Bacon

Protein, B vitamins.

Crispy bacon strips
Photo: Mikey Frost on Unsplash
Category
Eat Less Often
Plate rating
25/100
Glycemic index
≈0 (no carbs)
Processed meat.

The WHO's cancer agency (IARC) classifies processed meat — meat that is salted, cured, fermented or smoked — as carcinogenic to humans, with risk rising with the amount eaten.

Medicine note: Tyramine foods and MAOI antidepressants

Aged, smoked or fermented foods can cause a dangerous reaction with MAOIs. Read more.

What bacon offers

  • Protein
  • B vitamins

When to eat it

Rarely.

Tip

Processed meats (bacon, turkey bacon, hot dogs) are classified by WHO/IARC as carcinogenic — keep them occasional

Blood sugar

Contains little or no carbohydrate, so it has almost no direct effect on blood sugar. GI values are approximate and vary with ripeness, variety and preparation. If you manage diabetes, ask your care team how this food fits your plan.

More foods to eat less often

PizzaSome protein and calciumEat Less OftenMedicine note
BurgerProtein, ironEat Less Often
Ice CreamCalcium, some proteinEat Less OftenMedicine note
ChipsMinimal - some energyEat Less Often
FriesMinimal - some potassiumEat Less Often
Hot DogSome proteinEat Less OftenMedicine note

Sources

Last reviewed October 2026. How we rate foods.

General information only, not medical advice. If you take medicine or manage a health condition, check with your doctor, pharmacist or a registered dietitian before changing your diet. Read our medical disclaimer.