Wright Brand Bacon has been a staple in American kitchens since 1922, known for its thick-cut slices and robust flavor. This premium bacon is carefully crafted using a time-honored smoking process with real wood chips, resulting in a product that stands out from the crowd.
When properly stored in the refrigerator, an opened package of Wright Brand Thick Sliced Bacon typically lasts 1-2 weeks. The resealable packaging helps maintain freshness between uses, allowing consumers to enjoy the bacon’s quality over multiple meals. For longer storage, Wright Brand Bacon can be frozen for up to 6-8 months without significant loss of flavor or texture.
The longevity of Wright Brand Bacon is a testament to the company’s commitment to quality and tradition. Each slice is hand-selected and trimmed, ensuring consistency in both taste and appearance. This attention to detail has been a hallmark of the brand for over a century, earning it a loyal following among bacon enthusiasts.
Understanding Wright Brand Bacon
Wright Brand Bacon is known for its rich history, distinct flavors, and high-quality ingredients. This thick-cut bacon has been a breakfast staple for generations, offering a unique taste experience.
History and Tradition
Wright Brand Bacon traces its roots back to 1922 when Roy Wright and Fay Eggleston handcrafted their first batch. The company has maintained its dedication to tradition for over a century. Their commitment to quality and flavor has remained unchanged since the beginning.
The bacon-making process at Wright Brand follows time-honored techniques. These methods have been passed down through generations, ensuring consistency in taste and texture. The brand’s longevity in the market speaks to its unwavering focus on producing premium bacon products.
Signature Flavors
Wright Brand Bacon is renowned for its bold, smoky character. The brand offers two primary flavor profiles:
- Hickory Smoked
- Applewood Smoked
Both varieties are thick-cut, providing a substantial bite and rich taste. The hickory-smoked option imparts a robust, traditional bacon flavor. Applewood smoking lends a slightly sweeter, more delicate taste to the bacon.
The smoking process is carefully controlled to infuse each slice with the perfect amount of flavor. This attention to detail results in a consistently delicious product that bacon enthusiasts have come to expect from Wright Brand.
Quality Ingredients
Wright Brand Bacon starts with carefully selected pork bellies. The company chooses high-quality cuts to ensure the best flavor and texture in their final product.
The bacon undergoes a meticulous curing process. This step enhances the meat’s flavor and helps preserve it. After curing, the bacon is smoked using real wood, either hickory or applewood.
Wright Brand’s commitment to quality extends to their packaging as well. They use resealable packages that help maintain freshness and prevent leaks in the refrigerator. This thoughtful approach to packaging demonstrates the brand’s focus on customer satisfaction beyond just the bacon itself.
Shelf Life and Preservation
Wright Brand Thick Sliced Bacon offers a premium product with a specific shelf life. Proper storage and handling are crucial for maintaining its quality and safety.
Factors Affecting Freshness
Temperature plays a key role in bacon preservation. Refrigeration at 40°F or below slows bacterial growth. Packaging integrity is equally important. Unopened, vacuum-sealed bacon resists spoilage better than opened packages.
Moisture exposure can accelerate deterioration. Keep bacon dry and sealed to prevent mold growth. The bacon’s thickness also impacts shelf life. Thicker slices may last slightly longer due to lower surface area exposure.
Curing methods and additives influence longevity. Wright Brand uses natural hickory smoking, which contributes to preservation. Salt and nitrates in the curing process help extend shelf life.
Storing Unopened Bacon
Unopened Wright Brand Thick Sliced Bacon typically lasts 2-4 weeks in the refrigerator. Always check the “use by” date on the package. For longer storage, freezing is an option.
Frozen bacon can maintain quality for up to 6 months. Wrap the original package in foil or freezer paper to prevent freezer burn. Thaw frozen bacon in the refrigerator before use.
Store bacon away from strong-smelling foods to prevent odor absorption. Keep it in the coldest part of the fridge, usually the back of the bottom shelf.
Handling Cooked Bacon
Cooked Wright Brand Thick Sliced Bacon has a shorter shelf life than raw bacon. Refrigerate cooked bacon within two hours of preparation. Properly stored, it remains safe to eat for 4-5 days.
For longer storage, freeze cooked bacon. It maintains quality for up to 2 months when frozen. Wrap cooked slices in paper towels, then place in a freezer bag to prevent freezer burn.
Reheat frozen cooked bacon in the microwave or oven until hot. Use within 3-4 days after thawing. Discard cooked bacon if it develops an off odor, flavor, or appearance.
Health and Nutrition
Wright Brand Thick Sliced Bacon contains several key nutrients but is high in fat and sodium. The product uses specific preservatives to maintain quality and safety.
Nutritional Information
Wright Brand Thick Sliced Bacon provides 80 calories per pan-fried slice (14g serving). Each slice contains 7g of total fat, with 2g of saturated fat. The bacon is a good source of protein.
