Traceability is a fundamental element in the Iberian pork industry, as it guarantees the origin, quality and compliance with regulations that protect both producers and consumers. Through different identification and control systems, each piece of Iberian ham or sausage can be traced from the pasture to the point of sale.
Identification and control at source
The traceability process begins in the pasture, where each Iberian pig is registered with an identification eartag or microchip that allows us to know its lineage, date of birth, feeding system and movements between farms. This control is maintained throughout its life, ensuring that the standards of the Ibérico Quality Standard are respected.
Labelling of parts: coloured flanges
In order to differentiate the different types of Iberian pork products, each piece is labelled with a coloured flange, established by official regulations:
- Negra: 100% Iberian acorn-fed Iberian ham.
- Red: Acorn-fed Iberian ham (75% or 50% Iberian breed).
- Green: Iberian ham from cebo de campo.
- Blanca: Cebo Iberian ham.
This identification system is also applied to other pieces derived from the Iberian pig, guaranteeing that the consumer can easily distinguish the origin and quality of each product.
QR code and digital tracking
Technological innovations have made it possible to incorporate QR codes on the labelling, making it easier for consumers to access detailed information about the Iberian product. By scanning the code, it is possible to find out information such as the livestock of origin, the animal’s feed, the curing time and quality certifications.
In addition, the digital tracking systems used by producers and distributors allow for an exhaustive control of each piece, avoiding fraud and guaranteeing that Iberian products reach the market in compliance with all health and commercial standards.
Benefits of traceability for the consumer
The traceability system brings numerous advantages, including:
- Confidence and food safety, ensuring that the Iberian product complies with the regulations.
- Transparency, by providing detailed and verifiable information on origin.
- Protection against fraud, avoiding misleading labelling and guaranteeing the authenticity of the Iberian pig.
- Certified quality, ensuring that each piece of Iberian pork respects the traditional processes and the appropriate curing times.
Thanks to these controls, consumers can purchase Iberian pork with the certainty that they are buying a quality product, with a guaranteed origin and a fully regulated production process. Traceability not only protects the sector, but also reinforces the value of the Iberian pig as a reference in Spanish gastronomy.
