An eating contest where hungry competitors stuff down salted pig fat is proving a hit in Ukraine. The pig fat, known as salo, is a national delicacy, whose popularity is underlined by the success of the competition now in its third year.

Held in the north-western city of Lutsk, the weekend event attracted hundreds of spectators. They crammed in to see a programme which included a salo fair and a ‘salomaniacs’ contest aimed at establishing a new world record.  

Even though salo is enjoyed in other parts of Eastern Europe and Germany, it is perhaps most closely associated with Ukraine.

All participants had to bring two kilogrammes of salo from the region or the country they represent. But not everyone could take part – competitors had to meet strict conditions such as ‘weighing a lot’ and being over 18.

Among other highlights of the event were a pig beauty contest and choosing the strongest and heaviest “salomaniac”.

One of the most spectacular parts of the festival was the bid to set a new Guinness World Record by making the longest ever smoked pig fat sandwich.

For people yet to be convinced that salo in among the most delicious and important foods on Earth, there was a documentary about its role in society.

And dedicated pig fat fans could join a newly-created Party of Salo Lovers.

Sometimes Ukrainians joke: “Salo is our national pride”. Little wonder that their love for pig fat has become a Ukrainian stereotype to rival drinking vodka in Russia or eating frogs in France.

It’s also the subject of many jokes:

 – A Ukrainian makes a huge sandwich with salo. He tries hard to put it into his mouth, but it doesn’t fit. Another Ukrainian man passes by, sees it and says: “Hey, would you like it to be cut?” “Yeah, here” says the first man, pointing at the corners of his mouth.