Are you a fan of pizza or breakfast foods? If so, you’ve likely encountered the age-old debate of bacon versus pepperoni.
While both meats are delicious and flavorful, many people wonder which one is healthier. Is it the salty and savory bacon or the spicy and zesty pepperoni?
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the nutritional content of both meats and determine which one comes out on top in terms of health benefits.
So, grab a slice of pizza or a plate of eggs and let’s dive in!
Is Bacon Or Pepperoni Healthier?
When it comes to comparing bacon and pepperoni, there are a few key factors to consider. Let’s start with the macros.
In terms of calories, bacon actually has slightly more than pepperoni. Each 100g of bacon contains 556 calories, while pepperoni has 504 calories per 100g. However, when it comes to protein content, bacon comes out on top with 33.33 grams per 100 grams compared to pepperoni’s 19.25 grams.
When it comes to vitamins and minerals, both meats have their strengths. Pepperoni is a good source of vitamin B12 and choline, while bacon contains niacin, vitamin B12, and phosphorus. However, it’s important to note that both meats are high in sodium, with pepperoni containing 1582 mg per 100g and bacon containing 1833 mg per 100g.
Another important factor to consider is the fat content. Both bacon and pepperoni are high in saturated fat, which can increase your risk for heart disease and other health issues. One ounce of pepperoni contains 12.31 grams of total fat, 4.16 grams of which are saturated. A serving of sausage has 13.61 grams of total fat, 4.39 grams of which are saturated.
If you’re looking for a healthier alternative to these high-fat meats, consider swapping them out for turkey alternatives. Turkey pepperoni contains only 3.46 grams of fat per serving, while turkey sausage has just 5.95 grams of fat per serving.
Nutritional Content Of Bacon
Bacon is a popular breakfast food that is loved for its savory taste and crispy texture. It is also a good source of protein, containing 37 grams of high-quality animal protein per 100 grams of cooked bacon. Additionally, it contains several essential vitamins, including B1, B2, B3, B5, B6 and B12. These vitamins are important for maintaining a healthy metabolism and supporting the immune system.
Bacon is also rich in minerals such as selenium, phosphorus, iron, magnesium, zinc and potassium. These minerals play important roles in the body, such as supporting bone health, regulating blood pressure and maintaining a healthy nervous system.
However, it’s important to note that all the nutrients found in bacon are also found in other less processed pork products. While bacon may be a tasty treat, it should be consumed in moderation due to its high fat content. One slice of bacon contains 9.3 grams of fat and 3 grams of saturated fat. Excess consumption of saturated fat can increase your risk for heart disease and other health issues.
Health Benefits Of Bacon
Despite its reputation as an unhealthy food, bacon actually has several health benefits when consumed in moderation. For starters, bacon is a great source of high-quality animal protein, with a typical 100-gram serving containing 37 grams of protein. Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues in the body, and can help keep you feeling full and satisfied after a meal.
In addition to protein, bacon is also rich in several important vitamins and minerals. A 100-gram serving of cooked bacon contains vitamins B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, and B12, which are all important for various bodily functions such as energy production and brain function. Bacon also contains decent amounts of iron, magnesium, zinc, and potassium, which are essential for maintaining healthy bones, muscles, and immune function.
One of the most surprising health benefits of bacon is its healthy fat content. While it is true that bacon is high in fat, much of this fat is monounsaturated and mostly oleic acid, the same fatty acid found in olive oil that is good for heart health. In fact, 50% of the fat in bacon is monounsaturated. Bacon also contains saturated fat, which has been linked to heart disease by some health professionals. However, studies have not consistently proven this link and overall diet and lifestyle factors are more significant risks for heart disease. Additionally, a regular serving of bacon is relatively small so it’s unlikely to lead to overconsumption of saturated fats.
Finally, bacon is a low-carb food that can fit into many popular diets such as keto or low-carb diets. It contains almost no carbohydrates per serving and can be a satisfying addition to a meal without spiking blood sugar levels.
Nutritional Content Of Pepperoni
For those who enjoy the taste of pepperoni, it’s important to know the nutritional content of this popular meat. One ounce of pepperoni contains 0.3g total carbs and 0.3g net carbs, making it a low-carb option for those following a ketogenic or low-carb diet. It also contains 13.1g of fat, 5.5g of protein, and 143 calories.
It’s worth noting that while pepperoni may be low in carbs, it is high in sodium. One ounce of pepperoni contains 425mg of sodium, which is about 18% of the recommended daily intake. For those watching their sodium intake, it’s important to consume pepperoni in moderation.
In terms of vitamins and minerals, pepperoni is a good source of vitamin B12, which is important for maintaining healthy nerve and blood cells. It also contains choline, which plays a role in brain function and liver health.
Health Benefits Of Pepperoni
Pepperoni may not be the healthiest food choice, but it does offer some nutritional benefits. For starters, it is a good source of protein, with 100g of pepperoni containing 19.25g of protein. Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues in the body, and it also plays a role in hormone production and immune function.
Pepperoni is also a good source of vitamin B12, which is important for nerve function, red blood cell production, and DNA synthesis. One ounce of pepperoni contains 20% of the recommended daily intake of vitamin B12.
In addition to vitamin B12, pepperoni also contains selenium, an important antioxidant that helps to protect cells from damage caused by free radicals. Selenium also plays a role in immune function and thyroid hormone metabolism.
Pepperoni is also a source of other essential minerals like iron and zinc, which are important for maintaining healthy blood cells and supporting immune function.
While pepperoni does offer some nutritional benefits, it’s important to keep in mind that it’s high in calories, fat, and sodium. Consuming too much pepperoni can contribute to negative health consequences like weight gain and an increased risk of heart disease. It’s best to consume pepperoni in moderation as part of a well-balanced diet.
Moderation Is Key: How To Enjoy Bacon And Pepperoni In A Healthy Way
While it’s true that bacon and pepperoni are high in fat and sodium, they can still be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. One approach is to use them as a condiment or garnish rather than the main part of a meal. This allows you to enjoy their intense flavor without overdoing it on the fat and calories.
When cooking bacon, consider baking it in the oven or microwaving it instead of frying it. This can help reduce the amount of fat you consume. Additionally, aim for crispy bacon that will crumble easily over your meals and deliver an intense hit of flavor. Homemade bacon bits can also be made by cutting up a few slices of bacon to service several meals. The bacon can be spread out over days and sprinkled over salads, potatoes, rice, soup, and even vegetable dishes.
When it comes to pepperoni, consider using it sparingly as a topping on pizza or pasta dishes. You can also opt for turkey pepperoni as a healthier alternative with less fat and sodium.
Ultimately, moderation is key when it comes to enjoying these meats. While they may not be the healthiest options out there, they can still be enjoyed in small amounts as part of a balanced diet.