online store. In addition, we include real examples of our products to help you make the best decision.
What is Iberian ham?
Iberian ham is a product obtained from the hind legs of the Iberian pig, a native breed of the Iberian Peninsula. This type of pig is characterized by its ability to infiltrate fat into the muscle, resulting in juicy, aromatic meat with a unique flavor.
The production process of Iberian ham includes:
- Salting
- Washing
- Resting
- Curing (which can last between 24 and 48 months or more)
But what really makes the difference between one ham and another is the pig’s diet and how it is raised.
Classification of Iberian ham by type
To properly classify Iberian ham, we must look at the different types that exist. There are three main types of Iberian ham, defined by the animal’s diet and environment:
- Acorn-fed Iberian ham (Jamón Ibérico de Bellota)
- Free-range fodder-fed Iberian ham (Jamón Ibérico de Cebo de Campo)
- Fodder-fed Iberian ham (Jamón Ibérico de Cebo)
Acorn-fed Iberian ham (Jamón Ibérico de Bellota)
Acorn-fed Iberian ham is the highest quality within the classification.
Main characteristics:
- Comes from pigs raised freely in the “dehesa” (oak pastureland)
- Diet based on acorns and natural grasses
- High fat infiltration
- Intense, complex, and slightly sweet flavor
- Very juicy texture
During the montanera (the season when acorns fall), pigs can walk many kilometers per day, which improves the quality of the meat.
Which acorn-fed Iberian hams do we offer on our website?
1. 50% Iberian Acorn-fed Ham:
Product details (whole piece):
- Weight: 7.5 kg
- Ingredients: 75% Iberian-breed acorn-fed ham, salt, preservatives (E-252; E-250)
- Format: Black cotton cover
- Brand: Nieto Martín
-
Types:
Other varieties or options:
2. 75% Iberian Acorn-fed Ham:
Product details (whole piece):
- Weight: 7.5 kg
- Ingredients: 75% Iberian-breed acorn-fed ham, salt, preservatives (E-252; E-250)
- Format: Black cotton cover
- Brand: Nieto Martín
Types:
Other varieties or options:
3. 100% Iberian Acorn-fed Ham:
Product details (whole piece):
- Weight: 7.5 kg
- Ingredients: Pork ham and sea salt
- Format: Black cotton cover
- Brands: Jamones de Juviles, 5 Jotas, Nieto Martín, Sánchez Romero Carvajal, and Cañafina
Whole hams:
- 100% Iberian Acorn-fed Ham (whole piece) – Juviles
- 100% Iberian Acorn-fed Ham (whole piece, organic) – Juviles
- 100% Iberian Acorn-fed Ham (whole piece) – Nieto Martín
- 100% Iberian Acorn-fed Ham (whole piece) – 5 Jotas
- 100% Iberian Acorn-fed Ham (whole piece) – Sanchez Romero Carvajal
Other varieties:
Hand-carved hams:
- 100% Iberian Acorn-fed Ham, hand-carved – Nieto Martín
- 100% Iberian Acorn-fed Ham, hand-carved – Cañafina
Sliced hams:
- 100% Iberian Acorn-fed Ham, sliced – Sánchez Romero Carvajal
- 100% Iberian Acorn-fed Ham, hand-carved – 5 Jotas
Free-Range Fodder-Fed Iberian Ham (Jamón Ibérico de Cebo de Campo)
Free-range fodder-fed Iberian ham is a mid-range option that combines quality and price.
Main characteristics:
- Pigs raised in the countryside or in spacious environments
- Mixed diet: natural feed + resources from the field
- Good balance between flavor and texture
- Less fat infiltration than acorn-fed ham, but still very flavorful
Which free-range fodder-fed Iberian hams do we offer on our website?
50% Iberian Cebo de Campo Ham
Product details (whole piece):
- Weight: 9 kg (approximately)
- Ingredients: Pork ham and sea salt
- Format: Black cotton cover
- Brands: Jamones de Juviles, Nieto Martín, and Estirpe Negra
Whole hams:
- 50% Iberian Cebo de Campo Ham (whole piece) – Jamones Juviles
- 50% Iberian Cebo de Campo Ham (whole piece) – Nieto Martín
Hand-carved ham:
100% Iberian Cebo de Campo Ham
Product details (whole piece):
Fodder-Fed Iberian Ham (Jamón Ibérico de Cebo)
Fodder-fed Iberian ham is the most affordable and widely consumed option.
Main characteristics:
- Pigs raised on farms
- Diet based on feed
- Milder flavor
- Lower fat infiltration
- Excellent value for money
Which fodder-fed Iberian hams do we offer on our website?
50% Iberian Cebo Ham
Product details (whole piece):
- Weight: 9 kg (approximately)
- Ingredients: Pork ham and sea salt
- Format: Black cotton cover
- Brands: Jamones de Juviles, Nieto Martín, and Estirpe Negra
Whole hams:
Hand-carved hams:
Sliced hams:
Iberian Ham Formats: Classification to Help You Choose How to Buy It
In addition to the type of ham, another key factor is the format in which it is presented. For this reason, we want to make this distinction to better understand the classification of Iberian ham.
In our store, we offer three main formats adapted to different needs.
Whole Iberian Ham (Jamón ibérico en pieza)
Buying a whole ham is the most traditional option.
Advantages:
- Better preserves all its properties
- Authentic carving experience
- Longer shelf life
- Better value for money per kilo
Who is it ideal for?
- Ham lovers
- Families or frequent consumption
- Events or celebrations
Hand-Carved Iberian Ham (Jamón ibérico cortado a cuchillo)
Hand carving is a true art and makes a big difference in the gastronomic experience.
Advantages:
- Thinner and more uniform slices
- Better texture and flavor
- Gourmet presentation
Who is it ideal for?
- Gifts
- Special events
- People who want top quality without carving the ham themselves
Sliced Iberian Ham (Jamón ibérico loncheado)
The sliced format is the most practical and convenient.
Advantages:
- Ready to eat
- Easy to store
- Ideal for everyday use
- Perfect for shipping or gifting
Who is it ideal for?
- People with little time
- Individual consumption or small portions
- Tastings or snacking
Tips for Storing Iberian Ham
To keep your ham in perfect condition:
Whole ham:
- Store in a cool, dry place
- Cover the cut area with fat or a cloth
Sliced or hand-carved ham:
- Keep refrigerated
- Take it out 20 minutes before serving
Iberian ham is an exceptional product that offers different options depending on both type and format. Understanding the difference between acorn-fed, free-range fodder-fed, and fodder-fed ham—as well as choosing between whole, hand-carved, or sliced formats—will allow you to fully enjoy this delicacy.
In our online store, you will find a carefully selected range of Iberian hams in all these formats, adapted to every need and occasion.