Founded in 1875, the ABA is the world's oldest swine registry.

We are proud to have almost 145 years of heritage, and are looking forward to many more. 

We’re Pork Perfectionists

The consistent qualities that make Berkshire pork so extraordinary are the result of four centuries of careful breeding. With a long history dating back 300 years in England, Berkshires were originally brought to the US in 1823. Recognizing its superior characteristics, the ABA was founded in 1875 as a means of keeping the breed pure to ensure its quality was preserved. At that time, most of the leading herds in this country were using some imported stock. Therefore, it was agreed upon when the society was established, that only hogs directly imported from established English herds, or hogs tracing directly back to such imported animals, would be accepted for registration. The breed today is descended from these animals recorded at the time or from stock later imported.

 Today, the American Berkshire Association is a community of family farmers, chefs, retailers, distributors and agriculture leaders who are committed to excellence and enlightened farming practices in order to produce the highest quality pork. The ABA has developed a detailed testing program to ensure that all pork sold under its Registered Berkshire Pork seal has been produced from 100% purebred heritage Berkshires.