It is the most commonly consumed meat worldwide, with evidence of pig husbandry dating back to 5000 BCE. Ham, gammon, bacon, and pork bao recipe are examples of preserved pork. Pork is the most popular meat in the Western world, particularly in Central Europe.

Some religions and cultures prohibit pork consumption, notably Islam and Judaism. Pigs were domesticated in Mesopotamia around 13,000 BC. Pig being prepared in France during the mid-19th century. Before the mass production and re-engineering of pigs in the 20th century, pork in Europe and North America was traditionally an autumn dish—pigs and other livestock coming to the slaughter in the autumn after growing in the spring and fattening during the summer. A traditional Austrian pork dish, served with potato croquettes, vegetables, mushrooms and gravy. Pork vindaloo, spicy pork curry from India.

As a result, large numbers of pork recipes have been developed throughout the world. Jamón, made from the hind legs of a pig, is the most well-known Spanish dry-cured ham. By 2017, half the world’s pork was consumed in China. A pork shop in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.

Tonkatsu, Japanese breaded deep fried pork cutlet. Pork is popular throughout eastern Asia and the Pacific, where whole roast pig is a popular item in Pacific Island cuisine. It is consumed in a great many ways and highly esteemed in Chinese cuisine. China was the largest producer of pork in the world in 2020 followed by the European Union and the United States.