Crispy, salty, smoky bacon is beloved across cultures and borders. But which country truly consumes the most of this popular breakfast meat? Let’s explore global bacon consumption patterns and find out which nation takes home the bacon.
Denmark Leads in Bacon Consumption
According to recent statistics, Denmark consumes the most bacon per capita in the world. In 2016, Denmark consumed a whopping 24.6 pounds of bacon per person.
Bacon has been a culinary staple in Denmark since the Middle Ages. It is used in a variety of traditional and modern Danish dishes, from classic breakfasts to gourmet restaurant creations.
Other top bacon-eating countries include Canada (13 lbs per capita), Germany (11 lbs), and the United States (18 lbs) But none surpass Denmark as the apex bacon consumer.
Denmark’s long-standing bacon obsession stems from its thriving pork industry and food culture emphasizing smoked and cured meats. Clearly the Danes know how to bring home the bacon!
United States: Not #1 But Still Loves Bacon
While Denmark leads in total per capita consumption, it may come as a surprise that the United States does not rank #1. America is often associated with over-the-top bacon crazes. However, when averaged across the total population, bacon consumption is higher in Denmark.
Within the United States, consumption patterns can vary regionally. According to one survey, states like Tennessee, Arkansas, and South Carolina eat the most bacon per capita. Preferences for smoked, cured pork may correlate with regional barbecue cultures.
On average, though, each American eats about 18 pounds of bacon per year. So while the US isn’t #1 globally, its citizens still eat a significant amount of the stuff.
Bacon Tradition Around the World
Every bacon-loving country puts a unique spin on this versatile meat. Here are some examples of how bacon traditions vary worldwide:
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United Kingdom – Bacon is thicker cut and often called “rasher.” It’s a breakfast and lunch staple.
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Germany – Bacon is cold-smoked and called “speck.” It’s air-dried before eating.
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Korea – Pork belly “samgyeopsal” is grilled on a flat top to bring out flavors.
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China – “Lop yuk” bacon is air cured with soy, sugar, and spices.
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Japan – “Beikon” is typically thinner than Western styles. It’s cooked like British rasher.
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Mexico – “Chicharron” is fried pork belly served in small shops.
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Canada – Back bacon is the choice for breakfast dishes. It can be smoked or unsmoked.
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Iceland – Bacon is thin and less heavily cured or smoked.
No matter the preparation differences, one thing unites bacon lovers worldwide – an obsessive passion for these salty, savory strips of pork!
Health Concerns and Moderation
Is all this bacon eating concerning from a health standpoint? Potentially yes, if consumption goes unchecked.
The World Health Organization classified processed bacon as a Group 1 carcinogen due to links with colon cancer. Nitrates/nitrites used in curing are a main concern.
Bacon is also high in saturated fat and sodium, which can increase risks for heart disease and other conditions when eaten excessively.
However, bacon eaten in moderation as part of an overall healthy diet is generally considered fine. Balance is key, even in bacon-obsessed countries.
The Future of Bacon
How will global bacon consumption trends evolve in the future? A few factors may impact bacon eating patterns:
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Growing health consciousness – Consumers want “cleaner” bacon without artificial ingredients. This drives innovation in the natural/organic bacon segment.
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Food technology – Advances in meat processing and synthesis create new possibilities for lower-sodium or veggie-based “bacon.”
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Environmental concerns – Livestock emissions may discourage overconsumption of pork products like bacon. But bacon’s popularity shows no signs of waning.
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Higher global prices – As developing nations eat more meat, bacon may become pricier and less accessible in some parts of the world.
While bacon enthusiasm still reigns strong, its future may require balancing culinary passion with health and sustainability. Moderation and smart consumption will be key for keeping bacon as a crave-worthy yet responsible part of diets around the globe.
Bringing Home the Bacon
Denmark solidly clinches the title for highest per capita bacon consumption, while the United States also represents an epicenter of bacon obsession. However, bacon has carved out a beloved place in cuisines worldwide.
From British brunch plates to Korean grilled pork belly, this salty, smoky meat provides irreplaceable flavor. As with any beloved food, moderation is wise. But bacon’s sheer versatility ensures its continued prominence at breakfast tables and restaurant menus everywhere.
So next time you enjoy a mouthwatering serving of bacon, appreciate that you’re taking part in a proud global tradition with a seriously delicious history!
American Foods That Are Banned In Other Countries
Which country eats the most Bacon?
In 2016, Denmark consumed a whopping 24.6 pounds of bacon per person, making it the clear leader in bacon consumption. The United States, on the other hand, consumed an average of 18 pounds per person annually. Other countries that rank high in bacon consumption include Canada, Germany, and the United Kingdom.
Which country eats the most meat?
This voracious appetite for meat is deeply rooted in their heritage as a nation of skilled shepherds. Papua New Guinea, meanwhile, tops the “other meat” consumption rankings. The country is the largest producer of game meat in the world, due to its mostly rural and indigenous population relying on hunting.
What is bacon & how do you eat it?
Bacon is a type of salt-cured pork made from various cuts, typically the belly or less fatty parts of the back. It is eaten as a side dish (particularly in breakfasts ), used as a central ingredient (e.g., the BLT sandwich ), or as a flavouring or accent.
Which country eats the most fish in the world?
In the middle of the North Atlantic ocean, Iceland eats the most fish and seafood in the world, at a staggering 90 kg (nearly 200 lbs), per person per year. That also gives Iceland the crown for the highest per-capita consumption of any single type of meat.