The Porc Negre Mallorquí
The Mallorcan black pig (Porc Negre Mallorquí) is a native porcine breed from the island of Mallorca, perfectly adapted to the Mediterranean climate and environment through centuries of natural selection.
It is characterised by its dark coat, robust build and ability to be raised in free-range or semi-free-range conditions, feeding on the natural resources of the Mallorcan countryside: figs, carob, acorns, cereals and garden scraps.
This natural diet and slow growth give its meat an exceptional fat marbling, with a fatty acid profile that translates into a sobrasada of creamier texture, more complex flavour and greater curing capacity.
A recovered breed
In the mid-20th century, the arrival of fast-growing industrial pig breeds brought the Mallorcan black pig to the brink of extinction. Fortunately, a group of committed farmers and Balearic institutions launched recovery programmes that have preserved this unique breed.
Today, the Porc Negre Mallorquí has a genealogical registry and a conservation programme that guarantee the genetic purity of the breed. Registered animals are identified and monitored, ensuring complete traceability from farm to finished product.
Black Pig Sobrasada
The Sobrasada de Mallorca de Cerdo Negro (Black Pig Sobrasada from Mallorca) has its own Protected Geographical Indication, separate from the standard Sobrasada de Mallorca. It is the most exclusive and valued product of Mallorcan charcuterie.
Its distinctive characteristics:
- Exclusive raw material: made 100% with certified Porc Negre Mallorquí meat.
- Greater fat marbling: creamier and more spreadable texture.
- More intense flavour: more complex and deeper notes than standard sobrasada.
- Extended curing: large formats can be cured for over a year.
- Limited production: the smaller availability of black pigs means production is limited and the price, higher.
Etiqueta Negra (Black Label)
The highest quality black pig sobrasadas are identified with the "Etiqueta Negra" (Black Label) designation, which distinguishes products made with the finest specimens and the most careful curing processes.
How to identify it
To make sure you are buying authentic Mallorcan black pig sobrasada, look for:
- The PGI seal for "Sobrasada de Mallorca de Cerdo Negro".
- The numbered counter-label from the Regulatory Council.
- The Porc Negre Mallorquí seal certifying the breed.
