Virginia ham was one of the first agricultural products exported from North America. The Reverend Mr. Andrew Burnaby enthusiastically reported that Virginia pork was superior in flavor to any in the world (Burnaby 1775). Another early clergyman, the Reverend Mr. John Clayton, wrote the Royal Society in England that Virginia ham was as good as any in Westphalia (Force 1844).

This activity guide centers on meat identification, learning to be an informed meat consumer, and meat judging. The guide has been written for youth ages 11 to 14 (grades 6 through 8). However, it may be used by youth at any grade-level based on their knowledge of meat and meat production.The activities in this book will strengthen their  nderstanding of meat products and production and provide an introduction to meat judging.