A Berkshire raised on satsumaimo — a black pork where the full bounty of Kagoshima is concentrated into every cut.
Megumi no Kurobuta (Blessed Black Pig) is a pure Berkshire black pig brand raised in Osaki Town, Soo District, Kagoshima Prefecture. The managing entity — Nikushitsu Kenkyuu Farm Co., Ltd. — consistently handles from breeding through fattening, stably producing under strict quality standards. The defining feature is the adoption of a two-site system clearly separating the breeding/development farm and fattening farm. This system minimizes disease risk — realizing rearing in a well-managed hygiene environment. For the feed — an original feed blending sweet potato (kansho) is given in the finishing period. By utilizing kansho unique to Kagoshima — rich richness and umami are added to the fat — the finely-grained meat quality unique to Berkshire breed is further enhanced. The Berkshire breed originally has an established reputation for meat tautness and juiciness — known for good balance of lean and fat. By giving kansho — natural sweetness increases in the fat — a clean aftertaste also a unique appeal of Megumi no Kurobuta. The shipping age of approximately 210–240 days — slowly raised over time longer than standard pigs — correspondingly, depth and flavor is born in the taste. While having a relatively large-scale production system of approximately 22,000 head shipped annually — consistently continuing committed rearing. Outstanding compatibility especially with preparations where the umami of black pig can be directly enjoyed such as shabu-shabu and tonkatsu — receiving high evaluation from a wide range of consumers as a representative brand pork of Kagoshima.
Basic Information
- Name
Megumi no Kurobuta - Production Area
Nikushitsu Kenkyuu Farm Co., Ltd. (Osaki Town, Soo District, Kagoshima Prefecture) - Management Body
Nikushitsu Kenkyuu Farm Co., Ltd. - Breed / Crossbreeding
Berkshire (pure breed) - Meat Characteristics
Finely-grained with an excellent balance of lean and fat — clean bite, tender texture. The fat carries a natural sweetness with a refreshingly clean aftertaste. - Feed Characteristics
Finishing-period original proprietary feed incorporating Kagoshima-grown satsumaimo (sweet potato). Sweet potato naturally sweetens the fat and adds depth of umami while maintaining a clean, refreshing aftertaste. - Shipping Age
approx. 210–240 days - Annual Production
Approx. 22,000 head annually - Signature Dish
Shabu-shabu / Tonkatsu (breaded pork cutlet) - Certifications
N/A - Related URLs
Prima Ham — Kagoshima Megumi no Kurobuta
Nikushitsu Kenkyuu Farm Co., Ltd. (Official Site) - Source
Branded Pork Guidebook 2026, p.209
Prima Ham — Kagoshima Megumi no Kurobuta
Nikushitsu Kenkyuu Farm Co., Ltd. (Official Site)
Last updated
6/21/2026