Bacon Bits β Nutrients, Health Benefits, and Shopping Tips
Written by Listonic Team
Last update on September 4, 2024
Bacon bits nutrients
Nutrition facts
Amount per 100 g
Calories
π₯ 476 kcal
| Nutrients per: 100 g | Value | % Daily Value* |
|---|---|---|
| Carbs | 21 g | 7.64% |
| Fiber | 0 g | - |
| Sugars | 0 g | - |
| Glycemic Index | 0 | - |
| Protein | 36 g | 72% |
| Sodium | 1786 mg | 77.65% |
| Total Fat | 29 | 37.18% |
*The % of Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
36 g
💪 High Protein Content
Bacon bits facts & tips
Health benefits
- Provides a source of protein, essential for muscle growth, repair, and overall body function.
- Rich in flavor, enhancing the taste of salads, baked potatoes, and other dishes.
- Contains essential vitamins and minerals such as Vitamin B12, zinc, and iron, supporting overall health and well-being.
Health risks
- High sodium content in many bacon bits, which can contribute to hypertension and increased cardiovascular risks when consumed frequently.
- High fat content particularly in real bacon bits, which can raise cholesterol levels and increase the risk of heart disease when consumed frequently.
- Presence of nitrates and nitrites used in curing bacon, which have been linked to an increased risk of cancer, particularly colorectal cancer.
- Potential for artificial additives such as preservatives, flavorings, or colorings in some imitation bacon bits, which may cause adverse reactions in sensitive individuals.
How to choose bacon bits
Bacon bits should be crisp and have a deep, smoky flavor that enhances a variety of dishes. The bits should be dry and crumbly, not greasy or soggy.
Avoid bacon bits that clump together or have an artificial color, as these may contain unnecessary additives. Bits that smell off or taste overly chemical should also be avoided, as they will not provide the desired savory crunch.
How to store bacon bits
Bacon bits should be stored in the refrigerator, preferably in an airtight container. Refrigeration keeps them fresh and prevents them from becoming rancid.
Air exposure can cause bacon bits to lose their flavor and texture. Avoid leaving them uncovered, and always ensure the container is tightly sealed. Proper storage maintains their crunchiness and taste.
β Extra Tip
How long do they last?
Bacon bits can last for 6 months unopened when stored in a cool, dark place. Once opened, they should be refrigerated and used within 6 weeks. Proper storage helps maintain their crispiness and flavor.
What to do with leftovers?
Leftover bacon bits can be used in a variety of savory and crunchy dishes. Sprinkle them over salads, baked potatoes, or casseroles for added flavor, or mix them into a pasta dish with your favorite sauce. Bacon bits are also great when added to scrambled eggs, omelets, or frittatas with cheese and vegetables.
Use bacon bits as a topping for pizzas, flatbreads, or nachos, where their salty, smoky flavor complements other ingredients. If you have a lot of bacon bits, consider making a batch of bacon bit muffins by mixing them into a savory muffin batter with cheese and herbs. Bacon bits can also be added to a stuffing with breadcrumbs, herbs, and dried fruits, or used as a garnish for soups and stews. For a quick snack, enjoy bacon bits with cream cheese and crackers, or mix them into a cheese dip with sour cream and chives.
π¨ββοΈοΈ Medical disclaimer
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Listonic Team
Fact-checked
Our editorial team checked this article to make sure it was accurate at the time of publishing it.
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