Applegate Organic Uncured Sunday Bacon brings the classic taste of hardwood-smoked bacon to your breakfast table any day of the week. This natural, uncured bacon is made from pork sourced from family farms where animals are raised with care and respect. Applegate’s commitment to high-quality, organic ingredients results in a flavorful bacon free from GMOs and artificial additives.
The cooking process for this bacon is simple and versatile. It can be pan-fried over medium-low heat for even cooking and desired crispness, or microwaved for a quick preparation. The hickory smoke flavor enhances a variety of dishes beyond breakfast, making it a versatile ingredient for sandwiches, salads, and more.
Real food has a story, and Applegate’s Sunday Bacon tells one of tradition and quality. For over 30 years, Applegate has produced natural and organic meats, maintaining high standards in animal welfare and product integrity. This bacon exemplifies their dedication to providing consumers with wholesome, flavorful options for everyday meals.
About Applegate
Applegate is a leading natural and organic meat company known for its high-quality products and commitment to sustainable practices. The company focuses on producing meats without artificial ingredients, fillers, or GMOs.
History and Values
Applegate was founded in 1987 by Stephen McDonnell with a mission to create cleaner, healthier meat products. The company started as a small operation selling natural deli meats and has since grown into a major player in the natural and organic meat industry. Applegate’s core values include transparency, animal welfare, and environmental stewardship.
The brand has expanded its product line over the years to include bacon, hot dogs, sausages, and deli meats. Applegate Organics, a sub-brand launched in 2006, offers USDA certified organic options.
Applegate Humanely Raised Standards
Applegate’s Humanely Raised program sets strict standards for animal welfare. These guidelines ensure that animals are raised in environments that promote natural growth and behavior. The company works with independent family farms that share its commitment to humane practices.
Key aspects of the program include:
- No antibiotics or growth hormones
- Access to outdoors and pasture for grazing animals
- Vegetarian feed without animal by-products
- No gestation crates for pigs
Applegate regularly audits its partner farms to ensure compliance with these standards. This commitment to animal welfare extends to all products, including their popular Hardwood Smoked Bacon.
Product Highlights
Applegate Organic Uncured Sunday Bacon offers premium quality with a focus on ethical and health-conscious production methods. This bacon stands out for its organic ingredients and commitment to animal welfare.
Claim to Fame
Applegate Organic Uncured Sunday Bacon is made from pork raised without antibiotics or growth promotants. The pigs are fed organic vegetarian diets and allowed to grow at their natural rate. This bacon contains no chemical nitrates or nitrites, ensuring a cleaner ingredient list.
The product is hickory smoked for a rich, traditional flavor. It’s fully cooked, making it convenient for quick meal preparation. The bacon can be easily heated in the microwave, reducing mess and cooking time.
Certifications and Compliance
This bacon carries the USDA Organic certification, guaranteeing adherence to strict organic standards. It’s produced in compliance with Applegate’s Humanely Raised standards, which prohibit the use of crates and provide environmental enrichments for the animals.
The product is casein-free and gluten-free, catering to various dietary needs. It meets Prop 12 requirements for animal welfare. Applegate’s commitment extends beyond the farm, focusing on sustainable practices throughout the production process.
Health and Nutrition
Applegate Organic Uncured Sunday Bacon offers a flavorful option with some nutritional benefits. This bacon contains minimal ingredients and is made without chemical nitrites.
Ingredients Breakdown
Organic pork forms the base of this bacon. The pigs are raised without antibiotics or animal by-products. Sea salt is used for flavoring and preservation.
Celery powder provides natural nitrates. Cane sugar adds a touch of sweetness. Water helps in the curing process.
The bacon contains no artificial preservatives or chemical nitrites. This makes it a cleaner choice compared to conventional bacon options.
Serving Suggestions
A typical serving size is 2 pan-fried slices, providing about 70 calories. The bacon contains 6 grams of protein per serving.
It’s low in carbohydrates, with 0 grams of sugar. The fat content is moderate at 6 grams per serving.
For a lighter option, try microwaving the bacon on paper towels. This method can reduce some of the fat content.
Pair the bacon with eggs and whole grain toast for a protein-rich breakfast. Add crumbled bacon to salads for extra flavor without excessive calories.
Raising Practices
Applegate’s Organic Uncured Sunday Bacon comes from pigs raised with stringent standards for feed, growth, and animal welfare. These practices prioritize the health and natural behaviors of the animals.
Feed and Growth
Applegate’s organic pork is raised on 100% vegetarian diets. The feed contains no animal by-products, ensuring a natural and wholesome diet. This approach supports healthy growth without the use of antibiotics or growth hormones.
Pigs are given more time with their mothers and experience a longer weaning period. This allows for proper development and reduces stress. The animals have access to organic pasture, promoting natural behaviors and muscle development.
Animal Welfare
Applegate adheres to strict animal welfare standards. Pigs are never kept in crates, allowing freedom of movement. More solid flooring is provided, which reduces injury and stress.
The company follows Proposition 12 guidelines, ensuring minimum space requirements for breeding pigs. This allows the animals to turn around freely and extend their limbs without touching enclosure sides.
Applegate’s “No Antibiotics Ever” policy means pigs are raised without routine antibiotic use. If an animal requires treatment, it is removed from the organic program. This practice helps prevent the development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria.
Culinary Experience
Applegate Organic Uncured Sunday Bacon offers versatile cooking options and a distinct flavor profile. This premium bacon product can be prepared using various methods to achieve desired crispness and taste.
Cooking Instructions
Pan frying is the preferred method for cooking Applegate Organic Uncured Sunday Bacon. Use medium-low to medium heat and turn the slices frequently to ensure even cooking without burning. This technique allows for optimal control over the bacon’s crispness.
