Canadian Bacon Day is an annual celebration dedicated to the beloved breakfast meat known as Canadian bacon. Despite its name, it’s called “back bacon” in Canada and is made from pork loin, making it leaner and more tender than traditional American bacon.
Quick Facts
- When is it: March 3rd annually
- Tagged as: Food Holiday, Breakfast Holiday
- What’s the hashtag: #NationalCanadianBaconDay
- When was it founded: 2015
- Who founded it: Unknown
History of Canadian Bacon
Canadian bacon emerged during a 19th-century pork shortage when the UK began importing lean pork from Canada. Originally known as peameal bacon because it was rolled in ground yellow peas for preservation, it gained popularity in the United States where it became known as “Canadian bacon.”
Timeline
- 4900 BC: Chinese begin domesticating pigs
- 1500 BC: Chinese start salting pork bellies
- 1800s: Peameal bacon emerges in Canada
- 1930s: Gains popularity in the United States
- 2015: National Canadian Bacon Day established
Canadian Bacon Day Dates
| Year | Month and Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | March 3 | Monday |
| 2026 | March 3 | Tuesday |
| 2027 | March 3 | Wednesday |
| 2028 | March 3 | Friday |
| 2029 | March 3 | Saturday |
| 2030 | March 3 | Sunday |
How Canadian Bacon Day is Observed
People celebrate by enjoying Canadian bacon in various dishes, particularly breakfast combinations like Eggs Benedict or homemade egg muffins. Many share their celebrations on social media and organize breakfast gatherings with friends and family.
Restaurants and local businesses often offer special bacon dishes or discounts, inspiring people to try new bacon-infused treats or showcase their own culinary creations.
Some enthusiasts even host Canadian-themed parties, incorporating other Canadian foods and traditions into their celebrations.
Fun Facts About Canadian Bacon
- It’s leaner than regular bacon with only 60 calories per serving
- In Canada, it’s called “back bacon” or “peameal bacon”
- It’s fully cooked during the curing process
- The meat comes from the pork loin rather than the belly
- It’s considered healthier than regular bacon due to lower fat content
Quiz
- What was Canadian bacon originally rolled in?
- What is Canadian bacon called in Canada?
- Which part of the pig does Canadian bacon come from?
- In which year was Canadian Bacon Day established?
- What is the hashtag used for Canadian Bacon Day?
(Answers: 1. Yellow peas 2. Back bacon or peameal bacon 3. Loin 4. 2015 5. #NationalCanadianBaconDay)
FAQs
Is Canadian bacon healthier than regular bacon?
Yes, it contains less fat and more protein.
Can you eat it without cooking?
Yes, it’s fully cooked during curing.
What’s the difference between Canadian bacon and ham?
Canadian bacon comes from the loin, while ham comes from the legs.
How is Canadian bacon typically served?
It’s often served as part of breakfast dishes or used in sandwiches and pizzas.
Is Canadian bacon actually from Canada?
While it originated in Canada, the term “Canadian bacon” is more commonly used in the United States.
Importance of Canadian Bacon Day
Canadian Bacon Day provides an opportunity to celebrate a unique culinary tradition that has crossed borders and become a beloved breakfast staple in many countries.
It highlights the cultural exchange between Canada and other nations, particularly the United States, showcasing how food can become an ambassador for cultural understanding.
The day also promotes awareness about different types of bacon and encourages people to explore various culinary traditions, fostering a greater appreciation for diverse food cultures.
Related Holidays
- International Bacon Day
- National Bacon Day
- National Breakfast Month
- National Pork Month
- National Sandwich Day