Are you tired of sifting through the endless options at the grocery store, unsure of which brand will satisfy your crispy, salty cravings? Look no further as we have compiled a list of the best bacon brands on the market that will make your taste buds sing.
Bacon is one of America’s favourite foods. It’s delicious, versatile, and easy to make. But with so many different bacon brands on the market, knowing which one to choose can be hard.
We’ve compiled a list of the best bacon brands based on taste, quality, and price. Whether you’re looking for traditional bacon or something different, read to learn more.
Table Of Contents
1. North Country Smokehouse
North Country Smokehouse is a Canadian brand that Mike Satzow founded. It is best known for its thick-cut, original bacon that is certified humane and organic. The company also offers pork products that are certified organic. North Country Smokehouse has a strong commitment to animal welfare and environmental sustainability.
It is made from the finest cuts of pork and smoked over an applewood fire for a truly unique flavour. The price for this bacon is very reasonable, and it is worth trying. You can get a 5lb bag for $52-$73.
Key features
- Offers multiple types of bacon
- Certified humane, organic pork
- Organic options
- Applewood smoked
2. Niman Ranch Bacon
Niman Ranch bacon is some of the best you can buy. It's made from humanely raised animals without antibiotics or hormones. The bacon is also nitrate-free, which is excellent news for your health. This premium bacon comes at a price, but it's worth it for the quality and flavour. Expect to pay around $12 per pound.
Key features
- Hardwood flavour
- No chemicals
- Dedicated to humane animal care
3. Broadbent Bacon
Broadbent Bacon is some of the best bacon you can buy from Kentucky. It is hand-rubbed with a unique blend of spices, then slow-smoked over hickory wood chips. This gives the bacon a unique flavour that is both sweet and smoky. Broadbent Bacon is also nitrate-free, which many people prefer.
Broadbent Bacon is priced at $12.99 per pound. This may seem like a lot, but comparing it to other premium bacon brands is reasonable.
Key features
- Lightly smoked
- Thick
- Natural farming methods
4. Applegate
Applegate is a leading producer of natural and organic meat products, including bacon. Applegate's bacon is available in several varieties, including uncured, maple, and hickory smoked. Prices for Applegate bacon vary depending on the specific type and retailer but are generally in the mid-range for premium bacon brands. You can get an 8 oz of the bacon at $5.
Key features
- Organic options
- No antibiotics used
- Affordable
Related Products of Applegate,
5. Smithfield
Smithfield is a bacon brand founded in 1936 by Joseph W. Luter. The company is USDA-verified and is committed to environmental sustainability. Smithfield's bacon is delicious, juicy, and perfect for any breakfast or brunch dish.
The company produces both traditional and uncured bacon, as well as a variety of flavours. Smithfield bacon is known for its high quality and reasonable price. A 16-ounce package of Smithfield bacon costs about $6.
Key features
- USDA Verified
- Environmentally-responsible plant
- A large variety of bacon
- Affordable
Related Products of Smithfield,
6. Oscar Mayer
Regarding bacon, there is no doubt that Oscar Mayer is one of the best brands. This brand has been around for years and has built a strong reputation for quality and taste. When you buy Oscar Mayer bacon, you can be sure you're getting a delicious product that will make your breakfast or brunch even better.
The price of Oscar Mayer bacon varies depending on where you purchase it, but it is generally relatively affordable. This brand is worth trying if you want a delicious, high-quality bacon option.
Key features
- Affordable
- Accessible
- Transparent approach to farming
Related Products of Oscar Mayer,
7. Benton’s
Benton’s bacon is dry-cured by hand and rubbed with that signature mixture of salt, brown sugar, and black pepper. The curing process takes place in a temperature and humidity-controlled environment. Once the bacon is cured, it is smoked over hickory wood chips. The smoking process occurs in a closed chamber to prevent the escape of any unwanted flavours or aromas.
The company uses only the highest quality pork to make its bacon, which results in a delicious and flavorful product. Benton’s bacon is also reasonably priced, making it an excellent option for those on a budget.
