Calories in Bacon: Full Nutrition Breakdown
One pan-fried slice of bacon has about 43 calories. See the full nutrition breakdown by serving size with FAQ.
Bacon is one of the most popular cured meats, known for its smoky, salty flavor and crispy texture. While it is calorie-dense by weight, individual slices are relatively small, making portion awareness the key to including bacon in a balanced diet. Here is a complete breakdown of bacon nutrition by serving size.
Calories by serving (cured, pan-fried):
| Serving | Weight | Calories | Protein | Total Fat | Sodium | Cholesterol |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 slice | ~8 g | 43 kcal | 3 g | 3.3 g | 185 mg | 9 mg |
| 2 slices | ~16 g | 86 kcal | 6 g | 6.6 g | 370 mg | 18 mg |
| 3 slices | ~24 g | 129 kcal | 9 g | 9.9 g | 555 mg | 27 mg |
| 4 slices | ~32 g | 172 kcal | 12 g | 13.2 g | 740 mg | 36 mg |
| 1 oz | ~28 g | 150 kcal | 11 g | 11.5 g | 648 mg | 31 mg |
Bacon is a source of protein, B vitamins (especially B12 and niacin), phosphorus, and selenium. However, its high sodium and saturated fat content means it is best consumed in moderation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How many calories are in one slice of bacon?
One standard pan-fried slice of cured bacon (about 8 grams cooked) contains approximately 43 calories, with 3 grams of protein and 3.3 grams of fat. Thick-cut bacon slices are larger and can contain 60-75 calories per slice depending on their size and how crispy they are cooked.
How does turkey bacon compare to regular bacon in calories?
A slice of turkey bacon has about 30 calories compared to 43 calories for a slice of regular pork bacon. Turkey bacon is lower in fat (about 2 grams vs 3.3 grams per slice) and has slightly less sodium. However, turkey bacon is a more processed product and may contain added sugars and fillers not found in traditional pork bacon.
What is the difference between center-cut and regular bacon?
Center-cut bacon is trimmed of much of the fatty ends, resulting in about 25-30% fewer calories per slice — roughly 30 calories versus 43 for regular bacon. Center-cut slices also have less total fat (about 2 grams vs 3.3 grams per slice) and less sodium, making them a leaner alternative while retaining the familiar bacon flavor.
Is bacon unhealthy?
Bacon is a processed meat high in sodium and saturated fat, and organizations like the WHO classify processed meats as a Group 1 carcinogen when consumed regularly in large amounts. In moderate quantities — a few slices per week — bacon can fit into an otherwise balanced diet. The key concerns are its sodium content (185 mg per slice) and the presence of nitrates used in curing.
Does crispy bacon have fewer calories than chewy bacon?
Crispy bacon has slightly fewer calories per slice than chewy bacon because more fat renders out during longer cooking. The difference is modest — roughly 5-10 calories per slice. A well-done crispy slice may weigh 6-7 grams compared to 8-9 grams for a chewier slice, with the lost weight being almost entirely rendered fat.
How many calories are in one slice of bacon?
How does turkey bacon compare to regular bacon in calories?
What is the difference between center-cut and regular bacon?
Is bacon unhealthy?
Does crispy bacon have fewer calories than chewy bacon?
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