The presence of oleic acid (only olive oil has a higher content of oleic acid) increases the production of beneficial cholesterol (HDL) and reduces harmful cholesterol (LDL) and triglycerides, thus reducing the risk of heart problems such as arteriosclerosis and heart attack. It is an essential part of children's daily diet because of the high iron content, which prevents anaemia, a condition that is typical in children because they are growing fast.

It is high in protein - an essential nutrient that favours growth and renewal of tissue. It also contains vitamins B1, B6 and B12, and minerals such as zinc, calcium, copper, iron, magnesium, phosphorus and selenium. The latter is connected with anti-ageing processes. All this makes El Alpujarreño ham the star of the Mediterranean diet.