Are you a fan of the world-famous peameal bacon breakfast on a bun from St. Lawrence Market? Or perhaps you’re considering switching to turkey bacon for a healthier option?
With so many conflicting opinions on breakfast meats, it can be hard to know what to believe. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at peameal bacon and its nutritional value to determine whether it’s a healthy choice or not.
So sit back, relax, and let’s dive into the world of breakfast meats.
Is Peameal Bacon Healthy?
Peameal bacon, also known as back bacon or Canadian bacon, is a popular breakfast meat that has been enjoyed for generations. It’s made from lean pork loin that has been cured and rolled in cornmeal, giving it a unique texture and flavor.
But is peameal bacon a healthy choice? The answer is not a simple yes or no.
On one hand, peameal bacon is considered a healthier option than regular bacon. It’s leaner, with less fat and calories. For example, 100 grams of peameal bacon contains only 157 calories and 7 grams of fat, compared to 100 grams of regular bacon which contains 541 calories and 42 grams of fat.
However, peameal bacon is still high in sodium. 100 grams of peameal bacon contains 904 milligrams of sodium, which is almost half of the recommended daily intake for adults. This is because the meat is brined in salt before it’s rolled in cornmeal.
So while peameal bacon can be a healthier option than regular bacon, it’s important to keep an eye on your sodium intake if you’re consuming it regularly.
What Is Peameal Bacon?
Peameal bacon is a type of breakfast meat that originated in Toronto in the 1850s. It’s made from pork loin that has been wet-cured in a brine of Prague Powder #
Nutritional Information Of Peameal Bacon
If you’re curious about the nutritional information of peameal bacon, here are the details for a serving size of one:
– Total carbs: 2g
– Net carbs: 2g
– Fat: 4g
– Protein: 15g
– Calories: 100
It’s important to note that the nutritional information may vary depending on the brand and preparation method. However, in general, peameal bacon is a good source of protein and contains fewer calories and fat than regular bacon. Additionally, it’s a good option for those who are following a low-carb diet, as it contains only 2 grams of net carbs per serving.
Health Benefits And Risks Of Peameal Bacon
Peameal bacon has some health benefits, but also some risks that should be considered.
One of the benefits of peameal bacon is that it’s a good source of protein. Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues in the body, and can also help with satiety and weight management.
Peameal bacon is also lower in fat than regular bacon, which can be beneficial for those watching their calorie intake or trying to maintain a healthy weight. However, it’s important to note that peameal bacon still contains fat, so it should be consumed in moderation.
On the other hand, peameal bacon is high in sodium. Excessive sodium intake can lead to high blood pressure and an increased risk of heart disease. It’s important to limit your sodium intake and choose low-sodium options whenever possible.
Another potential risk of consuming peameal bacon is the presence of nitrates. Nitrates are often added to processed meats as a preservative and to enhance color and flavor. However, they have been linked to an increased risk of cancer and other health issues.
Comparing Peameal Bacon To Other Breakfast Meats
When it comes to comparing peameal bacon to other breakfast meats, it’s important to consider the nutritional value of each option.
Compared to regular bacon, peameal bacon is a healthier choice due to its lower fat and calorie content. Sausage, on the other hand, can be high in fat and calories, depending on the type and preparation method. However, if you make your own sausage patties using lean ground meats and seasonings, it can be a healthier option than processed sausages.
When compared to ham, peameal bacon is also a healthier choice in terms of fat and calorie content. However, ham can be a good source of protein and contains less sodium than peameal bacon. It’s important to choose a lean cut of ham and watch your portion sizes to keep your sodium intake in check.
Tips For Incorporating Peameal Bacon Into A Healthy Diet
If you’re a fan of peameal bacon and want to incorporate it into your healthy diet, here are some tips to keep in mind:
1. Portion control: As with any food, it’s important to watch your portion sizes. Stick to a serving size of around 2-3 slices of peameal bacon per meal.
2. Balance with other healthy foods: Peameal bacon can be a great source of protein, but it shouldn’t be the only protein source in your meal. Pair it with other high-protein foods like eggs, Greek yogurt, or tofu.
3. Choose lower-sodium options: Look for peameal bacon that has been brined with less salt or opt for uncured varieties. You can also rinse the bacon under cold water before cooking to remove some of the excess salt.
4. Incorporate into recipes: Instead of just eating peameal bacon on its own, try incorporating it into recipes like omelets, salads, or sandwiches. This way, you can enjoy the flavor without consuming too much at once.
5. Limit frequency: While peameal bacon can be a healthier option than regular bacon, it’s still high in sodium and should be consumed in moderation. Aim to have it as an occasional treat rather than a daily staple in your diet.
By following these tips, you can enjoy the delicious taste of peameal bacon while still maintaining a healthy diet.
