Watchlist
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Pigs
Middle White
Watchlist; Category 2 Endangered.
During the formation and development of pig breeds in Britain in the nineteenth century, white breeds of different size emerged in Yorkshire and the Middle White originated by crossing Large White and Small White pigs. At the beginning of this process all three breeds often were interchangeable in the showring, but the Middle White was recognised officially as a distinct breed in 1882.
The breed is relatively small, white in colour with prick ears. They have a distinctively short, wide head with a “squashed” or dished face which renders them less inclined to root than longer-snouted breeds.
The Middle White is a specialist pork producer. It is early-maturing and quick growing, and produces succulent, sweet-tasting pork. This has been recognised especially in Japan where the Emperor is said to eat no other type of pork and where a shrine has been dedicated in honour of the breed.
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