When reading an Ibérico product page, separate three questions: Which product is it, what is its feeding and rearing category, and what Iberian breed percentage is declared? Spain’s Royal Decree 4/2014 brings these facts together in the complete sales designation.
The four official seal colours
On whole jamón and paleta, the official seal identifies the following combinations. ASICI’s guide to seals and categories explains the system.
| Colour | Category | Iberian breed |
|---|---|---|
| Black | De bellota 100 % ibérico | 100 % |
| Red | De bellota ibérico | 75 % or 50 % |
| Green | De cebo de campo ibérico | 100 %, 75 % or 50 % |
| White | De cebo ibérico | 100 %, 75 % or 50 % |
Breed percentage and bellota describe different facts
The percentage describes breed. The Spanish terms bellota, cebo de campo and cebo identify feeding and rearing categories. A product described only as 100 % Ibérico is therefore not necessarily bellota, commonly translated as acorn-fed. The term pata negra is reserved for de bellota 100 % ibérico under article 4 of the standard.
Check Los Pedroches PDO separately
A protected designation of origin adds its own geographical requirements and controls. The Los Pedroches PDO specification published by Spain’s Ministry of Agriculture covers jamón and paleta from 100 % Iberian pigs and sets requirements for its defined area. A Córdoba address or a brand name alone does not establish PDO status.
ASICI explains that PDOs can use their own seals while respecting the category colours. Rather than assuming every piece needs two matching tags, check the relevant identification system and the product information.
What about sliced packs?
A pack does not show you the original whole piece. Read its complete designation, breed percentage where applicable, operator and identification details. Black or gold packaging is not an official seal. Keep the packaging and lot information if you need to raise a query.
A practical reading checklist
- Find the complete product name and format.
- Check the declared feeding, breed and certification information.
- If a PDO is advertised, examine its specific identification for that reference.
- Compare the page and the label; ask for clarification if they disagree.
This guide explains how to read product information. It does not replace documentation for each reference or certify the entire Productores Dehesa de Cardeña catalogue. Claims will be published only for the products to which they have been verified to apply.
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