The Gloucestershire Old Spot Pig

The Gloucestershire Old Spot (also known as GOS) is a heritage breed of pig that originates from Gloucestershire, England and was first introduced in the US near the beginning of the 20th Century. They were also traditionally known as “orchard pigs” because they grazed in the orchards that were prevalent in the area.

GOS piglets

The GOS breed is listed as a “Threatened” breed by the Livestock Conservancy. Sustaining heritage and rare breed animals is important for genetic diversity. GOS pigs are generally docile, have an excellent temperament, and good maternal instincts for raising piglets.

According to TinyFarmhouse:

The meat of the Gloucestershire Old Spots is superior to that of commercially-raised meat from more common breeds, even earning the first-ever Traditional Specialty Guaranteed designation for swine of any breed from the EU Commission, which is akin to designations for Champagne and Parmigiano-Reggiano that guarantee their provenance and quality.

On average, GOS pigs require 6 months to reach a market weight of 260 to 280 pounds. This slow rate of growth for GOS pigs allows for a thicker development of backfat than in commercially raised swine. Both the thicker layer of backfat and the longer period of time to reach market weight contribute to more succulent, flavorful pork.