Key features
- Shelf stable
- Slow cured
- Unique flavour
8. Nueske’s
Nueske’s is a Wisconsin-based bacon company in business since 1933. Their bacon is made from quality pork and smoked over natural hardwood chips. Nueske’s bacon is available in various flavours, including Applewood smoked, hickory smoked, and maple sugar cured. Prices for Nueske’s bacon start at $12 per pound.
Key features
- Medium and thick bacon available
- Hand-blended spices
- Authentic flavour
- Applewood smoked
9. Hormel
Hormel Foods Corporation is an American food company based in Austin, Minnesota. The company was founded in 1891 by George A. Hormel as a pork packing company. During World War II, Hormel helped soldiers get protein by offering the Black Label and Natural Choice line of bacon to the United States military.
The company offers a wide variety of bacon products, including both traditional and precooked types. Hormel's bacon is known for being flavorful and relatively lean. Prices vary depending on the product, but Hormel's bacon is generally affordable.
Key features
- Many types of bacon are available
- Uncured options
- Affordable
- Accessible
Related Products of Hormel,
10. Tender Belly
Tender Belly is one of the best bacon brands because of its high-quality pork and unique curing process. The pork is sourced from heritage-breed pigs that are raised on family farms without the use of antibiotics or growth hormones. The pigs are fed a vegetarian diet and given access to fresh air and sunshine. This results in pork that is flavorful and juicy.
The curing process used by Tender Belly results in less salty bacon than other brands. The bacon is also free of artificial flavours, colours, or preservatives. It is available in wide, thin, sliced varieties and uncured, sugar-free options. Prices start at $13 per 12 oz pack.
Key features
- Responsibly-raised heritage pork
- Vegetarian-fed pigs
- Uses sustainability-focused farms
11. Vande Rose Farms
If you're looking for delicious, high-quality bacon, look no further than Vande Rose Farms. This family-run farm produces some of the best bacon, using only the finest ingredients and traditional methods.
They take great pride in producing quality pork without antibiotics or hormones. All of their pigs are a heritage breed and raised on pasture. Their bacon is hand-crafted using a traditional dry rub and cure method. This results in delicious bacon that has a deep smoky flavour and a slight hint of sweetness. Key features
- Antibiotic-free pigs
- No hormones ever
- Uses regenerative farming practices
12. Edwards Virginia Smokehouse
Many bacon brands are on the market, but Edwards Virginia Smokehouse is one of the best. Their bacon is made from high-quality pork and is smoked over hickory chips for a unique flavour. It is also nitrate-free and contains no artificial ingredients.
Edwards Virginia Smokehouse bacon is available in thin, thick-sliced varieties and can be purchased online or in stores. Prices vary depending on the type of bacon and the quantity but range from $11-13 per pound.
Key features
- Hickory smoked
- No antibiotics or hormones
- Heritage-breed pork
How to Shop For the Best Bacon
When it comes to bacon, there are a few things to consider before making your purchase. Here are six factors to keep in mind when shopping for the best bacon brand:
- Brand: There are many different bacon brands on the market, so choosing one you trust is essential. Do some research on your favourite brands and read reviews to see what other customers have to say
- Types of bacon: There are several different types of bacon available, including pork bacon, turkey bacon, and beef bacon. Each class has a unique flavour and texture, so choosing the one you think will taste best is essential.
- Sodium level: Bacon is high in sodium, so choosing a brand with a lower sodium content is essential if you're watching your salt intake. Compare the sodium levels of different brands before making your purchase.
- Thick vs thin cuts: Thick cuts of bacon are more flavorful, while thin cuts are leaner and often considered healthier. It's up to you to decide which type you prefer.
- Fat: Look at each brand's fat content before making your purchase. Some prefer leaner bacon, while others don't mind the higher fat content; it's up to you.
Just be sure to check the labels so you know exactly what you're getting. Once you've considered all of these factors, you should be able to find the best bacon brand for your needs easily!
Conclusion
When choosing the best bacon brand, it is essential to consider your tastes and preferences. Whether you prefer thin, thick, or smoky bacon, there is something on this list for everyone. Whether it's an everyday staple in your home, a memorable holiday treat, or even just a topping at your next barbecue party, these bacon brands will provide an unforgettable flavour and texture every time.