According to a new Guest Check survey from Smithfield Culinary in celebration of International Bacon Day on Saturday, August 31, diners have a passion for bacon, presenting significant opportunities for foodservice operators to capitalize on this enthusiasm.   

The leading producer of premium proteins is unveiling insights into Americans’ bacon preferences when dining away from home. It’s a fundamental ingredient in the eyes of many, with 71 percent of those surveyed saying “everything tastes better with bacon.” Additionally, 57 percent of diners say they’d eat bacon every day if they could, and over half (55 percent) can’t resist the temptation of bacon when dining out.

Those surveyed made it clear that bacon is a fundamental ingredient in their eyes. Well over half of all diners (56 percent) see bacon as a key ingredient in other dishes, while nearly 7-in-10 (69 percent) diners consider it a side dish that pairs well with other food.

Bacon has plenty of potential on menus. Operators can maximize their offerings by providing diners with numerous opportunities to customize with bacon and experiment with it in creative ways. Smithfield Culinary’s survey found that Millennials are the most adventurous with bacon, with 66 percent willing to try a unique bacon-infused menu item. Some creative and successful ways operators have incorporated it into their menus include bacon milkshakes, bacon donuts and bacon cakes.

“Bacon is one of those foods that has a cult-like following, but this new data gives operators valuable insights to innovate their menus and enhance their communication with customers about their food preferences,” says Edward Wayda, marketing director at Smithfield Culinary. “At Smithfield, we simplify the process for operators to meet customer cravings by offering a diverse selection of bacon products, ranging from fully cooked strips, chips and bits to ready-to-cook solutions. With a variety of options, bacon lovers will keep coming back for more.”