A Guide to Everyone's Favorite Pork Product: What is Bacon? One of the most popular foods in many different cultures and cuisines is bacon. For centuries, people have used this savory and salty pork product as a mainstay for breakfast, adding it to a variety of dishes such as salads, sandwiches, and pizza. But let's find out: what is bacon really like, and how is it made? A Synopsis of Bacon's History. Although the exact origin of bacon is unknown, the process of curing pork belly has been done for thousands of years. As early as 1500 BC, the Chinese were curing their pig bellies, and the Romans contributed to the expansion of bacon production throughout Europe. One of the first meats that European settlers carried to the Americas was bacon, which rose to popularity in England in the 1500s. Different Germanic and French dialects are the source of the term "bacon.". English "bacoun" eventually evolved from Old High German "bakkon.". It is evident that bacon has long been a global favorite! What Makes Bacon: The foundation of traditional bacon is the fatty underbelly of the pig, known as the pork belly, which contains a mottled mixture of fat and meat. Additional bacon cuts are from the side, back, or pig loin. Instead of using pork, turkey or chicken bacon uses cuts from the birds. Salt, nitrates, nitrites, and occasionally sugar or maple syrup are used to cure, preserve, and flavor pork belly. After that, it is gently smoked for days at a low heat over a wood fire. As the bacon cooks, this adds smoky notes that are irresistible. It's finally sliced and packaged for our bacon-loving enjoyment! Bacon types. Some common types of bacon are as follows: Streaky bacon: Made from pork belly with long fat veins, this type of bacon is not made equally. This bacon is most commonly prepared "American-style.". Back bacon is made from the loin located at the back of the pig. Compared to streaky bacon, it's leaner.