Are you a fan of pork skins but wondering if your go-to snack is actually made from real pork?
Look no further than Baken-Ets, America’s favorite pork skin snack for over 50 years. With a crispy, crunchy texture and beloved flavor, Baken-Ets are a popular choice for those on the keto diet looking for a low-carb snack.
However, some skeptics question whether these mass-produced snacks are truly made from real pork skins.
In this article, we’ll explore the truth behind Baken-Ets and whether they’re a healthy option for your keto lifestyle.
Are Baken-Ets Real Pork Skins?
The short answer is yes, Baken-Ets are made from real pork skins. The ingredients listed on the packaging include only fried pork skins and salt.
However, some people may find the texture and taste of Baken-Ets to be different from traditional pork skins, which could be due to the mass production process. It’s important to note that while Baken-Ets may be a convenient and tasty snack option, they may not be the healthiest choice due to added ingredients and processing.
What Are Baken-Ets And How Are They Made?
Baken-Ets are a popular snack made from real pork skins that have been fried to a crispy, crunchy texture. The process of making Baken-Ets involves cooking the pork skins to perfection, resulting in a product that’s been loved for generations. The ingredients listed on the packaging are simple: fried pork skins and salt.
The process of making traditional pork skins involves simmering the pork skin in boiling water, dividing it into bite-size pieces known as “pellets,” and then chilling it for at least four hours so that the subdermal fat can solidify. After that layer has congealed, it is pared away and discarded. The pellets are then dried and rendered to remove as much moisture as possible before being placed across a mesh tray over a drip pan and left in a low-heat oven for about eight hours. Once the skin is dried, it’s ready for frying in oil heated to about 360 degrees.
While Baken-Ets are made from real pork skins, they may not have the same texture or taste as traditional pork skins due to the mass production process. Additionally, Baken-Ets may not be the healthiest snack option due to added ingredients and processing. It’s important to consider these factors when choosing snacks and to enjoy them in moderation.
The Controversy Surrounding Baken-Ets’ Ingredients
While the packaging of Baken-Ets lists only two ingredients, fried pork skins and salt, there is controversy surrounding the other ingredients listed in smaller print. The inclusion of maltodextrin, monosodium glutamate (MSG), and artificial colors such as Red 40 Lake, Yellow 6 Lake, and Blue 1 Lake have raised concerns among some consumers.
Maltodextrin, which is made from corn, is used as a thickener and filler in many processed foods. While it is generally recognized as safe by the FDA, it has been linked to spikes in blood sugar levels and may cause digestive issues for some people.
MSG is a flavor enhancer that has been linked to headaches, nausea, and other adverse reactions in some people. While the FDA considers MSG to be safe for consumption, some people may choose to avoid it due to personal preferences or concerns about potential health effects.
The use of artificial colors in Baken-Ets has also raised concerns. These colors are used to enhance the appearance of the snack and make it more appealing to consumers. However, some studies have suggested that certain artificial colors may be linked to hyperactivity in children and other health issues.
The Truth About Baken-Ets’ Pork Skin Content
Baken-Ets fried pork skins are a popular snack food that contain 80 calories per 14g serving. This serving size contains 5g of fat, 7g of protein, and 0g of carbohydrate. While the lack of carbohydrates may make Baken-Ets a popular choice for those following low-carb diets, it’s important to note that this also means they contain no dietary fiber or other important nutrients found in complex carbohydrates.
One concern with Baken-Ets is their high saturated fat content. Each serving contains 2.5g of saturated fat, which is about 13% of the recommended daily intake for a 2,000 calorie diet. Saturated fat has been linked to an increased risk of heart disease, as it can raise cholesterol levels. However, it’s worth noting that not all saturated fats have the same effect on the body. Baken-Ets contain both stearic acid and palmitic acid, with stearic acid having a neutral effect on cholesterol levels and palmitic acid potentially increasing cholesterol depending on overall diet.
Another potential issue with Baken-Ets is their high sodium content. Eating a high sodium diet can increase blood pressure and contribute to heart disease, stroke, and kidney disease. Each serving of Baken-Ets contains 20mg of cholesterol and is considered an ultra-processed food due to its high salt, sugar, and fat content.
While Baken-Ets may be made from real pork skins, the mass production process may affect their texture and taste compared to traditional pork skins. It’s important to consider the added ingredients and processing when choosing snack options and to consume them in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
Nutritional Information And Health Benefits Of Baken-Ets
For those curious about the nutritional information and health benefits of Baken-Ets, it’s important to note that a serving size of 9 pieces (14 g) contains 80 calories. While pork skins are a good source of protein, Baken-Ets may not be the best source due to the added salt and processing.
It’s also important to note that consuming too much salt can lead to health problems such as high blood pressure. Therefore, it’s recommended to consume Baken-Ets in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
In terms of health benefits, pork skins contain collagen, which is a protein that helps maintain skin elasticity and joint health. Additionally, they are low in carbohydrates and high in fat, making them a good option for those following a low-carb or ketogenic diet.
Baken-Ets And The Keto Diet: Are They A Good Fit?
Baken-Ets Hot ‘N Spicy Chicharrones are often considered a “Dirty Keto” snack because they are a low-carb processed food that contains unhealthy ingredients such as dextrose, blue #
Alternatives To Baken-Ets For A Healthier Snack Option.
If you’re looking for a healthier snack option than Baken-Ets, there are plenty of alternatives to choose from. Here are some ideas to satisfy your crunchy cravings without sacrificing your health:
1. Kale chips: Kale chips are a great alternative to potato chips or pork rinds. They’re low in calories and high in nutrients, making them a healthy and delicious snack option.
2. Carrot sticks: Carrot sticks are another healthy snack option that can satisfy your crunchy cravings. They’re low in calories and high in fiber and vitamin A.
3. Roasted chickpeas: Roasted chickpeas are a crunchy and flavorful snack that’s high in protein and fiber. They’re also easy to make at home with just a few simple ingredients.
4. Nuts: Nuts are a healthy and satisfying snack option that’s packed with protein, fiber, and healthy fats. Just be sure to choose unsalted varieties to keep the sodium content low.
5. Rice cakes: Rice cakes are a low-calorie and low-fat snack option that can be topped with your favorite toppings like nut butter, hummus, or avocado.
