How Many Slices of Bacon Are in a 16 Ounce Package?

Bacon is a delicious and popular breakfast food that many people enjoy. But when you buy a package of bacon at the store how many actual slices of bacon are you getting? The answer depends on a few factors. In this article we’ll break down how many slices of bacon come in different 16 ounce packages.

Factors That Affect Bacon Slice Count

There are a few key factors that impact how many slices of bacon come in a 16 ounce pack:

• Brand – Different bacon brands have slightly different slice sizes, thicknesses, and cutting styles that change the slice count

• Thick or Thin Cut – Thinner sliced bacon will have more slices per pound than thick cut bacon slices.

• Cured or Uncured – Uncured bacon shrinks more when cooked so you may get fewer cooked slices per pound.

• Cooking Method – Frying reduces the weight more than baking so you may get more pre-cooked slices per pound.

So the brand, cut, curing method, and cooking approach all play a role in the final cooked slice count you get per package.

Average Bacon Slice Count Per 16 Ounce Package

The most common bacon packaging size is 16 ounces (1 pound). Within this size package, the average slice count ranges from:

• 18 to 22 slices – For name brand mass market bacon like Oscar Mayer or Hormel. This accounts for thick and thin sliced bacon.

• 25 to 30 slices – For store brand or boutique bacon that tend to be thinner sliced.

So if you buy a typical 16 ounce package of bacon at the grocery store, expect approximately 18 to 30 slices depending on the factors mentioned earlier. Thinner sliced bacon will be at the higher end while thick cut bacon is closer to 18 slices per pound.

Here is a breakdown for some popular 16 ounce bacon options:

• Oscar Mayer Original Bacon – 18 slices
• Oscar Mayer Naturally Hardwood Smoked Bacon – 18 slices
• Hormel Black Label Bacon – 20 slices
• Smithfield Thick Cut Bacon – 14 to 16 slices
• 365 Everyday Value Thin Sliced Bacon – 28 slices
• Nueske’s Applewood Smoked Bacon – 25 slices

As you can see, thinner sliced bacon packs in more slices per pound, while thick cut bacon has fewer slices.

Getting the Most Bacon Slice Count Per Package

If you want to maximize the number of bacon slices you get per package here are a few tips

• Choose thin sliced rather than thick cut bacon
• Select store brand or boutique bacon over mainstream brands
• Buy uncured bacon instead of cured (less shrinkage)
• Opt for baking instead of frying (less moisture loss)

Combining these approaches can help you get 25 to 30 slices or more out of a 16 ounce bacon package.

Buying Less Than 16 Ounces of Bacon

While 16 ounces is the most common size, you can also find smaller bacon packages including:

• 12 ounce package – About 15 slices
• 8 ounce package – 10 slices
• 5 ounce package – 6 to 8 slices

The slice count per pound stays roughly the same, but the total slices is reduced based on the smaller package size. This lets you buy just what you need.

Storing Leftover Bacon

For leftover bacon, the ideal storage method is to:

• Allow cooked bacon to cool completely
• Place bacon slices in a ziploc freezer bag
• Remove as much air as possible and seal the bag
• Store in the refrigerator for 3-4 days or in the freezer for 1-2 months

This ensures your leftover bacon stays fresh and ready for your next meal.

Get Sizzling with Bacon’s Versatile Flavor

Armed with a better knowledge of how many slices come in a 16 ounce package, you can better plan your bacon needs. Bacon is so versatile – as a breakfast side, on sandwiches and burgers, in salads and appetizers. Now you can cook and serve just the right amount of slices for any recipe. So get sizzling with bacon’s signature savory flavor to elevate all types of dishes!