For a quicker preparation, microwave cooking is an option. Place bacon slices on paper towels on a microwave-safe plate, cover with another paper towel, and cook on high. Cooking times vary based on the number of slices:
- 2 slices: 1-2 minutes
- 4 slices: 2-3 minutes
Adjust cooking time to achieve desired crispness. Drain cooked bacon on paper towels to remove excess fat.
Flavor Profile
Applegate Organic Uncured Sunday Bacon boasts a rich, savory taste characteristic of high-quality pork. The organic farming practices contribute to its clean, natural flavor without artificial additives or preservatives.
The bacon’s flavor is enhanced by its careful curing process, which uses minimal ingredients. This results in a less salty taste compared to conventional bacon, allowing the pork’s natural flavors to shine through.
When cooked, the bacon develops a pleasant smokiness and a satisfying balance of meat and fat. Its texture ranges from chewy to crisp, depending on cooking method and duration. The bacon’s versatile flavor profile makes it suitable for various dishes, from breakfast classics to gourmet recipes.
Allergen Information
Applegate Organic Uncured Sunday Bacon is free from many common allergens. The product’s allergen profile and safety measures are important considerations for consumers with dietary restrictions or sensitivities.
Safety Measures
Applegate maintains strict protocols to prevent cross-contamination during production. The facility adheres to Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs) and implements Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point (HACCP) systems. These measures help minimize the risk of allergen exposure.
Employees receive regular training on allergen management. This includes proper handling of ingredients, cleaning procedures, and equipment maintenance. The company also conducts frequent allergen testing to ensure product safety.
Applegate uses dedicated production lines for their bacon products. This reduces the likelihood of contact with potential allergens from other food items.
Allergen-Free Claims
Applegate Organic Uncured Sunday Bacon is free from several major allergens. It contains no gluten, making it safe for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity. The product is also free from soy, dairy, and nuts.
The bacon does not contain eggs, fish, or crustaceans. It is produced without the use of peanuts or tree nuts. Sesame seeds are not present in the ingredients or manufacturing process.
Consumers should note that while the bacon itself is allergen-free, it may be processed in a facility that handles other allergens. The product packaging provides clear allergen information for consumer reference.
Consumer Guidance
Applegate Organic Uncured Sunday Bacon requires proper handling and storage. Consumers should be aware of packaging features and shelf life to ensure optimal quality and safety.
Storage and Shelf Life
Refrigerate Applegate Organic Uncured Sunday Bacon immediately after purchase. Store unopened packages in the refrigerator at 40°F or below for up to 14 days. Once opened, consume within 7 days for best quality.
Freeze unopened bacon for longer storage, up to 6 months. Thaw frozen bacon in the refrigerator overnight before use.
Always check the “use by” date on the package. Discard bacon if it develops an off odor, slimy texture, or unusual discoloration.
Packaging
Applegate Organic Uncured Sunday Bacon comes in vacuum-sealed packages to maintain freshness. Each package typically contains 8 ounces of bacon.
The packaging is designed to be resealable, allowing easy access while keeping the remaining bacon fresh. Look for the easy-open tab on the package for convenient handling.
The label provides essential information, including ingredients, nutrition facts, and cooking instructions. It also highlights the organic certification and absence of nitrates or nitrites.
Sustainability Efforts
Applegate Organic Uncured Sunday Bacon prioritizes environmental responsibility and animal welfare. The company implements practices that reduce ecological impact and ensure ethical treatment of animals throughout their supply chain.
Impact on Environment
Applegate focuses on reducing its carbon footprint in bacon production. The company uses energy-efficient equipment and optimizes transportation routes to minimize fuel consumption.
They prioritize sustainable packaging, opting for recyclable materials when possible. Applegate also works with farmers who employ regenerative agriculture practices, promoting soil health and biodiversity.
Water conservation efforts are implemented in processing facilities, with advanced filtration systems to reduce waste. The company avoids chemical nitrates in their uncured bacon, opting for natural alternatives like celery powder.
Commitment to Future
Applegate’s long-term sustainability goals include improving animal welfare standards. They prohibit tail docking for pigs and support humane housing for laying hens used in other product lines.
The company invests in research to develop more sustainable feed options for livestock. They aim to reduce antibiotic use in animal farming through improved living conditions and natural health interventions.
Applegate collaborates with environmental organizations to assess and improve their ecological impact. They set targets for reducing greenhouse gas emissions across their supply chain, including feed production and transportation.
The company educates consumers about sustainable food choices through transparent labeling and marketing campaigns. They also support small-scale farmers transitioning to organic and sustainable practices.
Customer Reviews
Applegate Organic Uncured Sunday Bacon has garnered mostly positive feedback from consumers. Many reviewers praise its taste and quality.
On Amazon, customers have given this bacon high ratings. They appreciate its natural ingredients and lack of artificial additives.
Influenster reviews show an impressive 4.71 out of 5 stars rating. Customers frequently mention the bacon’s clean ingredient list and superior flavor.
Some key points from customer reviews:
- Delicious taste
- High-quality pork
- No artificial ingredients
- Humanely raised animals
- Gluten-free and casein-free
A few reviewers note the higher price point compared to conventional bacon. However, most feel the quality justifies the cost.
Some customers specifically mention choosing this bacon for health reasons. They appreciate the organic certification and absence of nitrates or nitrites.
Texture is another point of praise. Many reviewers describe the bacon as crispy when cooked, with a good balance of meat and fat.
While overwhelmingly positive, a small number of reviews mention inconsistency in slice thickness or packaging issues. These complaints are relatively rare.