Dr Luis Montel, an expert in sports medicine, aesthetics, nutrition, and anti-ageing, analysed the role of its proteins of high biological value, essential amino acids, B vitamins, and minerals.
-- Madrid, 29 October 2026
The Conference on Human Nutrition and Dietetics, held at the Universidad Complutense de Madrid (Spain) School of Medicine, highlighted the nutritional value of acorn-fed Iberian ham, one of the great jewels of Spanish cuisine, according to Dr. Luis Montel’s Office of Events and Partnerships.
"Its extraordinary nutritional composition, centuries-old tradition, and growing international recognition place it among the outstanding products that merit special attention in contemporary diets," explained Dr Luis Montel, the author of the book Los tres reinos de la longevidad: sexo, alimentación y estilos de vida [The Three Realms of Longevity: Sex, Food, and Lifestyles].
Featuring Florencio Sanchidrián—a master ham carver and global ambassador for both Ibérico ham and the "Marca España" (Spain Brand) initiative—the event included a tasting and a masterclass, Dr. Luis Montel’s Office of Events and Partnerships detailed.
The star of the show was Arcano ham by Manuel Maldonado, made from 100% Iberian pigs fed on acorns and cellar-cured for over four years, yielding a "work of craftsmanship" featuring organoleptic qualities that can be appreciated: a deep aroma, a delicate texture, marbling, and an extraordinarily persistent flavour on the palate.
"In just 30 or 40 grams of acorn-fed Iberian ham, we find proteins of high biological value, essential amino acids, B vitamins, and minerals that play a role in important metabolic processes," Montel explained to the audience.
Its proteins also supply components for "the maintenance and repair of tissues, which are particularly beneficial for physically active people and athletes", in addition to "its tryptophan content – an essential amino acid involved in the production of serotonin and melatonin, substances linked to the proper functioning of the nervous system and the regulation of biological rhythms".
According to the expert in sports medicine, aesthetics, nutrition, and anti-ageing, Iberian ham can be included, in moderate amounts, in a balanced diet as a concentrated source of nutrients.
"One of the most distinctive aspects of acorn-fed Iberian ham is its fat composition, which is shaped by the pig's diet during the montanera period. The acorn favours the presence of oleic acid, a monounsaturated fat that is also characteristic of olive oil and closely linked to the Mediterranean dietary pattern," he added.
Sanchidrián's work at the academic event revealed another fundamental aspect of ham: the importance of artisanal slicing in bringing out its full character; in his demonstrations, the master carver showed how temperature, slice thickness, fat distribution, and precision with the knife directly affect the sensory experience.
Acorn-fed Iberian ham is enjoying growing international prominence, with markets such as the United States and China increasingly drawn to this symbol of Spanish gastronomic excellence, prized for its exclusivity, origin, and nutritional qualities.
The event held at the Universidad Complutense pointed to the importance of raising awareness of this heritage from a perspective that brings together scientific knowledge and gastronomic culture, "because the true secret of Iberian ham lies not in consuming large quantities, but in appreciating the quality that even a small portion can offer".
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