Ibérico Pork meat has an incredibly smooth, nutty flavor that puts it above any other pork you’ve ever had. Maybe you’re looking to get into some of this good living, but now you’re wondering just how much good living you can handle.
Health Benefits of Iberico Pork
Luckily, Iberico pork is quite healthy and good for you! Acorn-fed Iberico pigs are left to walk and graze, developing natural muscle along with fat. This type of meat is not only a delicacy but also has some impressive health benefits:
- Lowers Cholesterol and Triglycerides: The uniqueness of Iberico lies within those layers of fat: a fat that’s healthy, full of oleic acid, which is known for lowering bad cholesterol and increases the good kind.
- Source of Vitamins: Iberico meat is also high in beneficial nutrients like calcium, protein, sodium, and even a wealth of vitamins B – including the super healthful B6 and B12, B1 (thiamine), and B2 (niacin). These vitamins support appetite regulation, a healthy nervous system, and energy levels.
- Source of Minerals: This meat is also an excellent source of minerals, particularly iron, zinc, phosphorus, and potassium. It even contains smaller but valuable amounts of magnesium and selenium, which can have anti-aging properties.
- Rich in Antioxidants: Scientific research indicates that eating acorn-fed Iberico ham increases antioxidant levels in the body. These antioxidants come from the natural diet of grass and acorns that the pigs consume, which helps lower the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
This is a superb ingredient, blessed both by its inherent nature and the conditions it’s reared in.
Pork Iberico Nutrition
There’s a reason why Ibérico Ham is so delicious: it has quite a bit of fat. The acorn-heavy diet the pork receives gives the meat its delicious flavor, but also fattens them up.
Luckily, it is monosaturated fat (as opposed to trans-unsaturated fat, or trans-fat), which is a part of any healthy diet and has shown to have significant health benefits when consumed in moderation.
Role In Diets
Need more proof? Here's some hard science for you: a recent study from the Ramon y Cajal Hospital of Madrid, published in The Journal of Nutrition Health and Aging concluded that a diet of 1.7 ounces a day of Ibérico Ham resulted in noticeable improvements in cardiovascular health. A nutritional analysis performed by the University of Extremadura also praised the ham’s “high protein content” and its usefulness as a source of iron, potassium, and phosphorous.
Adding Iberico ham to your diet could offer some big health perks. Research has shown that it can help lower total cholesterol, triglycerides, and even that “bad” LDL cholesterol. Packed with essential amino acids, it’s a great choice if you’re after something low-calorie but full of nutrients. Plus, its protein helps your body absorb important minerals like iron, which is great for kids, seniors, or anyone recovering from illness.
At around 100 calories for a 30-gram serving, it’s easy to fit Iberico ham into a calorie-conscious diet without skimping on flavor.
Keep in mind that Iberico pork does have a higher fat content than other types of pork. While a lot of this fat is considered healthier, it’s still important to enjoy it in moderation as part of a balanced diet. So, even with all its benefits, Iberico pork isn’t something to overindulge in.
Is Iberico Pork Healthier Than Other Types of Pork?
Iberico pork brings something special to the table—its unique nutritional profile sets it apart from other pork breeds. This pork is rich in intramuscular fat, but it’s not just any fat. It’s a well-balanced mix of monounsaturated, polyunsaturated, and saturated fats. That balance matters because it includes more of those “good” fats, like polyunsaturated fats, which play a role in brain health and help manage inflammation.
In comparison, conventional pork typically has more saturated fat and fewer of these healthier fats, which is why it’s often linked to a higher risk of cardiovascular issues. Iberico’s fat profile offers a healthier alternative, making it a flavorful choice you can feel better about.
Just like a premium chocolate or a fine wine, Ibérico Pork in moderation, is likely healthier than many things you have in your fridge right now, especially your store-bought ham!
Of course, this requires that you get your product from reputable sources that follow the industry’s best practices. At Gourmet Food Store we get our Iberico Pork from some of Spain’s most prominent “mataderos”, including Embutidos Fermin, Vallehermoso, and Finca Helechal. With over 50 years in the industry, you can trust that you are getting some of the highest quality pork that Spain can offer.
Ready to try your hand at cooking Iberico Pork? Browse our chef-designed Iberico Pork Recipes!