Are Bacon Medallions High in Protein? What the Nutrition Facts Say

December 10, 2025 •

4 min read

According to nutritional data, bacon medallions can contain over 20 grams of protein per 100g, making them a significant protein source for any meal. This makes them a high-protein option for breakfast or adding to meals, providing a clear answer to the question, "Are bacon medallions high in protein?"

Quick Summary

Bacon medallions are a concentrated source of high-quality protein, often containing over 20g per 100g, because they are made from lean pork loin with fat trimmed away, offering a leaner alternative to streaky bacon.

Key Points

High Protein, Low Fat: Bacon medallions are made from lean pork loin, resulting in a high protein-to-fat ratio compared to other bacon types.
Leanest Cut of Bacon: The product is essentially the 'eye' of the loin from back bacon, with most of the fatty parts trimmed away.
Nutritional Density: Per 100g, medallions often contain 20-35g of protein, far exceeding streaky bacon's content.
Micronutrient Source: They provide B vitamins, selenium, zinc, and choline, supporting energy and brain function.
Satiety and Weight Management: The high protein content promotes a feeling of fullness, which can assist in weight management by reducing overall calorie intake.
Moderation is Key: Despite being leaner, medallions are still processed meat and high in sodium, so they should be consumed in moderation.

The Lean Advantage: Why Medallions Pack a Punch

Bacon medallions are produced from cured pork loin, the same cut used for back bacon. The key difference lies in the trimming process: medallions have nearly all the surrounding fat and rind removed, leaving only the circular, lean 'eye' of the loin. This concentrated lean meat is what gives them a significantly higher protein-to-fat ratio than other bacon types. The result is a much leaner rasher that’s ideal for those seeking to maximize protein intake while minimizing fat.

Comparing Protein Content with Other Bacon

The most effective way to understand the protein power of bacon medallions is to compare them directly with other popular cuts, such as streaky bacon. Streaky bacon is made from the fatty pork belly, which provides a higher fat content and, consequently, a different macronutrient balance. Below is a comparison table using typical nutritional values for grilled products, though specific figures can vary by brand.


Feature	Bacon Medallions	Streaky Bacon
Source Cut	Cured pork loin (lean "eye")	Cured pork belly (fatty layers)
Protein (per 100g, grilled)	High (e.g., 29-35g)	Lower (e.g., 15-20g)
Fat (per 100g, grilled)	Low (e.g., 3-7g)	High (e.g., 25-30g)
Calories (per 100g, grilled)	Lower (e.g., ~150-190 kcal)	Higher (e.g., ~300+ kcal)
Composition	Mostly lean meat	Alternating layers of meat and fat

As the table clearly shows, bacon medallions provide a much higher protein concentration per 100 grams, making them the superior choice for a high-protein diet. This is not to say streaky bacon is without its place, but for those focusing on protein density, medallions win hands down.

Additional Nutritional Benefits

Beyond their excellent protein content, bacon medallions offer a range of essential vitamins and minerals. While moderation is key due to sodium content, they can be part of a balanced diet when paired with other healthy foods. Here are some of the key micronutrients found in bacon, which also apply to medallions:

B Vitamins: Medallions are a source of several B vitamins, including B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, and B12. These are crucial for energy metabolism and overall cell health.
Selenium: This powerful antioxidant helps support immune function and protects cells from damage.
Phosphorus: Essential for bone health, energy production, and various chemical processes within the body.
Zinc: A mineral that supports the immune system and aids in wound healing.
Choline: An important nutrient for brain health, supporting cognitive functions like memory and mood regulation.

Making Healthier Choices

Incorporating bacon medallions into your diet is a straightforward way to increase protein intake without excessive fat. For best results, follow these preparation tips:

Grilling: Grilling is an excellent cooking method that allows excess fat to drain away.
Air Frying: An air fryer can create a crispy texture with minimal added oil, further reducing fat content.
Avoid Overcooking: Since medallions are very lean, overcooking can make them dry and tough. Cook them just until they are firm and golden brown.
Portion Control: As with any processed meat, it's wise to practice portion control. A serving of a few medallions can add a satisfying protein boost to a meal.

Here are some delicious and high-protein serving ideas:

Classic Breakfast: Serve grilled medallions alongside eggs and avocado for a balanced, low-carb meal.
Lean BLT: Use medallions instead of traditional bacon in a wholemeal sandwich with spinach and tomato for a healthier twist.
Salad Topper: Chop cooked medallions and sprinkle over a salad with a vinaigrette dressing for added flavor and protein.
High-Protein Scramble: Mix into a scramble with eggs, peppers, and onions for a protein-packed start to your day.

A Word on Sodium and Processing

While bacon medallions are a leaner option, it is important to remember they are still processed and cured meat, often containing high levels of sodium. For individuals with concerns about blood pressure or overall sodium intake, choosing varieties with reduced salt can be a good compromise. Some research has linked daily consumption of processed meat to higher health risks, so enjoying bacon in moderation remains the most sensible approach. For more information on bacon's overall nutritional profile, you can consult reputable health resources. Verywell Health

Conclusion

In summary, bacon medallions are definitively high in protein, thanks to their composition from the leanest part of the pork loin. This makes them a superior, lower-fat choice for anyone looking to boost their protein intake compared to streaky or other fatty bacon varieties. By choosing this leaner cut and practicing moderation, you can enjoy the flavor and nutritional benefits of bacon while supporting your health goals. While mindful of the sodium and processing, medallions offer a smart, protein-rich option for a satisfying meal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, bacon medallions are considered high in protein, often containing over 20 grams per 100 grams, because they are made from the lean eye of the pork loin with most of the fat trimmed away.

Bacon medallions are significantly leaner and have a higher protein-to-fat ratio than streaky bacon. Streaky bacon is made from the fattier pork belly, while medallions come from the lean pork loin.

Yes, bacon medallions are generally considered healthier than regular streaky bacon because they are lower in both fat and calories while still providing high-quality protein.

The typical protein content of grilled bacon medallions can range from 20 to over 30 grams per 100g, with the exact amount varying depending on the brand and how it's prepared.

Bacon medallions are cut from the pork loin, specifically from the leanest part known as the 'eye'.

Yes, bacon medallions are suitable for a keto diet. They are naturally very low in carbohydrates while being high in protein and a moderate source of fat, fitting well with a low-carb eating plan.

Despite being lean, bacon medallions are still processed meat and can be high in sodium, depending on the brand. They should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Grilling or air frying are excellent cooking methods for bacon medallions. These techniques help to render and drain away any residual fat, further improving the lean profile.