Berkshire/Kurobuta

Berkshires were first discovered 300 years ago. Noted for their size and eating quality they were a favorite of Englishmen and the Royals and Asian Emperors. They were first imported to the U.S. in 1823. The American Berkshire Association was established in 1875 and have always maintained a ‘closed’ book.In Japan the product is known as ‘Kurobuta’.

In 2000 the MAFF required any product labeled as ‘Kurobuta’ to be certified 100% Berkshire. In 2007 the regulation was further updated. Kurobuta pork must be certified by a foreign breed association or foreign government and Country of Origin Labeling (COOL) is required. Broadleaf Berkshire and Kurobuta pork meets all federal and international requirements.