Pork belly

Pork belly

Meat

Item Rating: 53/100

1 serving (100 grams) contains 518 calories, 9.3 grams of protein, 53.0 grams of fat, and 0.0 grams of carbohydrates.

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1233.3
calories
22.1
protein
0
carbohydrates
126.2
fat

Nutrition Information

1 cup (238.1g)
Calories
1233.3
% Daily Value*
Total Fat 126.2 g 161%
Saturated Fat 45.2 g 226%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0 g
Cholesterol 171.4 mg 57%
Sodium 61.9 mg 2%
Total Carbohydrates 0 g 0%
Dietary Fiber 0 g 0%
Sugars 0 g
protein 22.1 g 44%
Vitamin D 0 mcg 0%
Calcium 14.3 mg 1%
Iron 1.0 mg 5%
Potassium 302.4 mg 6%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Food Attributes

🥓 Keto friendly
🍯 Low sugar
🧂 Low sodium
🧂 Low salt
🧈 High saturated fat
🍞 Low carbs

Source of Calories

0.0%
7.2%
92.8%
Fat: 1135 cal (92.8%)
Protein: 88 cal (7.2%)
Carbs: 0 cal (0.0%)

About Pork belly

Pork belly is a boneless, fatty cut of meat from the belly or underside of a pig. It is integral to many cuisines worldwide, such as Chinese, Korean, and Italian, often used in dishes like braised pork belly, samgyeopsal, or pancetta. This cut is prized for its rich flavor and tender texture when cooked properly. Nutritionally, pork belly is a notable source of protein and fat, particularly unsaturated fat and omega-6 fatty acids. It also contains vitamin B12, zinc, and iron, essential for metabolic health, immune function, and oxygen transport within the body. However, because of its high fat content, pork belly is calorically dense, making portion control important for balanced diets.

Health Benefits

  • Provides protein (approximately 15g per 100g) to support muscle repair and growth.
  • Contains vitamin B12, which helps maintain healthy nerve function and red blood cell formation.
  • Delivers zinc (about 2mg per 100g), which plays a critical role in immune health and wound healing.

Dietary Considerations

Allergens: None known
Suitable for: Low-carb diets, paleo diet
Not suitable for: Vegan diet, vegetarian diet, kosher diet

Selection and Storage

Store raw pork belly in the refrigerator at 40°F (4°C) or below and consume within 3-5 days. For long-term storage, freeze in an airtight container.

Common Questions About Pork belly Nutrition

Is pork belly high in protein?

Yes, pork belly contains a moderate amount of protein, with approximately 9-12 grams of protein per 100 grams depending on preparation. However, it is also very high in fat, making it calorie dense, so it should be eaten in moderation if protein is your primary goal.

Can I eat pork belly on a keto diet?

Yes, pork belly is an excellent choice for a keto diet due to its high fat content and low carbohydrate content. A 100-gram serving of pork belly contains virtually no carbs, making it ideal for those adhering to a strict low-carb regimen.

What are the health benefits or concerns of eating pork belly?

Pork belly provides essential nutrients like B vitamins (especially B1 and B6) and zinc, which support energy metabolism and immune health. However, it is very high in saturated fat and cholesterol, which may contribute to heart disease if consumed in excess, so it should be eaten in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

What is a recommended portion size for pork belly?

A standard portion size of pork belly is around 3-4 ounces (85-113 grams), which provides around 300-400 calories depending on how it is prepared. Since it is calorie dense and high in fat, pairing it with lighter, non-fatty side dishes like vegetables is ideal.

How does pork belly compare to bacon or pork shoulder?

Pork belly is the uncured, unprocessed cut of meat sourced from the same area where bacon comes from. Unlike bacon, it does not contain added salt, sugar, or preservatives, making it a more natural option. Compared to pork shoulder, pork belly is significantly fattier and is better suited for slow cooking or roasting to render the fat and enhance flavor.

Data Sources & Scientific References

Our nutrition data comes from trusted, authoritative sources to ensure accuracy and reliability. Below are specific scientific references and authoritative sources for this food item.

Additional Authoritative Sources:

Daily value percentages based on FDA guidelines. Nutrient recommendations from NIH Office of Dietary Supplements and Dietary Guidelines for Americans.

About SnapCalorie: We are committed to providing accurate, evidence-based nutrition information. Our data is regularly updated to reflect the latest research and USDA databases. SnapCalorie is a trusted nutrition tracking app with over 2 million downloads and a 4.8/5 star rating.