WHY WE RAISE GLOUCESTERSHIRE OLD SPOTS AT OAK BLOSSOM FARM

At Oak Blossom Farm, our mission is to raise animals ethically, sustainably, and with deep respect for heritage. That’s why we’ve chosen the Gloucestershire Old Spot (GOS) as our primary pig breed—a decision rooted in tradition, animal welfare, and breed preservation.

The Gloucestershire Old Spot is one of the oldest recorded pig breeds in the world, originating over 100 years ago in the countryside of Gloucestershire, England. Known for their distinctive white coat with black spots, these pigs were traditionally kept in orchards where they foraged on windfall apples and grazed freely—a practice we proudly continue on our own woodland and pasture.

Not long ago, the GOS breed was at serious risk of extinction. As industrial farming shifted toward faster-growing commercial breeds, heritage pigs like the Old Spots were nearly forgotten. By the 1960s and 70s, their numbers had declined dramatically.

Today, thanks to the efforts of dedicated farmers and conservation groups—and farms like ours—this beloved breed is making a comeback. By choosing Gloucestershire Old Spots, we’re doing our part to protect genetic diversity and preserve a living piece of agricultural history.

• Excellent Foragers: GOS pigs thrive in natural environments. Their calm nature and strong rooting instincts make them ideal for woodland and pasture systems.
   
• Gentle Temperament: These pigs are docile, easy to handle, and perfect for small-scale, humane farming.
   
• Delicious, High-Quality Pork: The meat is tender, well-marbled, and packed with rich flavor—a result of their slow growth and natural diet.

By raising GOS pigs on our pasture and woodland, we:

• Allow animals to live naturally and humanely
   
• Regenerate our soil through rotational grazing
   
• Produce pork with integrity—flavorful, nutrient-dense, and raised with care