History of the Breed

Mangalitsa pigs (also commonly called Mangalica pigs) are a breed of domestic pig that originated in Hungary. These hair-covered pigs were historically bred by Hungarian farmers for their fatty meat, and ever since they have continued to be a popular pork option around the world!

The Red Mangalitsa pigs are considered a heritage breed – meaning that they were raised by our forefathers dating all the way back to the 1800s. For hundreds of years this beautiful breed was recognized in Europe and was used for their curly hairs, fat, and delicious meat! In 1989, Manga’s were on the brink of extinction, but were rescued by an animal geneticist. Although the breed is back on the animal kingdom map, it is still considered a luxury to many and has even been labelled as the ‘Kobe beef’ of pork products… truly unbeatable!

1800

Breeding started in the Austro-Hungarian Empire.
             The Hungarian farmers developed the curly haired pig crossing
             the Bakony and Szalonta with European wild boar, and the Sumadija
             breed from Serbia.

1830

Mangalitsa hair, which is very coarse was used to make waterproof coats and tie the best fishing lures.

1927

The Mangalitsa breed was officially recognized in Europe

1970

After WW2, tastes changed in Europe and Hungarian Agriculture was collectivized.  Vegetatble oil was replacing lard in the kitchen.

1989

The breed was rescused from the brink of extinction by the efforts of an animal geneticist. After the fall of the Berlin Wall, efforts were conducted to save the Mangalitsa.

1990

Fewer than 200 Mangalitsa pigs remained in Hungary and Austria

2007

24 Swallow Bellied Mangalitsa gilts and 2 boars were imported into the USA

2010

2 Blonde boars and 4 gilts came from Austria to the USA

2014

There was the import of Hungarian lines via the Netherlands to the USA, 3 red lines and 3 blonde lines.