For participants of the Whole30 program, the appeal of a savory, compliant breakfast is strong, but finding the right bacon can be a confusing task. The rules around bacon on Whole30 are strict: no added sugar, no MSG, and no sulfites. This means that a large portion of the standard bacon found in grocery stores is off-limits. Fortunately, a growing number of brands are offering compliant products, making it easier than ever to enjoy bacon without compromising your reset. The key is to know what to look for and what common terms like "uncured" actually mean in the context of Whole30 rules.
The Core Rules for Whole30 Bacon
To ensure your bacon is Whole30-compliant, you must become a savvy label reader. The program focuses on whole, unprocessed foods, and even seemingly healthy-sounding ingredients can be non-compliant. Here’s what you need to know:
- No Added Sugar: This is the most common reason bacon is not Whole30 compliant. Sugar can be listed under many names, including cane juice, maple syrup, honey, and dextrose. Check the ingredients list thoroughly, not just the nutrition facts panel.
- No MSG or Sulfites: These additives are explicitly prohibited on the Whole30. MSG (monosodium glutamate) is a flavor enhancer, and sulfites are used as a preservative.
- Understanding "Uncured": The term "uncured" on a bacon package can be misleading. According to USDA regulations, bacon labeled as "uncured" means it has not been preserved with synthetic nitrates or nitrites. Instead, it uses naturally occurring nitrates, often from celery powder or juice. For Whole30 purposes, these natural nitrates are acceptable, provided no added sugar is also present.
Whole30 Compliant Bacon Brands
Thankfully, several brands have stepped up to the plate, offering products that meet the rigorous Whole30 standards. You can find these options at specialty stores, major retailers, and online.
Applegate
Applegate is a longtime Whole30 favorite, known for its commitment to cleaner ingredients. Their "No Sugar Bacon" is a go-to for many participants and is widely available. They also offer organic and turkey bacon options that are Whole30 Approved®.
Pederson's Farms
Pederson's Farms is another brand with a strong reputation in the Whole30 community. They produce a variety of uncured bacon products with no sugar added, using simple, natural ingredients like organic pork, water, and celery powder. You can often find their products at Whole Foods and Sprouts, as well as online through services like ButcherBox.
Naked Bacon
As their name suggests, Naked Bacon is committed to simplicity, using only pork, water, sea salt, and spices in their Whole30 Approved® products. Their commitment to excluding nitrates, nitrites, phosphates, and sugars makes them a top choice. Naked Bacon is available at select Target stores and online.
Wellshire
Wellshire offers Paleo and sugar-free options that are Whole30 compliant, including both pork and turkey bacon. This brand is primarily exclusive to Whole Foods Market.
ButcherBox and US Wellness Meats
For those who prefer the convenience of home delivery or live in an area with limited local options, subscription services like ButcherBox offer compliant bacon delivered directly to your door. US Wellness Meats is another online option for Whole30 compliant bacon.
Comparison of Whole30 Compliant Bacon Brands
| Brand | Compliant Products | Key Features | Availability |
|---|---|---|---|
| Applegate | Applegate Naturals® No Sugar Bacon, Applegate Organics® No Sugar Bacon | Hardwood smoked, no added sugar, Whole30 Approved® | Whole Foods, Target, Sprouts, major grocery stores |
| Pederson's Farms | Organic No Sugar Added Uncured Smoked Bacon | All-natural, no sugar, uses vinegar and celery powder for curing | Whole Foods, Sprouts, Target, ButcherBox, online retailers |
| Naked Bacon | Original Whole30 Approved Bacon, Sugar-Free Jalapeño Bacon | Simple ingredients, no nitrates/nitrites, no sugar | Target, online store |
| Wellshire | Paleo Sugar Free Dry Rubbed Bacon | Exclusive to Whole Foods, sugar-free, various flavors | Whole Foods Market |
| Niman Ranch | Applewood Smoked No Sugar Uncured Bacon | Applewood smoked, no added sugar | Sprouts, various grocery stores |
| Jone's Dairy Farm | No Sugar Hickory Smoked Uncured Bacon | Hickory smoked, no sugar, widely available | Walmart, various retailers |
Making the Right Choice for Your Whole30
Ultimately, finding the right bacon for your Whole30 experience comes down to a few key steps. First, familiarize yourself with the non-compliant ingredients, especially the many names for sugar. Second, leverage the information about trusted brands like Applegate, Pederson's, and Naked Bacon, which have established themselves as reliable sources of compliant products. Finally, don't hesitate to explore options from online retailers or local specialty grocery stores, which often stock a wider selection of compliant products.
While bacon should still be considered a fat and not the main protein of your meal, finding a Whole30 compliant brand allows you to enjoy the flavor it brings to a variety of dishes. From breakfast skillets to crumbled bacon on salads, these compliant options ensure you can stick to the program without sacrificing flavor. The effort of reading labels and seeking out these specific brands is a worthwhile investment in a successful Whole30 journey.
For a full list of Whole30-approved partners and products, you can visit the official Whole30 website.
