wHAT IS BERKSHIRE PORK?

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Berkshire pork, also known as Kurobuta or “black hog” in Japanese, is prized for its rich, tender, and juicy flavor that sets it apart from standard pork. Like American Wagyu cattle, Berkshire hogs are genetically predisposed to exceptional marbling, creating a unique and luxurious taste experience.

Kurobuta pork has a deeper reddish hue than conventional pork, reflecting its higher pH and superior fat content. Raised in humane conditions with carefully monitored diets, Berkshire pork avoids the factory-farmed methods common in commoditized pork production. This combination of genetics, ethical care, and tradition produces a premium pork celebrated for its unmatched flavor, tenderness, and quality—similar to the luxurious qualities of American Wagyu beef

Berkshire hogs have been raised in Berkshire County, England, for over 400 years and are celebrated for their distinctive black color and richly hued flesh. As a heritage breed, they were bred for exceptional flavor and tenderness, much like how heirloom tomatoes are valued for their taste rather than speed or commercial production.

Similar to the story of Wagyu cattle, Berkshire pigs were imported to Japan in the 1800s at the end of its isolationist period and renamed Kurobuta. Raised on the Japanese island of Kyushu, Kurobuta became celebrated for its superior juiciness and rich flavor among fine diners throughout the 20th century. By the 1950s, Berkshire hogs had made their way to U.S. farms and had become a symbol of quality. However, the post-World War II shift toward industrialized meat production led to a sharp decline in their numbers.

Our affiliates at Towson Farms, along with numerous small family farms across the country, are committed to preserving the genetics and heritage of this historic breed. Much like T&K Wagyu, Towson Farms emphasizes sustainable farming practices that honor the pioneering American visionaries responsible for the resurgence of Wagyu. Their dedication ensures that Kurobuta pork maintains its superior quality and traditional standards—offering a perfect complement to our top-tier beef selections.