What is the white stuff in mortadella?
William Smith
Updated on May 15, 2026
Mortadella is an emulsified sausage with origins in Bologna, Italy. It's composed of cured pork with least 15% pork fat cubes, whole or chopped pistachios, and spiced with black pepper and myrtle berries. The extra fat content gives mortadella its signature white "polka dot" look.