Designation of Origin

Designations of origin for Iberian ham:

In Spain, there are four Protected Designations of Origin (PDO) for Iberian ham. These designations certify and regulate the quality of the product, ensuring that it complies with strict requirements regarding origin, breeding, feeding, and production.

The four PDOs for Iberian ham are:

PDO Guijuelo: The production area is mainly located in the region of Guijuelo (Salamanca), although the pigs can be reared in several autonomous communities. Its cold, dry winters favor a slower curing process, which produces a ham with a sweet and mild flavor. The Regulatory Council supervises and guarantees even the sliced products of the PDO.

Jabugo PDO: This is produced in the mountains of Huelva, with Jabugo as the most representative municipality. The unique climate of this area, with specific microclimates, is essential for the curing of Iberian ham. The term “Jabugo ham” has gained great prestige and refers to high-quality Iberian ham.

PDO Dehesa de Extremadura: This PDO covers Iberian hams and shoulders from pigs reared in the Extremadura pastures. The acorn-based diet and natural grazing during the montanera, together with the traditional production process, ensure superior quality.

PDO Los Pedroches: This PDO protects hams and shoulders from the province of Córdoba, produced in the Los Pedroches Valley. Production, from the birth of the pigs to the end of the process, must take place in this territory, which is distinguished by its close relationship with Iberian production.