Bacon is a beloved breakfast staple that has been enjoyed for centuries. But with concerns about the health risks associated with consuming cured meats, many people are turning to uncured bacon as a healthier alternative.
But what exactly is uncured bacon? Is it really better for you?
In this article, we’ll explore the ins and outs of uncured bacon, including how it’s made, its nutritional benefits, and whether or not it’s worth adding to your diet.
So sit back, relax, and get ready to learn all about this delicious and nutritious alternative to traditional cured bacon.
What Is Uncured Bacon?
Contrary to its name, uncured bacon is not actually bacon that hasn’t been cured. All bacon must be cured before consumption to prevent spoilage and bacterial growth. However, uncured bacon is cured using natural nitrates found in celery, beets, and other vegetables, instead of the synthetic nitrates and nitrites used in traditional cured bacon.
The process of making uncured bacon involves injecting pork belly with a brine of salt, sugar, and natural curing agents like cultured celery powder. This brine can also include flavorings such as herbs and spices. The pork sits in this solution for 12 to 24 hours, absorbing the flavors and developing bacterial resistance.
When you pick up a package of uncured bacon at the store, it has been partially cooked during smoking, but it must be fully cooked before eating. You can cook it in a skillet on the stove, on a baking sheet in the oven, on the grill, in a microwave, or even in an air fryer.
What Is Cured Bacon?
Cured bacon, on the other hand, is bacon that has been treated with a combination of salt, sodium, and synthetic nitrates and nitrites. These chemical compounds help preserve the meat and give it the characteristic pink color. Cured bacon is made by adding artificial nitrates, usually sodium nitrite, into the regular salt and brine mixture. The added sodium nitrite is an important ingredient in the curing process because it helps prevent the growth of bacteria on the meat itself.
Curing bacon with synthetic nitrates and nitrites has been a common practice for many years. However, research has shown that these chemical additives may be harmful to human health. Studies have found that they are not easily processed by the body and may turn into carcinogenic nitrosamines. Nitrosamines are known to cause cancer and may also cause reproductive issues and birth defects.
Despite the potential health risks associated with cured bacon, it remains a popular choice for many people due to its distinct flavor and texture. The curing process gives cured bacon a smoky, savory flavor that many people enjoy. It is often used in a variety of dishes such as breakfast sandwiches, salads, and pasta dishes.
How Is Uncured Bacon Made?
Uncured bacon is made using a natural curing process that involves the use of vegetables and seasonings. The process starts by injecting pork belly with a brine of salt, sugar, and natural curing agents like cultured celery powder. This brine can also include flavorings such as herbs and spices.
The pork is then left to sit in the solution for 12 to 24 hours, allowing it to absorb the flavors and develop bacterial resistance. After the curing process is complete, the bacon is partially cooked during smoking, but it must be fully cooked before eating.
Unlike traditional cured bacon, which uses synthetic nitrates and nitrites to preserve the meat, uncured bacon relies on natural nitrates found in vegetables like celery and beets. This method of curing produces bacon that is free of artificial chemicals and additives.
When searching for uncured bacon at the store, look for products labeled “uncured” and “sodium nitrate-free.” These labels are important to ensure that you are getting a product that is free of harmful additives.
The Nutritional Benefits Of Uncured Bacon
While bacon is not typically considered a health food, uncured bacon does offer some nutritional benefits. For starters, it is a good source of protein, with 3 ounces containing about 34 grams. Protein is important for building and repairing tissues in the body, as well as for maintaining healthy skin, hair, and nails.
In addition to protein, uncured bacon also contains vitamins B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, and B12. These vitamins are important for various bodily functions, such as converting food into energy, producing red blood cells, and maintaining a healthy nervous system.
Uncured bacon is also a good source of minerals like selenium, phosphorus, iron, magnesium, zinc, and potassium. These minerals play important roles in bone health, immune function, and energy metabolism.
It’s worth noting that while uncured bacon does contain saturated fat and sodium, it also has healthy fats like polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fats. These fats can be beneficial for heart health when consumed in moderation.
Is Uncured Bacon Really Healthier Than Cured Bacon?
One of the main reasons people opt for uncured bacon is the belief that it is healthier than traditional cured bacon. However, the answer to whether or not uncured bacon is really healthier than cured bacon is not straightforward.
While uncured bacon is free of synthetic nitrates and nitrites, it still contains naturally occurring nitrates from the vegetables used in the curing process. The amount of naturally-derived nitrites in uncured bacon is not regulated, which means that theoretically, it could contain more nitrites than conventionally-cured bacon. One test showed that a popular brand of uncured bacon contained almost three times more nitrite than conventionally-cured bacon.
Additionally, cooking bacon at high temperatures releases chemicals that increase colon cancer risk, regardless of whether it is cured or uncured. Therefore, it is important to cook bacon properly and in moderation.
It’s also worth noting that both types of bacon are high in salt and saturated fat content, which should be limited to decrease the risk of heart disease. Enjoying bacon in very moderate portions and pairing it with healthy vegetables, fruits, and whole grains can help create a balanced diet.
How To Cook And Enjoy Uncured Bacon
Cooking uncured bacon is easy and can be done in many ways. One popular method is to bake it in the oven. Preheat the oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit and line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup. Lay out the uncured bacon slices on the baking sheet, making sure they are not overlapping. Season the bacon generously with salt, pepper, and any other spices you like, such as paprika.
Bake the bacon in the oven for 15-35 minutes, depending on the thickness of the slices and how crispy you want it. Flip the bacon slices over halfway through cooking to ensure they are evenly crispy on both sides. Once fully cooked, remove the bacon from the oven and transfer it to a paper towel-covered plate to drain.
Another way to cook uncured bacon is on the stovetop. Heat a frying pan over medium-high heat and add the uncured bacon slices to the pan. Cook for 5-7 minutes per side or until crispy and fully cooked. Remove from the pan and drain on paper towels.
Uncured bacon can also be cooked on the grill or in an air fryer for a healthier option. Whichever method you choose, be sure to fully cook the bacon before eating it. Once cooked, uncured bacon can be enjoyed in many ways, such as in a BLT sandwich, crumbled on top of a salad, or served alongside eggs for breakfast.
Where To Find And Buy Uncured Bacon.
If you’re interested in trying uncured bacon, you may be wondering where to find it. The good news is that it’s becoming more widely available as consumers become more health-conscious and demand for natural and organic products increases.
You can find uncured bacon at most major grocery stores, health food stores, and specialty meat shops. Look for it in the refrigerated meat section alongside traditional cured bacon. Some popular brands of uncured bacon include Niman Ranch, Applegate, and Nueske’s.
If you prefer to shop online, there are many retailers that sell uncured bacon as well. Amazon, Thrive Market, and ButcherBox are just a few examples of online retailers that offer a variety of uncured bacon options.
When shopping for uncured bacon, be sure to read the label carefully to ensure that it is truly uncured and does not contain any synthetic nitrates or nitrites. Some products may be labeled as “natural” or “no nitrites added,” but still contain naturally occurring nitrates from celery powder or other sources.