As a complete protein source, bacon has all nine essential amino acids and is a good source of protein. Low in carbohydrates, a slice of bacon has three grams of protein and zero carbohydrates. It is a low-carb and low-glycemic food making it ideal for incorporating in low-carb diets.
Bacon is high in fat and is thought to be an unhealthy food that should only be eaten in small amounts to avoid health problems like heart disease and obesity. It is also very high in sodium. A slice of cured bacon cooked in the microwave contains 1. 9 grams of protein and 1. 9 grams of fat, while roasted or fried bacon contains 2. 96 grams of protein and 3. 34 grams of fat.
The fat in bacon is both saturated and unsaturated and one slice contains about 0. 6 grams of saturated fat when cooked in the microwave, and 1. 1 grams when pan-fried. A slice of bacon pan-fried contains 43 calories, 185 milligrams of sodium, and a milligram of calcium. There are 25 calories, 104 mg of sodium, and 1 mg of calcium in a slice of bacon cooked in the microwave.
There are many kinds of bacon, and some are healthier than others. 100 grams of boiled collar joint, which is what some bacon is made of, has iron, niacin, and vitamins B1 and B2. 100 grams of grilled gammon rasher, which is bacon made from the back legs’ tops, is full of iron, vitamin B1, and vitamin B2. A lot of niacin, vitamin B1, vitamin B2, iron, zinc, copper, and selenium can be found in 100 grams of fried streaky bacon.
Bacon in general is high in micronutrients. One slice of bacon contains 5 micrograms of selenium, 0. 9 micrograms of niacin, 43. 5 micrograms of phosphorous. Small amounts of iron, zinc, potassium, calcium, choline, folate, vitamin A, and vitamin B12 can also be found in bacon.
Bacon is a breakfast staple for many, adding savory, salty, smoky flavor to everything from eggs to pancakes and more. While perhaps not considered a traditional protein source, bacon can contribute a surprising amount of protein to your diet. Let’s break down the protein packed into a slice of everyone’s favorite pork belly.
Protein in Different Cuts of Bacon
Not all bacon is created equal when it comes to protein content Here is how protein can vary between common bacon cuts [1]
- Thin slice: 1.85 grams
- Regular slice: 2.96 grams
- Thick slice: 4.44 grams
- 1 ounce: 10.37 grams
As expected, thicker cuts of bacon contain more protein due to their greater meat content. Thinner bacon slices have slightly less.
Bacon shrinks quite a bit when cooked. To get protein counts for finished bacon, use the cooked values instead of raw.
Protein Differences Between Pork and Beef
Bacon comes from pork belly, which is naturally lower in protein compared to beef. Here’s how they compare:
- 3 ounces pork belly: 15 grams protein
- 3 ounces 85% lean ground beef: 21 grams protein
Pork contains less protein by weight than beef. However, the smoky curing process used to make bacon can concentrate its protein content slightly.
Protein in Different Styles of Bacon
Cooking method and special flavors can alter the protein in bacon. Here are some common varieties:
- Canadian bacon (back bacon): 5-7 grams protein per slice
- Turkey bacon: around 5 grams per slice
- Cured bacon: 2-4 grams per slice
- Uncured bacon: 3 grams per slice
Canadian bacon, made from pork loin, is leaner than belly bacon. Turkey bacon is much lower in fat than pork varieties, but doesn’t quite match the protein.
Bacon Protein Compared to Other Breakfast Foods
How does bacon stack up for protein against other typical breakfast foods?
- 2 eggs: 12 grams protein
- 1 pork sausage patty: 5 grams
- 1 slice bacon: 3 grams
- 1 cup oatmeal: 6 grams
- 1 slice toast: 4 grams
While not a powerhouse, bacon still provides protein, especially if eating more than 1-2 slices. It offers a nice protein boost paired with eggs or oatmeal.
Ways to Get More Protein from Bacon
If you’re looking to maximize the protein punch from your bacon, here are some tips:
- Choose thick cut or Canadian bacon
- Order extra slices as a side
- Top burgers and sandwiches with 2-3 slices
- Add crumbled bacon to salads, baked potatoes, and pasta
- Skewer bacon strips for breakfast kabobs
- Fold diced bacon into omelets or frittatas
Combining bacon with other protein sources gives you the best of both worlds. Try a BLT sandwich on whole wheat for a balanced high protein meal.
Making Room for Bacon in a High Protein Diet
Bacon fits into a high protein diet with a little planning:
- Focus on fewer, thicker slices. Or order extra regular slices.
- Balance with protein-rich eggs, dairy, and produce.
- Avoid adding extras like pancakes and hash browns.
- Opt for oven-baked instead of greasy fried bacon.
- Watch portions of added oils, butters, and sugary toppings.
A little bacon goes a long way for flavor. By making it the protein focus and limiting other carbs and fats, you can enjoy it even on a high protein program.
The Benefits of Bacon’s Protein
The protein you get from bacon, while not huge in quantity, does provide important benefits:
- Helps maintain and repair muscles
- Keeps you feeling fuller for longer
- Provides energy for your body and brain
- Contributes to healthy bones, skin, hair, hormones, and enzymes
- Works with other protein foods for optimal intake
Aim for 25-30 grams of protein total per meal. A few slices of bacon can chip away at that goal.
