Can: You Buy Raw Ham

These often require soaking in water to remove excess salt before they are slowly baked or fried. 3. "Raw" Ready-to-Eat Hams

There is a specific category of ham that is technically raw (never heated) but safe to eat due to the curing process. Products like Prosciutto di Parma can you buy raw ham

You typically won't find these sitting in the standard deli or refrigerated ham aisle of a grocery store. You usually need to visit a local butcher or specialty meat market like May Hill Farm . These often require soaking in water to remove

A fresh ham is simply a raw, unprocessed hind leg of a pig. It has not been brined, salted, or smoked. Products like Prosciutto di Parma You typically won't

or are cured for a year or more. The high salt content and long drying time make them shelf-stable and safe to eat without cooking. Comparison of Ham Types Processed? Safe to eat "Raw"? Common Use Fresh Ham ❌ No, must be fully cooked Roasting, DIY curing Country Ham Yes (Dry-cured) ❌ No, usually needs cooking/soaking Breakfast slices, holiday mains City Ham Yes (Brined) ✅ Yes (Pre-cooked) Standard deli sandwiches Prosciutto Yes (Aged) ✅ Yes (Safe as-is) Charcuterie, appetizers Tips for Buying Raw Ham

Because it is entirely raw pork, it must be cooked to an internal temperature of at least 145°F (