The pride of Agatsuma District, Gunma — a brand pork of clean, elegant flavor, nurtured by the gifts of wheat.
Agatsuma Mugi Buta (Agatsuma Barley Pork) is a brand pork with its production area in Higashi-Agatsuma Town, Agatsuma District, Gunma Prefecture. Managed by JA Agatsuma, contracted farmers at 3 farms within the Agatsuma area raise them with unstinting love and labor. What determines the quality of this pork is a thoroughgoing committed proprietary dedicated feed. From approximately 120 days of age through to shipment, a dedicated fattening feed composed solely of plant-based ingredients with no animal-based ingredients whatsoever — with a higher barley ratio — is given continuously. By adopting this rearing approach, the characteristic off-odor unique to pork is firmly suppressed, producing a clean, refined, and easy-to-eat flavor. The meat quality is moderately firm and finely-grained, with a deep, clean umami and natural sweetness felt within a refreshing overall character. Even those sensitive to the characteristic pork off-odor find it easy to eat — another appeal in its support across a wide age range. The breed is a three-breed cross of Landrace, Large Yorkshire, and Duroc — an excellent balance combination of fine meat quality and productivity. Shipping age is approximately 180 days — raising more patiently than standard pigs to draw out the meat’s authentic umami without remainder. Annual shipments are approximately 15,000 head, available at A-Coop Agatsuma stores and elsewhere. Its clean, refreshing flavor shines especially in tonkatsu — the quality of the ingredient stands out even more, with a crispy coating and juicy interior to enjoy. Please do savor this Joshu (Gunma) specialty — born of the rich natural environment of Agatsuma and the sincere efforts of the farmers — at your table.
Basic Information
- Name
Agatsuma Mugi Buta - Production Area
Designated farms in Gunma Prefecture - Management Body
JA Agatsuma - Breed / Crossbreeding
Female (Landrace × Large White) × Male: Duroc - Meat Characteristics
Minimal gaminess with a clean, light texture and a naturally sweet, deep umami. Fine-grained and moderately firm — easy to enjoy for all ages. - Feed Characteristics
All-plant specialty finishing feed rich in wheat, with no animal-derived ingredients. Fed continuously from approximately 120 days of age through slaughter. - Shipping Age
Approx. 180 days - Annual Production
Approx. 15,000 head annually - Signature Dish
Tonkatsu (breaded pork cutlet) - Certifications
Brand regulations in place (quality certification standards and trade conditions established) - Related URLs
JA Agatsuma
Gunma Pork Kingdom | Brand Directory
Joshu Brand Pork | Gunma Meat Quality Council - Source
Branded Pork Guidebook 2026, p.72
JAあがつま
豚肉王国！ぐんまポーク
上州銘柄豚｜群馬県食肉品質向上対策協議会
Last updated
6/21/2026