Portugal produces many foods including a wide variety of domestic animals, such as beef, pork and poultry as well as dairy products. The most widely consumed meat in Portugal is pork. Following very closely to pork consumption is poultry. Production of cheese is mainly from cow's milk, which is generally matured to a medium consistency. Edam cheese is an example of a medium consistency cheese. Portugal's excellent climate also allows for the growth of many different fruits and vegetables, including Rocha Pears. Portugal is the only country in the world which produces this unique type of pear. About 90% of these pears are grown in a region called Oeste, which is about 50 miles north of Lisbon, on the Atlantic coast. Olives are another widely grown product. The olive tree and and olive oil hold a special place in the Portuguese culture. Nowadays, this oil is mainly used in cooking, but in the past, olive oil was an important fuel. It was widely used in lamps, lanterns and even candles. Return to top