Producer spotlight: the curly pigs
Meet The Curly Pigs.
Meet The Curly Pigs, the passionate artisan team behind one of Northern Ireland’s most unique and flavourful charcuterie lines. Based in Fermanagh, they raise Royal Mangalitsa (aka “curly”) pigs, known for their woolly coats and exceptional marbling in the meat. Mangalitsa pork has a tender, succulent taste and wonderful flavour, unlike any pork you have ever eaten.
Why They Stand Out
The Mangalitsa pig has a royal Hungarian lineage and nearly went extinct - now, thanks to producers like The Curly Pigs, it’s making a comeback in the artisan food world.
Commercial, intensive pig farming is known for horrific practices and unethical treatment of pigs. The Curly Pigs rear their herd outdoors where they roam freely, foraging naturally in the fields. Their philosophy rests on high welfare, antibiotic and chemical-free practices.
From salami and ‘nduja, to lardo “white gold,” each product is cured in-house, with no artificial preservatives (beyond minimal nitrates/nitrites for safe curing) and full transparency. They meticulously handcraft their salami in small batches, ensuring exceptional quality every time.
Thanks to abundant marbling, their pork is juicy, buttery, and rich. They also highlight healthy fats (omega-3 & 6) and a more natural diet through pasture-based raising.
Fun Facts & Highlights
Their founding moment: They started in 2014 with one sow ‘Pigaleena’ and five weaners, with the intention of buying a pig for Christmas - until they realised they had stumbled upon something really special.
The ‘woolly pig’ nickname comes from the Mangalitsa’s curly, wool-like coat - in the Fermanagh climate it’s not just charming, it’s practical.
Their products are naturally gluten-free and artisanally cured in small batches.
They even lend their pigs to estates like Clandeboye and Brookborough for land clearing as they are excellent rotavators.
From Farm to Table
Next time you’re seeking a charcuterie with story, depth, and ethical production methods, look no further than The Curly Pigs. Their products tell the tale of heritage, care, and craftsmanship — from pasture to plate.
Want to try their salami for yourself? Their products are available to purchase in our farm shop.