Bacon is a beloved breakfast staple that has been enjoyed for generations. Whether it’s crispy or chewy, bacon adds a delicious savory flavor to any dish.
But have you ever wondered what 100g of bacon looks like?
In this article, we’ll explore the weight and calorie count of different types of bacon, as well as the potential risks associated with consuming it.
So, grab a cup of coffee and let’s dive into the world of bacon!
What Does 100g Of Bacon Look Like?
When it comes to bacon, the weight of a slice can vary depending on the type of bacon you’re using. For example, an uncooked supermarket streaky bacon slice weighs around 15-16 grams (0.53-0.56 ounces), while an uncooked back bacon slice weighs around 32-34 grams (1.13-1.2 ounces).
If you’re wondering how much 100g of bacon looks like, it’s important to note that this will depend on the thickness and cut of the bacon. However, as a general rule, 100g of bacon is roughly equivalent to four to six slices of streaky bacon or two to three slices of back bacon.
It’s also worth noting that 100g of bacon contains around 541 calories. This calorie count is based on a dry-cured supermarket streaky bacon that is not thick cut, with the calories taken from the pack nutrition label and based on 323kcal per 100g.
The Weight Of 100g Of Bacon
To get an accurate measurement of the weight of 100g of bacon, it’s important to consider the type of bacon you’re using. As mentioned earlier, an uncooked supermarket streaky bacon slice weighs around 15-16 grams (0.53-0.56 ounces), while an uncooked back bacon slice weighs around 32-34 grams (1.13-1.2 ounces).
Assuming you’re using streaky bacon, which is a fatty and thin cut of bacon, 100g of bacon would equate to roughly six slices. However, if you’re using back bacon, which is a leaner and thicker cut of bacon, 100g would equate to around three slices.
It’s important to keep in mind that the weight of cooked bacon will differ from the weight of raw bacon due to the rendering of fat during the cooking process. To get an accurate measurement of cooked bacon, it’s recommended to weigh the raw bacon before cooking and then weigh the cooked bacon after it has been drained of excess fat.
Calorie Count Of Different Types Of Bacon
When it comes to the calorie count of bacon, it’s important to note that the exact number can vary depending on the type of bacon you’re using, as well as factors such as thickness and cooking method. However, as a general guide, here is an overview of the calorie count for different types of bacon:
– Streaky bacon: On average, an 8 gram slice of streaky bacon will contain between 38 and 45 calories. This means that four to six slices of streaky bacon (equivalent to 100g) will contain around 152 to 270 calories.
– Back bacon: Back bacon tends to be leaner than streaky bacon, meaning it generally contains fewer calories. On average, a 25 gram slice of back bacon will contain around 65 calories. This means that two to three slices of back bacon (equivalent to 100g) will contain around 130 to 195 calories.
– Center cut bacon: Center cut bacon is even leaner than back bacon, meaning it contains even fewer calories. On average, a 25 gram slice of center cut bacon will contain around 35 calories. This means that two to three slices of center cut bacon (equivalent to 100g) will contain around 70 to 105 calories.
It’s worth noting that these calorie counts are approximate and can vary depending on the brand and specific type of bacon you’re using. Additionally, the way you cook your bacon can also affect its calorie count. For example, baking or grilling your bacon can result in less fat and therefore fewer calories than frying it in a pan.
The Risks Of Consuming Bacon In Excess
While bacon may be a tasty treat, consuming it in excess can pose several health risks. Bacon and other processed meats contain preservative compounds such as nitrites and nitrates that improve the quality of the meat and extend its shelf life. However, when exposed to high heat, these compounds can form nitrosamines, a known carcinogen. Regular consumption of processed meats has been linked to an increased risk of colorectal cancer. Eating two thick slices of bacon daily can increase this risk by 18%.
Moreover, bacon is high in saturated fat, which has been associated with heart disease and higher cancer mortality. Excessive consumption of saturated fat can raise cholesterol levels and increase the risk of heart disease. Bacon also has a high salt content, which can lead to an increased risk of stomach cancer and raise blood pressure in people with salt sensitivity.
Even bacon labeled as “uncured” or “no nitrate or nitrite added” can still contain high levels of these potentially harmful chemicals. Diets high in processed meats have also been linked to chronic health conditions such as migraines, asthma, heart failure, kidney disease, and several types of cancer.
It’s essential to limit the consumption of processed meats like bacon and substitute them with healthier options. If you’re preparing bacon yourself, you can reduce its fat content by cooking it in the microwave or baking it in the oven rather than frying it in a pan. You might also consider substituting less fatty cuts of pork like Canadian bacon. However, beware of bacon replacements like turkey bacon, which is still processed and high in sodium.
Tips For Moderating Bacon Intake In Your Diet
While bacon is undoubtedly a delicious addition to any meal, it’s important to consume it in moderation due to its high levels of fat, cholesterol, and sodium. Here are some tips for moderating your bacon intake in your diet:
1. Choose leaner cuts: When purchasing bacon, look for leaner cuts such as Canadian bacon or turkey bacon. These options contain less fat and calories than traditional pork bacon.
2. Limit portion sizes: Stick to small portion sizes of bacon, such as one or two slices per serving. This will help you keep your calorie and sodium intake in check.
3. Pair with healthier foods: Instead of making bacon the main focus of your meal, pair it with healthier foods such as eggs, vegetables, or whole grain toast.
4. Use as a flavor enhancer: Rather than eating bacon on its own, use it as a flavor enhancer in dishes such as salads or soups. This way, you can still enjoy the taste without consuming too much.
5. Try alternative seasonings: If you’re looking to cut back on the sodium content of your diet, try using alternative seasonings such as herbs and spices instead of bacon.
Remember, while bacon can be part of a healthy diet in moderation, it’s important to balance it with other nutritious foods and keep portion sizes in check.