Traceability

The name 'Parma Ham' is exclusively reserved for hams bearing the Ducal Crown, the indelible and unique brand given at the end of the ageing period. The final branding, however, is only the last step of a long identification process. Every stage of the rigorous quality control plan can be tested and proven. This is what is meant by traceability. The entire history of each leg of Parma Ham is visible through, seals, brands and tattoos marked on its skin.

Within 30 days of birth an indelible tattoo is placed on both rear legs of the young pig indicating birth place, the breeder's code and the month of birth.

The authorised abattoirs apply a firebranded code on the pigskin of each fresh trimmed leg permanently identifying the slaughterhouse.

A metal seal is attached to each ham during the salting stage, bearing the Consortium's initials (CPP) and the date at which processing began.

Finally, at the end of the curing period, the five point Ducal Crown brand is added along with the identification code of the producer. It is stamped under the strict control of the I.P.Q. inspectors and is the final guarantee of the quality of the ham.

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