Bacon bits can typically be found in the condiments or salad dressing aisle of most grocery stores. The exact location may vary by store layout, but bacon bits are generally shelved near other salad toppings and prepared foods.
What Are Bacon Bits?
Bacon bits are made from real bacon that has been cooked and crumbled into small bits. They provide salty, smoky bacon flavor to salads, sandwiches, potatoes, and more without needing to cook raw bacon. There are a few different types of bacon bits:
- Real bacon bits – Made from smoked, cured pork belly that is cooked and crumbled.
- Imitation bacon bits – Made from soy protein or other vegetarian ingredients to mimic the taste of real bacon.
- Dehydrated bacon bits – Real bacon crumbles that are dried out to extend shelf life.
Both real and imitation bacon bits are commonly found in grocery stores. Real bacon bits will provide the closest flavor to cooked bacon pieces, while imitation bits are suitable for vegetarian and vegan diets.
Why Would Bacon Bits be in the Condiments Aisle?
There are a few key reasons why bacon bits are primarily stocked in the condiments or salad dressing aisle:
- They are used as a flavor-enhancing topping like dressings, sauces and condiments.
- Bacon bits are a staple salad bar ingredient along with croutons, seeds, dressings, etc.
- Shelving bacon bits near salad dressings makes them easy to find for salad making.
- They are often used in small amounts to add flavor versus main dish bacon.
- Some brands market them as a salad topping product.
While bacon on its own would traditionally be found in the meat department, bacon bits are essentially a condiment due to their preparation method and typical usage. The salad dressing aisle is a sensible location for them within the condiment and sauce section of the store.
What Other Sections Might Bacon Bits be Found In?
While the condiments aisle is the most common place to find bacon bits, there are a few other sections of the grocery store they could potentially be located:
- Salad bar or prepared foods section – Grocery stores with salad bars often shelf bacon bits and other salad toppings nearby.
- Spice and seasoning aisle – Smaller packages of bacon bits may be stocked with other spices, seeds, and flavor enhancers.
- Baking aisle – Some stores place bacon bits near baking items since they are used as a topping on foods like potatoes and casseroles.
- Meat department – Occasionally real bacon bits are refrigerated in small packages near cooked bacon.
- Specialty section – Stores with a health food or vegetarian section may shelf imitation bacon bits there.
Checking multiple aisles is sometimes necessary, but the condiment and salad dressing shelves are still the most common place bacon bits are located in most grocery stores.
Tips for Finding Bacon Bits
Here are some helpful tips for locating bacon bits quickly when shopping:
- Look near the croutons, seeds, salad toppings and prepared salad dressings.
- Scan shelf tags or signs above aisles for keywords like “bacon” or “salad toppings.”
- Ask a store employee which aisle sells bacon bits or similar salad toppings.
- Look for small jars, cans or plastic containers with a red, black or brown label.
- Check both the regular condiment aisle and natural/organic sections.
- If the condiment aisle doesn’t have them, try the spice, baking or salad bar areas.
Brands and Flavors
There are many brand options when it comes to packaged bacon bits. Here are some of the major brands and unique flavors available:
| Brand | Flavors & Varieties |
|---|---|
| Hormel | Original, Lower Sodium, Turkey |
| McCormick | Original, Maple Flavored, Imitation |
| Bac’n Pieces | Original, Peppered |
| Planter’s | Salted, No Salt Added |
| Oscar Mayer | Real Bacon Bits, Bacos Bits |
| Simply Balanced | Real Bacon, Imitation Bacon |
| Good & Gather | 45% Less Sodium |
There are more flavor varieties beyond original or plain bacon bits. Options like maple, peppered and lower sodium cater to different tastes and dietary needs.
Storing Bacon Bits
Properly storing your bacon bits will help maintain freshness and flavor. Here are some storage tips:
- Leave bacon bits in their original container or transfer to an airtight container.
- Store unused bacon bits in a cool, dry place like the pantry.
- Refrigerating after opening can prolong freshness, especially for real bacon bits.
- Make sure container lids are fully sealed to prevent moisture loss.
- Use opened bacon bits within a few months for optimal flavor.
- Freeze bacon bits in airtight containers to extend shelf life up to 9 months.
- Avoid direct light exposure by storing containers in darker spaces.
With proper storage, both real and imitation bacon bits can retain their signature taste for many months. Refrigeration and freezing gives real bacon bits the longest shelf life once opened.
Prices and Sizes
Bacon bits come in a range of package sizes and price points. Some typical size and price options include:
| Package Size | Average Price Range |
|---|---|
| 2.5 oz jar | $1.50 – $3 |
| 3 oz bottle or jar | $2 – $4 |
| 6 oz bottle or jar | $3 – $6 |
| 16 oz jar | $5 – $10 |
| 1 lb bag or tub | $7 – $15 |
Pricing can vary based on brand, size, and whether you choose real or imitation bacon bits. Generic and imitation styles are typically cheaper than name brand real bacon bits.
