The pride of Okayama Prefecture — a pure-bred Berkshire black pork brand of the highest lineage.
Okayama Kurobuta (Okayama Black Pig) is a brand pork of pure Berkshire breed raised at designated farms within Okayama Prefecture. The Berkshire breed is a black pig with white spots at 6 points — the 4 legs, tail tip, and nose tip (Roppaku) — a UK-origin breed receiving high evaluation both domestically and internationally. In Okayama Prefecture, research began in 1978 with introduction of breeding pigs from Kagoshima — in the 1990s, full-scale local production was promoted with prefectural support. During the 3 years from 1996, excellent breeding pigs were imported from the UK — with quality improvement and branding promoted centered on Okayama Prefecture Livestock Research Institute, the regional brand ‘Okayama Kurobuta’ was established. For rearing, a dedicated feed with pure plant-based protein ingredients and cereals as the primary ingredients is used. By raising slowly over approximately 220 days on this feed, the elegant sweetness and rich flavor unique to black pig are concentrated in the meat. Furthermore, minimal scum in cooking — being able to directly enjoy the authentic deliciousness of the ingredient — is also one of the major appeals. The finely-grained, soft meat quality pairs outstandingly with shabu-shabu — simply dipped quickly in clear broth, the unique umami of black pig spreads. The sweetness of the fat and clean, refreshing finish also stand out in wide-ranging preparations including yakiniku and tonkatsu. Distributed through Okayama Prefecture Meat Market — delivered to consumers with quality guaranteed through a designated sales store system. Annual shipments approximately 1,000 head — with limited production, a specialty of high rarity value. Please do verify the flavor when visiting Okayama Prefecture or via mail order.
Basic Information
- Name
Okayama Kurobuta - Production Area
Designated farms in Okayama Prefecture - Management Body
N/A - Breed / Crossbreeding
Berkshire (pure breed) - Meat Characteristics
Finely-grained and tender — the elegant sweetness and rich flavor that only Kurobuta (Berkshire) can deliver. Minimal scum when cooking, allowing the ingredient’s natural deliciousness to shine. - Feed Characteristics
Pure plant-based protein materials used; grain-based proprietary feed to enhance meat quality and flavor. - Shipping Age
approx. 220 days - Annual Production
Approx. 1,000 head annually - Signature Dish
N/A - Certifications
Designated retailer program in place - Related URLs
Okayama Kurobuta — JA Zennoh Okayama
Okayama Kurobuta — Okayama Prefecture Official
Okayama Kurobuta — JA Town - Source
Branded Pork Guidebook 2026, p.162
Okayama Kurobuta — JA Zennoh Okayama
Okayama Kurobuta — Okayama Prefecture (Livestock Research Institute)
Okayama Kurobuta — JA Town
Last updated
6/21/2026