Are you a fan of bacon but looking for a healthier alternative?
Do you remember Sizzlean, the bacon substitute that was marketed as leaner and less fatty than traditional pork bacon?
If you’re wondering if Sizzlean is still available today, you’re not alone.
This cured meat product was popular in the late 1970s and 1980s, but has since disappeared from store shelves.
In this article, we’ll explore the history of Sizzlean, why it was marketed as a healthier alternative, and whether or not it’s still possible to find this bacon substitute today.
So sit back, relax, and let’s dive into the world of Sizzlean bacon.
Do They Still Make Sizzlean Bacon?
Unfortunately, Sizzlean bacon is no longer being produced. The product was originally manufactured by Swift & Co. and was rolled out to major markets in the United States in 1977. In 1990, ConAgra Foods acquired Swift from Beatrice Foods and continued to market the product until about 2005.
Sizzlean was marketed as a healthier alternative to traditional pork bacon, boasting less fat and less shrinkage than regular bacon. However, despite its claims of being leaner, Sizzlean still contained 37% fat by weight, causing complaints that the “lean” name was not accurate.
Despite its popularity in the late 1970s and 1980s, Sizzlean was eventually discontinued due to lack of demand. While some people may have fond memories of the product, it seems that it simply did not sell well enough to remain on store shelves.
The History Of Sizzlean Bacon
Sizzlean bacon was a cured meat product that was introduced in the late 1970s and produced throughout the 1980s. It was marketed as a healthier alternative to traditional pork bacon, with claims of having less fat and smaller portions of pork. The breakfast strips were produced by Swift & Co. and rolled out to major markets in the United States in 1977.
The product was originally made from pork shoulder instead of pork bellies, which is where traditional bacon comes from. However, despite its claims of being leaner, Sizzlean still contained 37% fat by weight, causing complaints that the “lean” name was not accurate.
Sizzlean gained popularity in the late 1970s and 1980s, with commercials featuring the tagline: “Move over, bacon, there’s something leaner!” or “Move over, bacon, now there’s something meatier!” However, despite its initial success, Sizzlean was eventually discontinued due to lack of demand.
While some people may have fond memories of the product and even preferred it to traditional bacon, it simply did not sell well enough to remain on store shelves. Today, Sizzlean is no longer being produced and has become a thing of the past.
Why Sizzlean Was Marketed As A Healthier Alternative
Sizzlean was marketed as a healthier alternative to traditional pork bacon due to its lower fat content. It was made from pork shoulder instead of pork bellies, which is where bacon comes from. Pork shoulder is ironically one of the key ingredients of Spam, one of the most fattening foods on earth.
The breakfast strips were marketed as having less fat and less shrinkage than regular pork bacon, with claims that it was 50% leaner than pork belly bacon. However, it actually contained 37% fat by weight, causing complaints that the “lean” name was not accurate.
Despite this, Sizzlean still had some benefits over traditional bacon. It had a fleshier and sweeter texture than bacon, with a spicy taste that was very pleasing to many people. Additionally, Sizzlean had fewer calories than regular bacon, making it a better option for those watching their weight.
The Disappearance Of Sizzlean From Store Shelves
Although Sizzlean enjoyed consistent sales for many years, it began to disappear from shelves in the early 2000s and was completely discontinued by 2005. The reason for its discontinuation is not entirely clear, but it is believed that declining sales may have played a role.
After Swift & Co. was acquired by ConAgra Foods in 1990, the company continued to market Sizzlean for several years. However, it is possible that the product failed to “find a home” at ConAgra and the company may have chosen to discontinue it in order to focus on other products that were more profitable.
Another possible reason for Sizzlean’s disappearance could be attributed to its failure to gobble up an appreciable share of the market. While the product may have had a loyal following, it was never able to compete with traditional bacon and failed to capture a significant portion of the market share.
Ultimately, Sizzlean’s discontinuation serves as a reminder that even a decent product can fail if it does not capture enough of the market share or if it burns up company resources that could be used for more profitable products in the long run. While some may miss this niche product, it seems that Sizzlean was never going to become bacon’s brother from another mother.
Where To Find Sizzlean Today (If It’s Still Possible)
Unfortunately, it is highly unlikely that you will be able to find Sizzlean bacon in stores today. The product was discontinued in 2005, and there has been no indication that it will be returning to the market anytime soon.
While the trademark for Sizzlean is still owned by a company called Quality Brands, LLC., this simply means that the name is available for use on other types of low-fat meat products. It does not mean that the original Sizzlean product will be making a comeback.
However, if you are still craving a bacon substitute, there are several alternatives available on the market today. Turkey bacon is a popular option for those looking to reduce their fat intake, while beef bacon may be a good choice for those who prefer the taste of traditional pork bacon but cannot or choose not to eat pork. Additionally, some people have found that smoked paprika can provide a similar flavor to cooked bacon.
Ultimately, while Sizzlean may no longer be available, there are still plenty of options out there for those looking for a healthier or alternative bacon substitute.
Alternatives To Sizzlean Bacon For Health-Conscious Bacon Lovers
For those who are health-conscious but still crave the taste of bacon, there are several alternatives available on the market today. One popular option is turkey bacon, which contains less fat and calories than traditional pork bacon. It is also a good source of protein and can be found at most grocery stores.
Another alternative is beef bacon, which is made from beef instead of pork. While it may be harder to find than turkey bacon, it is still a good option for those who want a meatier taste without the high fat content of pork bacon.
For those who prefer a plant-based option, there are also several brands of vegan bacon on the market. These products are typically made from soy, tempeh, or seitan and can be a good source of protein for vegetarians and vegans.
Ultimately, the best alternative to Sizzlean bacon will depend on personal preference and dietary needs. However, with so many options available today, it is possible to enjoy the taste of bacon while still maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