Protein Needs for Active Lifestyles
Here are the recommended protein intakes based on activity level [2]:
- Sedentary adult: 0.8 grams per kg of body weight
- Active adult or regular exerciser: up to 1.2 grams per kg
- Athlete or bodybuilder: up to 2.0 grams per kg
For a 175 pound athlete or bodybuilder, that equals about 140-155 grams protein daily. Bacon can make up roughly 10% of their total intake if eaten regularly.
Best Times to Enjoy Bacon’s Protein Punch
When is it optimal to eat protein-packed bacon? Here are some of the best times:
- Breakfast – Pair with eggs, oatmeal, avocado toast
- Lunch – BLT sandwiches, Cobb salads with bacon crumbles
- Dinner – Bacon cheeseburgers, bacon-wrapped appetizers
- Pre-workout – Provides energy for exercise when eaten about 1 hour before
- Post-workout – Helps repair and rebuild muscles
Bacon is tasty any time of day! Just be mindful of portions as part of a balanced diet.
In short, while bacon may not seem like a typical protein source, a single slice still provides 2-4 grams. Eating several slices as part of meals and snacks can add meaningful protein to your daily intake.
Sizzling a few extra strips can help meat your protein goals – just balance with veggies, fruits, whole grains and lean protein foods as well.
The Ultimate Guide to Bacon
As a complete protein source, bacon has all nine essential amino acids and is a good source of protein. Low in carbohydrates, a slice of bacon has three grams of protein and zero carbohydrates. It is a low-carb and low-glycemic food making it ideal for incorporating in low-carb diets.
Bacon is high in fat and is thought to be an unhealthy food that should only be eaten in small amounts to avoid health problems like heart disease and obesity. It is also very high in sodium. A slice of cured bacon cooked in the microwave contains 1. 9 grams of protein and 1. 9 grams of fat, while roasted or fried bacon contains 2. 96 grams of protein and 3. 34 grams of fat.
The fat in bacon is both saturated and unsaturated and one slice contains about 0. 6 grams of saturated fat when cooked in the microwave, and 1. 1 grams when pan-fried. A slice of bacon pan-fried contains 43 calories, 185 milligrams of sodium, and a milligram of calcium. There are 25 calories, 104 mg of sodium, and 1 mg of calcium in a slice of bacon cooked in the microwave.
There are many kinds of bacon, and some are healthier than others. 100 grams of boiled collar joint, which is what some bacon is made of, has iron, niacin, and vitamins B1 and B2. 100 grams of grilled gammon rasher, which is bacon made from the back legs’ tops, is full of iron, vitamin B1, and vitamin B2. A lot of niacin, vitamin B1, vitamin B2, iron, zinc, copper, and selenium can be found in 100 grams of fried streaky bacon.
Bacon in general is high in micronutrients. One slice of bacon contains 5 micrograms of selenium, 0. 9 micrograms of niacin, 43. 5 micrograms of phosphorous. Small amounts of iron, zinc, potassium, calcium, choline, folate, vitamin A, and vitamin B12 can also be found in bacon.
Choosing that special gift is easier than ever!
Send a bacon gift box full of delicious bacon made in small shops by award-winning master butchers. It’s the perfect gift.
We went all over the United States looking for the best bacon, so now you can send a great bacon gift to anyone in the country with confidence. Click below to explore bacon gift boxes.
We offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee, which means that your bacon will arrive in perfect condition or we’ll replace it.
Explore our bacon gift box options by clicking the button below.
What If You Eat BACON Every Day For 30 Days?
FAQ
Is bacon good for protein?
How much protein is in 2 eggs and 2 slices of bacon?
|
Nutrition Facts
|
|
|
How much fiber is in Two Eggs with Bacon? Amount of fiber in Two Eggs with Bacon: Fiber 0g
|
0%
|
|
How much glucose is in Two Eggs with Bacon? Amount of glucose in Two Eggs with Bacon: Glucose 2g
|
|
|
How much protein is in Two Eggs with Bacon? Amount of protein in Two Eggs with Bacon: Protein 21g
|
|
How many grams of protein are in a slice of bacon?
How much protein is in 3 slices of cooked bacon?
How much protein does Bacon have?
The favorite choice for the term “Bacon” is 1 medium slice of Bacon which has about 3 grams of protein . The amount of protein for a variety of types and serving sizes of Bacon is shown below. Find detailed protein information for Bacon including Popular Serving Sizes of Bacon and Other Popular Types of Bacon.
How many calories are in a medium slice of bacon?
There are 43 calories in 1 medium slice of Bacon. Calorie breakdown: 71% fat, 1% carbs, 28% protein. There are 43 calories in 1 medium slice of Bacon. Get full nutrition facts and other common serving sizes of Bacon including 1 thin slice and 1 oz of raw.
How many calories are in a slice of bacon?
Selenium is vital for thyroid gland function, reproduction, and protection from cell damage from free radicals. Phosphorous is essential for bone health, making energy, and chemical processes. Three slices of bacon, or 34.5 grams, contain 161 calories. That one serving has 108 calories from fat, 2.4 from carbs, and 48 from protein.
What type of bacon has the most protein?
Canadian bacon, also known as back bacon, is another popular type of bacon. It is made from the lean meat of the pork loin and has a higher protein content than traditional pork bacon. Each slice of Canadian bacon contains an average of 6 grams of protein, making it a great option for those looking to increase their protein intake.