Climate Change and Iberico Ham

Jamon Iberico bellota is a delicacy from Western and North-west Spain. The pigs, from which the ham is obtained, gorge themselves on acorns in the dehesa oak forests of that region. Jamon Iberico bellota currently sells for circa £88 per kilo (https://www.theguardian.com/world/2023/jan/30/spains-prized-jamon-iberico-under-threat-from-climate-crisis). Climate change has increased temperatures and reduced rainfall in Western/NW Spain. This means that the oak trees in the forests produce many fewer acorns. The fewer the acorns, the less Jamon Iberico bellota is generated. Last year showed a 20% decline in the ham's production. Prized local delicacies (truffles, wine, cheeses etc) depend on reliable weather conditions, in places where they are produced. Jamon Iberico bellota is yet another regional product threatened by changes.