Ardennes ham is a product that has been produced for hundreds of years and whose appellation and specifications were recognised in Belgium by a Royal Decree of the 1st of February 1974 then protected by a European PGI in 1996.
These recognitions have triggered the development of around twelve companies in the Ardennes, targeting, and equipped to cater for, mass distribution and export.
The recognition and protection granted by the European PGI puts Ardennes ham up there among Europe's great hams. It is therefore an added value that secures the manufacturing exclusivity for the Ardennes region.
There is only one “Ardennes ham” appellation but it applies to 3 different pieces:
- ham on the bone that represents 5% of production.
- so-called “coeur d'Ardenne” ham that represents 80% of volumes. This is the main part of the boned ham on the bone that reaches 4 kilos as an end product.
-the “noix d'Ardenne” which is the second part of the boned ham on the bone and represents 15% of volumes.
The pre-sliced “coeurs d'Ardenne” for mass retail markets represent the major volumes.
5 companies are leaders on these markets : ABRAHAM, MONTENAUER, MARCASSOU, BEL ARDENNE AND SALAISONS DE HAUTE ARDENNE
Delhaize, Carrefour, Aldi….
Promag the certifying body