Sodium content is significant, as bacon is a cured meat product. Wright Brand uses sodium phosphate, sodium erythorbate, and sodium nitrite in the curing process.
A typical serving provides approximately 11% of the daily value for total fat and 10% for saturated fat, based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
Preservatives Used
Wright Brand Thick Sliced Bacon contains several preservatives to extend shelf life and maintain quality. Sodium phosphate helps retain moisture and improve texture.
Sodium erythorbate acts as an antioxidant, preserving color and flavor. It also accelerates curing and prevents formation of nitrosamines.
Sodium nitrite is crucial for curing. It inhibits bacterial growth, particularly Clostridium botulinum. It also contributes to bacon’s characteristic pink color and flavor.
These preservatives are approved by food safety authorities and used within regulated limits.
Preparation and Cooking Tips
Wright Brand Thick Sliced Bacon requires careful preparation to achieve optimal flavor and texture. Proper cooking techniques ensure a delicious result, whether served on its own or as part of various dishes.
Achieving the Perfect Crispiness
To cook Wright Brand Thick Sliced Bacon in the oven, preheat to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup. Arrange bacon slices in a single layer, avoiding overlap. Cook for 20-25 minutes, checking periodically after 15 minutes.
For crispier bacon, place it on a wire rack over the baking sheet. This allows hot air to circulate, resulting in even cooking. Flip the slices halfway through for uniform crispiness.
In an air fryer, cook at 400°F for 8-10 minutes. Check frequently to prevent burning, as cooking times may vary between models.
Serving Suggestions
Wright Brand Thick Sliced Bacon’s robust flavor complements many dishes. For a classic breakfast, pair it with eggs and toast. The smoky taste enhances a BLT sandwich, adding depth to the fresh ingredients.
Crumble cooked bacon over salads for a savory crunch. It’s an excellent addition to bacon cheeseburgers, providing texture and richness. Wrap asparagus or dates in bacon before baking for elegant appetizers.
For a sweet-savory treat, drizzle maple syrup over cooked bacon. Chop and sprinkle it over baked potatoes or creamy soups for added flavor and texture.
Culinary Uses and Pairings
Wright Brand Thick Sliced Bacon offers versatile culinary applications, enhancing both breakfast dishes and main courses with its robust flavor and satisfying texture.
Breakfast Combinations
Wright Brand Thick Sliced Bacon shines as a breakfast staple. Its hearty slices pair perfectly with scrambled eggs, creating a classic combination that starts the day right. For a indulgent treat, wrap bacon around asparagus spears before roasting.
French toast gains depth when topped with crispy bacon bits. Crumble the bacon into pancake batter for a savory twist on a sweet favorite. Bacon and cheese quiches benefit from the extra thickness, providing substantial bites throughout.
In breakfast sandwiches, the thick slices hold their own against hearty bread and melted cheese. Try it in a bacon, egg, and avocado wrap for a protein-packed meal.
Lunch and Dinner Creations
Beyond breakfast, Wright Brand Thick Sliced Bacon elevates lunch and dinner dishes. It’s a key player in the iconic BLT sandwich, where its substantial texture stands up to crisp lettuce and juicy tomatoes.
Bacon cheeseburgers reach new heights with these thick slices, adding a smoky crunch to each bite. Wrap it around scallops or shrimp for an elegant appetizer that’s sure to impress.
Crumble the bacon over salads for added flavor and texture. Use it to top baked potatoes or incorporate it into creamy pasta dishes. For a gourmet touch, weave the slices into a lattice and bake until crisp for an impressive garnish.
In soups and chowders, the bacon adds depth and richness. Its robust flavor complements hearty bean dishes and lends a savory note to vegetable sides like Brussels sprouts or green beans.
Brand and Product Line
Wright Brand Bacon, known for its thick-cut slices and bold flavors, offers a range of bacon varieties. The brand is owned by Tyson Foods and has maintained its reputation for quality since 1922.
Tyson Foods Ownership
Tyson Foods acquired Wright Brand Bacon, adding it to their portfolio of meat products. This acquisition allowed Wright Brand to expand its distribution while maintaining its traditional production methods. Tyson Foods, a major player in the food industry, provides resources and support to ensure Wright Brand Bacon meets high-quality standards. The partnership has enabled Wright Brand to reach more consumers across the United States.
Varieties of Wright Brand Bacon
Wright Brand Bacon offers several varieties to suit different tastes:
- Hickory Smoked Bacon: A classic flavor, naturally smoked with real hickory wood
- Applewood Smoked Bacon: Infused with a slightly sweet, fruity taste
- Wood Smoked Bacon: Uses a blend of wood types for a complex smoky flavor
All varieties come in thick-cut slices, a hallmark of the brand. Wright Brand emphasizes hand-trimming and real wood smoking in their production process. These methods contribute to the bacon’s rich taste and texture.
