According to a factorial experimental design that observed 2 genders x 4 feeding treatments, 32 Duroc x (Landrace x Large White) pigs, 16 castrated males and 16 intact females, intended to Teruel (Spain) ham production were used. The growing-finishing period lasted from the 32.6 to 126.9 kg. The feeding treatments applied were: substitution of conventional feed (control treatment with 15,72% crude protein and 0,91% lysine), by granulated barley (9,33% crude protein and 0,34% lysine) from 41 (barley 41 treatment), 63 (barley 63 treatment) or 83 (barley 83 treatment) days after the beginning of growing-finishing period to slaughter. The barley 41 and 63 treatments impaired significantly the average daily gain and feed conversion efficiency. The feeding treatment had not significant influence on most carcass characteristics. The castrated males had a significantly higher (P<0.05) fat thickness at level of the Gluteus medius muscle than intact females. In the Longissimus thoracis muscle granulated barley increased the percentage of intramuscular fat and the proportions of oleic and total monounsaturated fatty acids, whereas those of linoleic, total n-6 and polyunsaturated fatty acids were reduced. In the intramuscular fat of Longissimus thoracis the linoleic acid proportion was higher in females than in males. It is concluded that the substitution of conventional feed by granulated barley improved meat and intramuscular fat quality, but impaired productive performance in heavy pigs destined to Teruel ham production.