The Calorie Breakdown of Center Cut Bacon
The exact calorie count of center cut bacon can vary slightly depending on the brand and how crispy it is cooked. However, nutritional information is typically provided per serving, which is usually two pan-fried slices. While a standard serving of regular bacon can hover around 90-110 calories or more, center cut versions consistently offer a leaner profile.
For example, Oscar Mayer's center cut bacon reports 60 calories for a two-slice serving, while other brands like Hempler's and Hormel state 90 and 80 calories respectively for a similar serving size. This lower calorie count is achieved because center cut bacon is literally trimmed of the fattier ends, resulting in a more uniform and meatier strip. It's a significant distinction, especially for those tracking macronutrients.
It is important to note that these calorie figures are for the cooked product. As bacon cooks, much of the fat renders and drains away, which lowers the final calorie count of the bacon itself. The amount of fat that drains off is a critical factor, and explains why there can be a range in reported calorie counts. A crispier slice, which has lost more fat, will have fewer calories than a chewier slice.
Why Center Cut Has Fewer Calories
The reason center cut bacon has a lower calorie count is rooted in butchery. A pork belly is not uniform in its fat-to-meat ratio. The ends are typically much fattier, while the middle section is leaner and has a better balance of meat and fat. By trimming these fatty ends, manufacturers are able to market a product with 25 to 30 percent less fat than their regular counterparts. This makes it an appealing option for those who enjoy the flavor of bacon but want to reduce their fat intake.
Center Cut vs. Regular Bacon: A Nutritional Comparison
To help illustrate the difference, here is a breakdown comparing a typical center cut bacon with a typical regular cut bacon. Remember that specific nutrition will vary by brand.
| Feature | Center Cut Bacon | Regular Bacon |
|---|---|---|
| Fat Content | 25-30% less fat per serving | Higher fat content; fattier ends included |
| Calories (per 2 slices) | ~60-90 calories (cooked) | ~90-110+ calories (cooked) |
| Meatiness | Meatier, leaner, and often chewier | Higher fat content, can be crispier or chewier |
| Slice Length & Uniformity | Shorter, more uniform slices | Longer, less uniform, with fatty ends |
| Price per Weight | Can be more expensive per ounce, though often the same package price as regular | Generally less expensive per ounce |
Factors That Influence Final Bacon Calories
The final calorie count on your plate isn't just about the initial cut. Several other factors play a role, and being aware of them can help you manage your intake more precisely.
- Cooking Method: How you cook bacon is a major factor. Baking bacon on a wire rack allows for maximum fat drainage, which results in a crispier, lower-calorie strip. Pan-frying is also effective, but ensuring you drain the grease is key. Microwaving on paper towels is another method that helps absorb excess fat.
- Crispiness Level: The more you cook bacon, the more fat renders out, and the lower the calorie content becomes. A softer, chewier slice will retain more fat than one cooked until brittle and crispy.
- Brand Variation: As seen with the different calorie counts reported by brands like Hempler's, Hormel, and Oscar Mayer, the precise nutritional makeup can differ. Always check the specific nutrition label on the product you purchase.
Healthier Alternatives and Cooking Tips
For those seeking even leaner options, or just a different cooking approach, there are several possibilities.
- Turkey Bacon: A popular alternative to pork bacon, turkey bacon is made from ground and seasoned turkey meat. It is often lower in both calories and fat, though it typically contains less protein per serving compared to pork center cut bacon. Turkey bacon also has a distinct flavor and texture, so it may not be a one-for-one substitute for some. Baking it on a rack is a great way to ensure it gets crispy without added grease.
- Oven-Baking: This hands-off method is not only easier to manage but also promotes fat drainage. By placing the strips on a wire rack over a baking sheet, the fat drips away, leaving behind a crispier, less greasy product. This is arguably the most efficient way to cook any type of bacon for lower fat content.
Conclusion: Making the Healthier Bacon Choice
Ultimately, center cut bacon offers a measurable and reliable way to enjoy bacon with less fat and fewer calories. While it's not a significantly drastic difference per slice compared to regular bacon, the reduction is notable over multiple servings. By choosing center cut and employing smart cooking techniques like baking on a rack, you can enjoy the satisfying flavor of bacon while making a slightly healthier choice for your diet. For the most accurate calorie count, always drain the fat and consider the individual product's label and your cooking method.
For additional nutritional resources on common foods, you can visit the USDA FoodData Central website.
What is the difference between center cut bacon and regular bacon?
Center cut bacon is trimmed from the leaner middle section of the pork belly, whereas regular bacon includes the fattier ends. This gives center cut bacon a lower fat content and a meatier, more uniform appearance.
Is center cut bacon always lower in calories?
Yes, center cut bacon is consistently lower in calories than regular bacon from the same manufacturer because it contains significantly less fat. Calorie counts may vary by brand, but the center cut version will always be the leaner option.
How many calories are in one slice of center cut bacon?
Based on brand averages, one pan-fried slice of center cut bacon typically has between 30 and 45 calories. For example, if a serving of two slices is 60 calories, a single slice would be 30 calories.
Does the calorie count on the package include the rendered fat?
No, the calorie count listed on nutrition labels is for the cooked product, meaning it does not include the fat that has rendered and been drained away. This is an important distinction when tracking calories.
Is it possible to reduce the calories in bacon further?
Yes, you can further reduce the calorie count of bacon by cooking it until extra crispy, which renders out more fat. Using cooking methods like baking on a wire rack also maximizes fat drainage, resulting in a leaner final product.
How can I choose the healthiest bacon option?
To choose the healthiest option, look for center cut or low-sodium varieties. Consider alternatives like turkey bacon for an even leaner option. Also, focus on cooking methods that maximize fat drainage, like oven-baking on a rack.
Why do different brands of center cut bacon have different calorie counts?
Variations in calorie counts exist due to differences in the trimming process and the precise cuts of pork used by each brand. Variations in slice thickness and curing process can also play a role.
Why do I feel like I'm paying more for center cut bacon?
Center cut bacon is often sold in smaller packages but for a similar price as regular bacon, meaning you're paying more per pound for the leaner cut of meat. You are paying a premium for the convenience of having the fatty ends already trimmed off for you.
