SMITHFIELD, VA. — Smithfield Culinary, the foodservice focused subsidiary of Smithfield Foods Inc., announced its latest creation, the Smithfield Select Bacon, a fully cooked ready-to-eat option.

Insights from Smithfield showed that foodservice operators traditionally faced the challenge of balancing convenience with the quality and flavor that customers demand. The producer feels that Select Bacon products can deliver a sensory experience while reducing time, labor, and costs.

“We developed Smithfield Select Bacon in response to the growing need for premium quality fully cooked bacon that not only satisfies the senses but also alleviates the workload in busy kitchens,” said Edward Wayda, marketing director at Smithfield Culinary. “These ready-to-eat options allow operators to delight their guests with high-quality, flavorful bacon in a fraction of the time and with minimal mess.”

A recent Smithfield Culinary Guest Check survey stated that 71% of diners said that everything tastes better with bacon. With demand increasing, Select Bacon allows foodservice operators to meet consumer needs while optimizing back-of-house operations.

“The bacon can be heated in the microwave or on a flat top, ensuring quick and easy preparation,” the company said. “Operators can now deliver the same superior flavor and value they’ve come to expect from Smithfield Culinary, in a more convenient, ready-to-serve format.”

The pork processor highlighted some of the product attributes, including consistent bacon qualities, rich color, satisfying crunch, and savory taste. Next, they explained how the product can be ready in seconds, eliminating the need for time-consuming preparation and clean-up and allowing chefs to heat and serve. Making the product versatile also helps with many different menu applications, from breakfast platters to sandwiches.

Finally, operators can depend on the Smithfield Select Bacon’s 360-day shelf life, the company said.

Smithfield Select Fully Cooked Bacon is part of Smithfield’s line of premium bacon products, which also features ready-to-cook premium bacon items like Smithfield Honey Cured Bacon, Smithfield Pepper-Encrusted Bacon and Smithfield Log Smoked Bacon.