5 Curiosities that you should know about the Montanera of Ibéricos Montesano

At Ibéricos Montesano, we are not only passionate about offering you high-quality products, but also about sharing with you the interesting facts that make our Iberian acorn-fed ham something extraordinary. Keep reading and find out more.

1. Pigs do not only eat acorns:

The Dehesa de Extremadura offers our pigs much more than just the charm of acorns. During the montanera, the pigs freely explore the dehesa, discovering and tasting herbs that contribute significantly to their nutritional value.

Herbs provide essential proteins, complementing the acorn-based diet, which is essential for the development and quality of the Iberian pig's meat. They also provide Vitamin E, a natural antioxidant that not only contributes to the health of the pigs, but is also reflected in the nutritional quality of the resulting Iberian acorn-fed ham.

2. Acorns: The Nutritional Treasure.

Did you know that acorns are the prized food of the Iberian pig? They not only provide flavour, but also a chain of nutritional benefits that are reflected in each slice of ham.

• Nutritional Richness of Acorns: Acorns are packed with carbohydrates and lipids, with the presence of oleic acid being particularly noteworthy, an essential component in the quality of Iberian ham. This monounsaturated fatty acid not only contributes to the characteristic flavour of ham, but also adds healthy properties.
• Perfect Organoleptic Qualities: The concentration of nutrients in the acorns translates directly into the organoleptic qualities of the Iberian ham. Each slice becomes a sensorial journey, where rich and complex flavours intertwine, creating a unique experience. The combination of carbohydrates, lipids and oleic acid gives the ham a juicy texture and an unmistakable flavour.
• Positive Impact on Cardiovascular Health: Research has shown that these nutritional characteristics have a positive impact on cardiovascular health. The properties of oleic acid in particular have been associated with reducing “bad cholesterol” and promoting “good cholesterol.”

3. Acorns are a Natural Antioxidant.

In addition to their nutritional benefits, they also contain an anti-aging secret: vitamin E. This natural antioxidant not only adds a special touch to the flavor of Iberian ham, but also plays a fundamental role in promoting health and fighting cellular aging.

Thanks to vitamin E, our ham helps fight free radicals responsible for aging.

4. During the Montanera, pigs gain 10 kg daily.

This period, which coincides with the optimal maturation of acorns from October to February, is the happiest stage for the pig, where they indulge in their natural instincts: eating, sleeping and fattening.

Eating up to 10 kg of acorns a day not only satisfies their voracious appetite, but also contributes to the unique quality of the fat infiltrated in their meat.

This period is crucial for the production of high-quality Iberian ham and is also the happiest for Iberian pigs. Immersed in a natural environment, where they can follow their natural instincts, they enjoy a balanced existence.

5. Pigs travel up to 12 kilometers daily.

Our Iberian pigs are not only the stars of a daily feast of acorns, but also intrepid explorers that travel up to 12 kilometres a day.

This active routine not only provides them with exercise, but also contributes to the resulting quality of the Iberian acorn-fed ham. The combination of regular exercise and a diet based on acorns results in leaner meat, a juicy texture and a unique flavour that distinguishes our product.
These are just some of the curiosities we wanted to share with you. If you want to delve even deeper into the fascinating world of Iberian acorn-fed ham, don't hesitate to explore our blog.

We will reveal new secrets to you that will make you appreciate even more the authenticity and unique flavour of our products.