Uses for Bacon Bits
Thanks to their versatility, bacon bits can be used to add flavor in both sweet and savory applications. Here are some popular ways to use bacon bits:
- Toppings for salads, baked potatoes, soups, and chili
- Mix-ins for dips, spreads and cheese balls
- Seasoning for Brussels sprouts, green beans and asparagus
- Garnish for burgers, sandwiches, wraps and flatbreads
- Sprinkles for loaded nachos, pizza and hot dogs
- Add-on for breakfast foods like eggs, avocado toast, and hash browns
- Mix-in for cornbread, biscuits, scones and baked goods
- Topping for casseroles like mac and cheese or chicken bakes
- Crunch and salt flavoring for sweets like brownies, cupcakes and cookies
- Accent flavor in pastas, rice dishes, and creamy sauces
A little goes a long way since bacon bits pack concentrated flavor. Just a sprinkle or dash is usually plenty to bacon-ify a dish.
Nutrition Information
The nutrition profile varies between real versus imitation bacon bits, as well as between brands. Here is the nutrition data for a 1 tablespoon serving size of some popular bacon bits products:
| Brand | Calories | Fat | Sodium |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hormel Real Bacon Bits | 60 | 5g | 380mg |
| Planter’s Salted Bacon Bits | 40 | 3g | 380mg |
| McCormick Bac’n Pieces | 35 | 3g | 200mg |
| Hormel Turkey Bacon Bits | 20 | 1.5g | 360mg |
| Bac’n Buds Imitation Bits | 0 | 0g | 10mg |
Real bacon bits typically contain 35-60 calories, 3-5g fat, and 350-400mg sodium per serving. Imitation bits are much lower with 0-5 calories, 0g fat, and 5-15mg sodium since they contain no animal products.
Selection Criteria
Here are some key factors to consider when selecting your ideal bacon bits product:
- Ingredients – Choose real bacon bits for authentic flavor or imitation for vegetarian/vegan needs.
- Sodium level – Watch sodium content if limiting salt intake.
- Package size – Buy larger sizes for better value if you use bacon bits often.
- Added flavors – Opt for maple, peppered or lower sodium varieties to suit different tastes.
- Brand – Select reputable brands for quality and food safety.
- Price – Compare pricing between brands and sizes to find the best value.
Evaluating these factors will help you pick the bacon bits option that best fits your diet, taste preferences and budget.
Do-It-Yourself Bacon Bits
It’s also possible to easily make DIY bacon bits at home with just a few simple ingredients:
Ingredients
- Bacon slices or bacon ends and pieces
- Olive oil or avocado oil (optional)
- Seasonings like pepper, brown sugar or cayenne pepper (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper.
- Chop raw bacon into small 1/4″ pieces and add to prepared baking sheet.
- (Optional) Drizzle bacon lightly with oil and desired seasonings, tossing to coat.
- Bake 15-20 minutes until crispy. Rotate pan and stir halfway through.
- Let cool slightly. Store in an airtight container up to 1 week.
Making your own allows you to control ingredients and customize flavors. However, store-bought bacon bits offer convenience if time is limited.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are bacon bits considered a condiment?
Yes, bacon bits are generally categorized as a condiment due to their common usage as a flavorful topping or seasoning rather than a main dish ingredient. Their preparation method also resembles other condiments like croutons and salad sprinkles.
Do bacon bits need to be refrigerated?
Imitation bacon bits containing no actual animal products do not require refrigeration. However, real bacon bits made from cured pork belly should be refrigerated after opening to maximize freshness and prevent spoilage.
How long do bacon bits last?
Unopened bacon bits last 1-2 years in the pantry. Once opened, real bacon bits last 3-4 weeks refrigerated and imitation bits 6-12 months stored in a cool, dry area. All types can be frozen for 6-9 months for extended shelf life.
Can dogs eat bacon bits?
Both real and imitation bacon bits are not recommended for dogs. Their high salt content can cause gastrointestinal issues and may contain seasonings unsafe for dogs. Small amounts may be ok for some dogs, but they should not eat bacon bits regularly.
Are bacon bits Keto or Paleo diet approved?
Real bacon bits made solely from cured pork belly would be approved on Keto and Paleo diets since they contain no sugars or preservatives. However, imitation bacon bits or those with added flavors would not comply with these diets’ strict requirements.
Conclusion
Finding the perfect bacon bits to suit your needs is just a trip to the condiment aisle away. Look for brands that match your taste, diet and budget preferences. Add them to salads, bakes, burgers and more for an easy flavor boost. With proper storage, these crispy, salty sprinkles can make mealtimes more bacon-licious for months to come.
