Whole Story

A beautiful ham is the centerpiece of many Easter tables. But do you know the origin of the tradition?

Before modern refrigeration, hogs were harvested in the fall, the meat went through a long curing process during the winter and was finally ready in the spring, making pork, specifically ham, a natural choice for Easter celebrations.

To be the star of your special meal, we think starting with a great piece of pork is essential. Hams sold at Whole Foods Market® contain no artificial ingredients or preservatives and have no added water so the flavor of the meat comes through in every bite.

Plus, our hams are from pigs that are raised without antibiotics and are never given growth hormones*. 

They thrive in an environment that promotes natural behavior and our producers do not use farrowing or gestation crates. * Federal regulations prohibit the use of hormones in raising pork. Here are some of the ham offerings we have available this year:

• Boneless:  Easy to handle from oven to plate, just slice and serve.

• With Bone:  Traditional ham with an amazing presence on the table. Available spiral sliced for easy carving.
• Spiral-Cut: Perfectly sliced from rind to bone for easy carving.  Available boneless or with bone.
• Glazed:  Coated with a blend of spices and sugar, honey or maple syrup for a touch of sweetness.
• Fully Cooked:  Table ready or heat and serve.
• Uncured: Produced without synthetic nitrates or nitrites
• Slow-Smoked:  traditional slow smoked for a deep, rich flavor
• Fresh: leg of pork for the do-it-yourself home chef

In addition to hams provided by national suppliers like Wellshire Farms, this year customers who shop in our Florida, Midwest and South region stores will also have access to hams made from local pork. Just ask your butcher if local ham is available for you.

With so many choices it can be a pretty daunting prospect to pick one for your feast.

Talk to our butchers! They know their stuff and they can help you figure out which ham is best for you -- whether you’re feeding an army of hungry guests or having a quiet dinner for two. Don’t forget about the leftovers! Ham and ham bones add depth of flavor to beans, peas and soups.

Omelets love the addition of a little diced ham and lunchboxes will always welcome a ham sandwich. Check out our Easter Entrées blog post for main-course meat recipes and more ways to use those leftovers.

Will ham be at the center of your Easter table? If so, how do you serve it?