The Berkshire is classified as a ‘rare breed’ in many of the countries that have
traditionally supplied the Japanese market.
The meat is "darker, more heavily marbled with fat, juicier
and richer-tasting than most pork, and perfect for grilling."
Berkshire pork’s premium status is due to superior eating qualities such
as taste, tenderness, as well as its slightly darker meat color and ability to
retain moisture when cooked. The quality is also affected by feed ingredients,
such as sweet potato, which is widely used in Berkshire production in Japan.