There are several ways to distinguish pork belly from male versus female pigs:
- Size: Males typically have larger, thicker bellies.
- Shape: Males have more rectangular bellies; females have rounder ones.
- Fat content: Males generally have more body fat.
- Belly-line: Females often have a distinct middle belly line running parallel to the carcass; males usually do not.
Pork bellies from male pigs are often less expensive due to higher overall fat content.