"Do you know the difference between Iberico pork and pork belly? These two meats are very different in breed, breeding method, taste, and even price. Iberico pork is known as a premium meat that boasts its own unique flavor as it is raised in the wild and eats mainly acorns. On the other hand, pork belly is a fast-growing and inexpensive pork that many people enjoy on a daily basis. So what are the differences between these two meats and why Iberico pork has become a premium food?"
1. Characteristics of Iberico pork
Iberico pork is differentiated from other pigs from its appearance. It is generally black, has pointy ears, is relatively small in body size, and has a lot of muscle. However, the most important thing is how it is raised. Iberico pigs are mostly raised in the wild, and their diet consists mainly of acorns, grass, and in some regions, olives, and various other natural ingredients. The meat of Iberico pigs raised this way has a deep and rich flavor.
2. Breeding Environment
Iberian pigs graze in the hills of southern Spain, and grow up freely searching for acorns. They have a special dietary habit of growing up eating only acorns called 'Bellota', and the fat from the acorns deepens the flavor of the meat. These acorns are considered the best food ingredient from the region where Iberian pigs grow, and when the pigs eat the acorns, the fat seeps into the meat, creating a unique flavor. This process is the key factor that determines the flavor of Iberian ham.
3. Grades of Iberian pigs
Iberian pigs are divided into several grades depending on the acorns they eat and the environment in which they grow. The highest grade, 'Bellota', refers to ham from Iberian pigs that grow up eating only acorns, and there are also 'Lobo' (mixed diet) and 'Rama' (dense diet) grades. Since the taste and texture of the ham varies depending on the grade, this factor is very important when evaluating the quality of Iberian pigs.
Iberico Pork vs. Samgyeopsal
Iberico and samgyeopsal are both part of pork, but the difference is huge. To understand the difference, you need to understand the basics of pig breeds, breeding methods, and cuts.
1. Difference in pig breeds
Iberico is meat from the "Iberico pig," a special breed native to Spain. Iberico pigs are small pigs with a distinctive black skin and thin legs, and they are often raised in the wild, grazing.
On the other hand, samgyeopsal is meat from the "white pig," the most commonly consumed breed of pig in Korea. These pigs are usually raised industrially, grow quickly, and boast a large body.
2. Difference in breeding methods
Iberico pigs grow in a natural environment, and they mainly eat acorns. Because of this, they have a lot of fat, and that fat plays an important role in determining the taste of the meat. These pigs are raised only on acorns called "bellota," and produce the highest quality Iberico ham. Samgyeopsal is bred to grow quickly and is mainly fed feed or grain. This breeding method allows meat to be obtained in a relatively short period of time, so the production cycle is faster than Iberico and the price is relatively cheaper.
3. Characteristics and taste differences in meat
Iberico boasts a deep flavor, rich taste, and soft texture thanks to acorns. In particular, the fat in the meat is naturally broken down, allowing you to taste rich and savory flavors. The color of the meat is also darker than regular pork.
Samgyeopsal has a relatively thick layer of fat and is characterized by a salty and savory taste. When grilled, the fat melts and the meat becomes tender, and when grilled on a grill, the flavor becomes even stronger.
4. Differences in cuts
Iberico is mainly produced from highquality cuts such as ham or loin (sirloin), and its flavor is maximized -in the part where the meat and fat are mixed. The meat of Iberico pigs has different flavors depending on the cut. Samgyeopsal is meat from the belly of a pig, and you can enjoy its unique flavor and texture when grilled because it has layers of fat and lean meat.
5. Price difference
Iberico pork is quite expensive because it is raised in a special way and has excellent quality. In particular, the "Bellota" grade can cost thousands of dollars.
Samgyeopsal is generally inexpensive and can be purchased at a relatively reasonable price because it is mass-produced.
Price and consumer awareness of Iberico pork
The perception of Iberico pork in Korea has changed considerably in recent years. In particular, as interest in highquality food has increased, awareness of Iberico pork and Iberico ham has also spread more than- before. However, it is still considered a high-quality product with different characteristics from general pork.
1. Positioning as a high-quality food
Iberico pork is mainly perceived as a high-quality food. In particular, Iberico ham is a menu that is often found in people traveling to Spain or in high-end restaurants, so it is especially popular among people looking for expensive high-quality food. Consumers who seek out Iberico are those who appreciate its depth and sophistication.
2. Popularity in high-end restaurants and hotels
In recent years, Iberico pork and Iberico ham have become ingredients that frequently appear in high-end restaurants. In particular, Iberico ham is a high-quality food ingredient imported directly from Spain, and is often served as a menu to enjoy with wine in well-known restaurants or hotels. Some famous restaurants use the name “Iberico” alone to convey a sense of luxury, and it is often used as a dinner course or appetizer.
3. Price perception
Iberico pork and Iberico ham are very expensive. This leads some consumers to think that it is “too expensive meat.” In fact, since the price is considerably higher than that of regular pork or pork belly, consumers who consider value for money may still be concerned about “cost-effectiveness.” In particular, Iberico pork is a relatively high-quality breed, and meat from pigs raised on acorns is more expensive.
4. Differences in taste and culture
The taste of Iberico pork is rich and savory, but this may not suit the taste of Koreans. Koreans tend to prefer salty and oily tastes, so many are accustomed to meats that are fatty and crispy, like pork belly. Although Iberico pork has oily parts, it has a soft and savory taste that is different from pork belly, so there may be some cultural differences in enjoying it.
5. Popularization of Iberico
Recently, Iberico pork is sold in large marts and online shopping malls, making it more accessible than before. In particular, Iberico pork belly and Iberico pork neck are sold in forms that consumers can easily access, and they can enjoy a luxurious taste at home. This approach is greatly helping to spread public awareness.
6. Influence of social media and influencers
As social media and influencers uploaded content about Iberico pork, awareness of it spread quickly. As content featuring Iberico pork increases in restaurant tours, YouTube reviews, and Instagram photos, the desire to enjoy high-quality food is growing among the younger generation. In particular, Iberico ham has become a content in itself and is very popular on Instagram.