Kirkland Signature Thick Sliced Center Cut Bacon

Common questions

Is Kirkland Signature Thick Sliced Center Cut Bacon healthy?

Kirkland Signature Thick Sliced Center Cut Bacon scores 60/100 on Scout's independent analysis of ingredients, additives, and lab results — a fair-to-good score — solid, with tradeoffs. This bacon product is processed and contains several additives, including sodium phosphate and sodium nitrite, which are used for preservation and moisture retention but have potential health concerns.

How processed is Kirkland Signature Thick Sliced Center Cut Bacon?

Kirkland Signature Thick Sliced Center Cut Bacon is NOVA Group 3: Processed Foods.

Which ingredients drive Kirkland Signature Thick Sliced Center Cut Bacon's score?

In Scout's ingredient-by-ingredient analysis, Sugar, Sodium Phosphate, Sodium Nitrite are flagged as ingredients of concern. The full breakdown, with why each one matters, is in the Key ingredients section on this page.

You might also like

More from Kirkland Signature

See more

Kirkland Signature Thick Sliced Center Cut Bacon

Kirkland Signature
60 Fair

Analysis updated October 2026 · How Scout scores

View on Amazon

Near you

Kirkland Signature is carried at Costco stores. Find one within 25 miles.

At a glance

Beneficial ingredients 0
Harmful ingredients 3
Owned by Costco
Category Meat and Seafood
Summary

This bacon product is processed and contains several additives, including sodium phosphate and sodium nitrite, which are used for preservation and moisture retention but have potential health concerns. The presence of sugar as an ingredient also contributes to a lower score due to its refined nature and lack of essential nutrients. While it provides protein, the processing level and additives limit its healthfulness compared to less processed meat options.

Key ingredients 7

Pork
Neutral

Pork is a primary source of protein and fats in bacon. It provides essential amino acids and energy. However, it is often processed with additives in bacon products.

Risks

Processed pork products may contain high levels of sodium and preservatives.

Benefits

Provides a good source of protein and essential nutrients like B vitamins.

See more about Pork →
Water
Neutral

Water is used in bacon processing to maintain moisture and texture. It is a neutral ingredient with no direct health impact. Its presence helps in the distribution of curing agents.

See more about Water →
Salt
Neutral

Salt is used as a preservative and flavor enhancer in bacon. It is a common ingredient in processed meats. Excessive consumption can lead to health issues like hypertension.

Risks

High sodium intake is associated with increased risk of hypertension and cardiovascular diseases.

See more about Salt →
Sodium Erythorbate
Neutral

Sodium erythorbate is used as an antioxidant to preserve color and flavor in processed meats. It is a synthetic compound derived from sugar. Generally recognized as safe in regulated amounts.

Benefits

Helps maintain the color and flavor of processed meats.

Sugar
Bad

Sugar is used in bacon for flavor and to aid in the curing process. It is a refined carbohydrate with no essential nutrients. Excessive sugar intake is linked to various health issues.

Risks

High sugar consumption can lead to obesity, diabetes, and other metabolic disorders.

See more about Sugar →
Sodium Phosphate
Bad

Sodium phosphate is used as a preservative and to retain moisture in processed meats. It is a synthetic additive with potential health concerns. Overconsumption can affect kidney function and calcium balance.

Risks

Excessive intake may lead to imbalances in calcium and phosphorus, affecting bone health.

See more about Sodium Phosphate →
Sodium Nitrite
Bad

Sodium nitrite is used as a preservative and color fixative in cured meats. It can form nitrosamines, which are potential carcinogens, during cooking. Its use is controversial due to health concerns.

Risks

Potential formation of carcinogenic nitrosamines during high-temperature cooking.

Benefits

Helps prevent bacterial growth and maintains the pink color of cured meats.

See more about Sodium Nitrite →

Processing

Group 3 · Processed

Processed Foods

Get the full breakdown in the Scout appTake Scout shopping

Scan any product to see lab results, healthy alternatives, and your personalized analysis.

Download on theApp Store GET IT ONGoogle Play

More in Meat and Seafood