Bacon is a beloved breakfast food that has been a staple in many households for generations. It’s crispy, salty, and oh so delicious.
But have you ever wondered how much a slice of bacon actually costs? The answer may surprise you.
The cost of bacon can vary greatly depending on the type, brand, and where you purchase it. In this article, we’ll explore the factors that affect the price of bacon and give you an idea of what you can expect to pay for this tasty treat.
So, grab a cup of coffee and let’s dive into the world of bacon pricing.
How Much Does A Slice Of Bacon Cost?
The cost of a slice of bacon can vary depending on several factors. The type of bacon you choose, the brand, and where you purchase it can all affect the price.
Packaged bacon and fresh-cut bacon (pork belly) range from store brands that are much cheaper up to premium brands that offer better quality meat and different flavorings and cuts. Looking at the table below, you can see store brand sliced bacon is almost half the price of branded bacon that has been smoked and flavored.
On average, a pound of sliced bacon retails for around $6.96 in the United States as of 2022. However, this price can fluctuate from year to year. In May 2021, the average cost for a pound of sliced bacon in the U.S. was $6.35, but one year later, the cost increased to a high of $7.36 in May 2022.
When it comes to purchasing bacon, larger brands like Walmart will offer much cheaper prices for the same product, while even brands like Safeway jack their prices to obscene levels, simply because most Safeway consumers are not price matching products.
The other factor is how much you’re buying. Bigger packages can offer cheaper per slice bacon in some cases, but it’s possible that the bacon will go bad before you can consume it all. On average, you get 16-20 slices per pound of bacon for regular slices.
So, how much does a slice of bacon cost? Depending on where you purchase it and the type of bacon you choose, you can expect to pay anywhere from $0.27 to $0.36 per slice. Cheaper brands may be high in sodium and filled with additives, while more expensive options may be dry-cured and have less water for preservation which leaves behind more of the original taste.
The Different Types Of Bacon And Their Prices
There are several different types of bacon available in the market, each with its own unique taste and texture. Here are some of the most popular types of bacon, along with their average prices per pound:
1. Regular Bacon – This is the most common type of bacon found in stores. It is made from the fatty belly of the pig and has a high fat-to-meat ratio, resulting in a crispy texture when cooked. On average, regular bacon costs around $6.96 per pound.
2. Canadian Bacon – Also known as back bacon, this type of bacon is made from the leaner loin meat of the pig. It has a mild flavor and is often used in breakfast sandwiches. Canadian bacon is slightly more expensive than regular bacon, with an average price of $8.99 per pound.
3. Thick-Cut Bacon – This type of bacon is cut thicker than regular bacon, resulting in a meatier texture and a chewy bite. It is often used in sandwiches and burgers. Thick-cut bacon is slightly more expensive than regular bacon, with an average price of $7.99 per pound.
4. Applewood-Smoked Bacon – This type of bacon is smoked over applewood chips, which gives it a sweet and smoky flavor. It is often used in gourmet dishes and is more expensive than regular bacon, with an average price of $9.99 per pound.
5. Turkey Bacon – For those who prefer a leaner option, turkey bacon is a popular choice. It is made from turkey meat and has a similar texture to regular bacon. Turkey bacon is slightly more expensive than regular bacon, with an average price of $7.99 per pound.
6. Peppered Bacon – This type of bacon is coated in black pepper before being cured and smoked, giving it a spicy kick. It is often used in sandwiches and salads. Peppered bacon is slightly more expensive than regular bacon, with an average price of $8.99 per pound.
7. Hickory-Smoked Bacon – This type of bacon is smoked over hickory wood chips, giving it a bold and smoky flavor. It is often used in Southern-style dishes and is more expensive than regular bacon, with an average price of $10.99 per pound.
How Brand Affects The Cost Of Bacon
The brand of bacon you choose can have a significant impact on the cost. Premium brands like Oscar Mayer and Hormel tend to be more expensive than store brands or generic options. This is because premium brands often use higher quality meat and offer unique flavorings and cuts. In contrast, store brands may use lower quality meat or have fewer options for flavorings and cuts, but they are typically much cheaper.
Additionally, larger brands like Walmart can offer cheaper prices for the same product than smaller brands like Safeway. This is because larger brands have more buying power and can negotiate better prices from their suppliers. Smaller brands may have to pay more for their products, which can drive up the cost for consumers.
It’s important to note that while premium brands may be more expensive, they may also offer better quality and taste. Cheaper brands may be high in sodium and filled with additives, while more expensive options may be dry-cured and have less water for preservation, which leaves behind more of the original taste.
Regional Variations In Bacon Pricing
Regional variations in bacon pricing can also play a role in the cost of a slice of bacon. For example, in areas with a higher demand for bacon, such as the Midwest, prices may be slightly higher than in other regions. Additionally, supply chain issues and inflation can affect regional pricing differently. For instance, areas that rely heavily on imported bacon may see higher prices due to supply chain disruptions caused by the pandemic. On the other hand, regions with a higher concentration of local farms and butchers may have more stable prices due to less reliance on large meatpacking companies. It’s important to keep in mind that regional variations in bacon pricing can change over time and may not always follow predictable patterns.
The Impact Of Supply And Demand On Bacon Prices
The price of bacon, like many other food items, is affected by the forces of supply and demand. The COVID-19 pandemic has caused significant disruptions in the meat industry’s supply chain, leading to a shortage of labor and processing plants’ temporary closures. This disruption has led to an imbalance in the supply and demand of bacon, causing prices to increase.
Furthermore, the war in Ukraine has caused grain shortages, making it more expensive to feed livestock. This has led to a decrease in the number of pigs available for processing and has contributed to the increase in bacon prices. Additionally, meat-processing companies’ lack of competition has allowed them to raise prices while generating record profits during the pandemic.
As consumers continue to face higher prices at the grocery store, they may choose to buy less bacon or switch to cheaper alternatives. However, as demand remains high and supply struggles to catch up, prices may continue to rise. The Federal Reserve has stated that these price increases are “transitory,” meaning they are temporary and should subside as supply-chain disruptions are resolved.
Tips For Finding The Best Deals On Bacon
If you’re looking to save money on bacon, here are some tips for finding the best deals:
1. Look for sales: Keep an eye on your local grocery store flyers for sales on bacon. You can also check online for deals and discounts.
2. Buy in bulk: If you have the freezer space, buying bacon in bulk can save you money in the long run. Check with your local butcher or warehouse store for bulk options.
3. Shop at discount stores: Discount stores like Aldi and Dollar General often have lower prices on bacon than traditional grocery stores.
4. Check online retailers: Online retailers like Amazon and Bacon Freak offer discounted prices on bacon, especially if you buy in bulk or take advantage of their discount deals.
5. Sign up for loyalty programs: Some grocery stores offer loyalty programs that give you discounts on certain products, including bacon.
6. Consider store brands: Store brands often offer lower prices than branded products and can be just as good in quality.
By following these tips, you can find the best deals on bacon without sacrificing quality or taste.