How Much Does a Rasher of Bacon Weigh?

Bacon is a breakfast staple loved by many for its savory, smoky flavor. But when cooking or meal planning, it’s helpful to know exactly how much a rasher – or slice – of bacon weighs. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down the average bacon rasher weight, factors that affect weight, how to measure bacon portions properly, and more.

What is a Bacon Rasher?

First, let’s clarify what a “rasher” refers to. A rasher is simply one slice or strip of bacon. The term is commonly used in the UK, Ireland, Australia and New Zealand.

There are a few different pork cuts that can be considered a bacon rasher:

• Streaky bacon – This comes from the pork belly and has streaks of fat running through it. It’s the most common type of bacon in the UK and Ireland.

• Back bacon – Cut from the pork loin, back bacon is leaner than streaky. It may also be called Irish bacon or Canadian bacon.

• Middle bacon – From the center of the pork belly, middle bacon has less fat than streaky but more than back bacon.

For this guide, we’ll focus specifically on streaky bacon rashers, since streaky is the most widely available bacon variety

Average Rasher Weight

So what is the typical weight of one slice of streaky bacon? Here’s the average rasher weight range:

• 25-45g – This covers the usual weight of a single streaky bacon slice sold at major supermarkets.

• 30g – This is the approximate average weight of a supermarket streaky bacon rasher.

However, bacon rasher weights can vary based on several factors

• Thickness – Thicker cut bacon weighs more than thin sliced.

• Brand – Different brands slice bacon differently, impacting weights.

• Cooking method – Frying causes more shrinking than baking or grilling.

• Packaging – Tightly stacked packs limit size variation.

• Portion size – Short cut or oddly shaped slices weigh less.

So while 30g is a typical rasher weight, the actual weight may range from 25-45g depending on the characteristics above.

Comparing Bacon Rasher Weights

To give more context, here is a comparison of the average rasher weights for different bacon types:

• Streaky – 30g
• Middle – 40g
• Back – 35g

As shown, middle bacon rashers tend to be slightly heavier than either streaky or back bacon. Back bacon weighs a bit more than streaky on average.

Again, factors like thickness, brand, cooking method and bacon portion will impact the weights. But in general, middle cut rashers are meatier while streaky is on the lighter end of the scale.

Average Package Weights

To help with shopping and meal planning, here are some typical package weights for streaky bacon:

• 300g pack – 10 rashers
• 500g pack – 16 rashers
• 750g pack – 25 rashers
• 1kg pack – 32 rashers

So if you buy a 500g pack of streaky bacon, expect around 16 individual rashers in that package on average. Use the per rasher weight estimates to fine tune bacon needs.

Measuring Bacon Rashers

When cooking, it helps to accurately measure bacon portions. Here are some tips:

• Weigh – Use a kitchen scale for precision. Be sure to weigh bacon raw.

• Estimate slice count – For streaky bacon, around 3 slices per ounce or 28g.

• Measure volume – 2 thick slices = 1.5oz. But less reliable than weighing.

• Whole package – Divide total pack weight by approximate rasher weights.

• Mark rasher sizes – On a sheet tray, outline individual rasher sizes for easy visual portioning.

Accurately measuring bacon rashers takes the guesswork out of meal prep and recipes.

Average Weight Loss When Cooking

It’s important to account for bacon weight loss during cooking. Here’s what to expect:

• Uncooked bacon loses 15-20% of weight during cooking from rendered fat.
• Higher heat and longer cook times increase shrinkage.
• 1 pound uncooked bacon yields about 3/4 pound cooked bacon.

Weighing bacon before and after cooking helps determine exact cooked rasher weights.

Why Bacon Rasher Weight Matters

Knowing approximate rasher weights is useful for:

• Meal planning and calculating portions
• Tracking nutrition and calories
• Shopping and budgeting
• Recipe creation and testing
• Comparing value across brands and cuts
• Maximizing use of ingredients

While the exact weights may vary, having a solid guide for bacon rasher weights takes the guesswork out of cooking.

The Takeaway

Next time you make bacon, consider weighing a few raw slices. You may be surprised at the actual weights!