Legend has it that Oliver Cromwell discovered the Berkshire breed during the 1600s while his army was at winter’s quarters in Reading in Berkshire. From that time, the Berkshire breed has been revered for its outstanding quality, texture and flavour. During the early 1800s, the breed was refined and has remained a pure breed ever since. Berkshire swine were taken to Japan as a gift from the British government in the 19th century. Also, known as Japanese black hog, the breed has thrived in Japan as Kurobuta pork.
