Our pigs are a Berkshire heritage breed pork. They are raised here in Akron, CO on a diet of fresh pasture grasses, grains, and seasonal produce. Pigs only have a single stomach like humans and cannot survive on grass alone. They can eat it, of course. It is not toxic to them. However, they cannot extract the proteins from the grass due to the high fiber content. This is why we supplement with grains. Our pigs live on sheltered pastures with access to sunshine, fresh water, and a constant supply of fresh greens.

The Japanese name, Kurobuta, means “black pig.” Many of you have probably heard of Wagyu beef, which also hails from Japan. Well, Kurobuta is the Wagyu of the pork industry. In the 1800s, Berkshire hogs were given to the Emperor of Japan as a gesture of goodwill. They were so well received that Japan has had a culinary love affair with Berkshire pork to this day.

Cook all raw pork steaks, chops, and roasts to a minimum internal temperature of 145°F (62.8 °C) as measured with a food thermometer before removing meat from the heat source. For safety and quality, allow meat to rest for at least three minutes before carving or consuming.