Berkshire pork comes from a heritage breed of pig that originated in the English county of Berkshire, for which it is named. It is a black pig with six white markings, including four white socks, a white splash on the snout, and a white tip to the tail. The breed was modified in the late eighteenth and early nineteenth centuries by cross-breeding with small black pigs imported from Asia. The American Berkshire Association, established in 1875, was the first breed society for a pig breed.
Berkshire pork is highly regarded for its distinctive porky flavor and succulent taste. The meat from Berkshire hogs is redder than conventional pork, somewhat sweeter, and laced with intramuscular fat, which makes it more tender and juicy. It is often referred to as "the wagyu of pork" due to its high quality. Berkshire pork is a premium product and is often sold at a higher price than regular pork.
