The 2023 Bacon Market Report indicates that the global bacon market reached $68.5 billion in 2022 and is projected to increase to $86.6 billion by 2028, highlighting the enduring popularity of bacon. Bacon, traditionally made from the belly of a hog, now comes in various forms beyond just pork and includes different cuts like “streaky” bacon, Canadian bacon, Irish bacon, and more specialized types such as pancetta and speck from Italy.
Different types of bacon like beef and poultry bacon must comply with specific naming conventions to describe their preparation methods and cuts. The USDA has strict packaging regulations for bacon that require transparent windows in packaging to ensure consumers can view the product clearly.
Bacon’s versatility has led to an array of product options catering to health-conscious and ethical consumers, including uncured, all-natural, and no antibiotics options among others. These varieties often come with claims about the type of wood used for smoking, like hickory or maple, and are available in various forms like raw or fully cooked.
Furthermore, the market continues to innovate with new flavors and uses for bacon, such as bacon-wrapped food items and creative bacon-infused products like bacon with churros flavors. Bacon’s integration into diverse culinary areas, from desserts to traditional dishes, underscores its significant role in food culture and consumer preference.
Reference: https://www.meatpoultry.com/articles/30023-meat-candys-momentum-continues