Costco is a haven for shoppers who love quality and savings. From seasonal treats to household staples, there’s always something exciting on the shelves. One product that stands out as a must-buy is Kirkland Signature Bacon.
Beloved for its flavor, affordability, and versatility, this bacon has earned a spot on countless shopping lists.
But have you ever wondered who makes Kirkland Signature Bacon? Let’s dive into the secret behind its quality and why it deserves a place in your cart.
Why Is Kirkland Signature Bacon So Popular?
Costco’s Kirkland Signature Hickory-Smoked Bacon is a customer favorite for good reason. It offers the perfect smoky, sweet flavor balance with a tremendous fat-to-meat ratio. This isn’t just any bacon—it has outshined major brands like Oscar Mayer and Trader Joe’s in taste tests.
Consumer Reports even named it the best bacon brand, praising its exceptional quality compared to the competition. Ryan Stegall, a meat industry expert, attributes this to the quality of the hogs used.
“Costco ensures their hogs are raised to higher standards than many competitors,” he said. This commitment to quality shines through in every slice.
The Secret to Kirkland Bacon’s Great Taste
While the bacon bears Costco’s famous Kirkland Signature label, many shoppers don’t realize that Costco often outsources its products to leading industry suppliers. These third-party vendors manufacture the goods to Costco’s specifications, ensuring premium quality at unbeatable prices.
Costco’s bacon tastes familiar because its suppliers are big names in the meat industry. These companies use their expertise to create delicious products while keeping costs low for Costco members.
Who Makes Kirkland Signature Bacon?
For years, rumors swirled about who supplies Kirkland Signature Bacon. Many speculated that Hormel, a well-known pork producer, was the source since Costco and Hormel partnered on a co-branded bacon line in 2005. However, Hormel has officially denied any involvement with Kirkland bacon today.
So, who’s responsible for this beloved product? According to industry insiders, Smithfield Foods is one of Costco’s largest suppliers, contributing an estimated 75-80% of the bacon sold under the Kirkland label.
Smithfield is a trusted name in pork production, providing high-quality bacon to major grocery chains like Target and Kroger. It’s no wonder Costco relies on them as a critical supplier.
While Smithfield plays a significant role, Costco may also work with other regional suppliers due to the challenges of sourcing meat consistently across the country. This ensures that Kirkland bacon meets its high-quality standards no matter where you shop.
Why Does Costco Outsource Kirkland Bacon?
Costco’s approach to outsourcing allows it to offer premium products at lower prices. By partnering with trusted suppliers like Smithfield, Costco avoids the costs of owning and operating its own production facilities.
Instead, it works with established brands that already have the expertise and infrastructure to deliver top-tier bacon.
This strategy benefits Costco members by offering high-quality bacon at a fraction of the price you’d pay for the same brand at other stores.
The Value of Kirkland Bacon
One reason shoppers keep returning to Kirkland Signature Bacon is the unbeatable value. At Costco, you get premium-quality bacon for less. Knowing that Smithfield likely supplies most of it, you enjoy Smithfield bacon without the higher price tag.
Plus, Costco’s bacon comes in bulk packaging, which is perfect for families or anyone who loves to meal prep. Whether making bacon-wrapped jalapeño poppers in summer or a cozy bacon breakfast casserole in winter, Kirkland bacon has you covered year-round.
Conclusion
The next time you’re browsing Costco’s aisles, don’t forget to grab a pack (or two) of Kirkland Signature Bacon. With its unbeatable taste, quality, and value, it’s no surprise that it’s a staple for many households. Now that you know the likely supplier behind this fan-favorite product, you can enjoy it more confidently.
Whether it’s breakfast, lunch, or dinner, Kirkland bacon is a delicious addition to any meal—proving that Costco truly knows how to “bring home the bacon.”
FAQs
Is Kirkland Signature Bacon hickory-smoked?
Kirkland Signature Bacon is hickory-smoked, giving it a rich, smoky-sweet flavor that stands out.
Does Smithfield Foods make all of Costco’s bacon?
While Smithfield supplies a significant portion (75-80%) of Kirkland Signature Bacon, Costco may also work with other regional suppliers, depending on availability.
How does Kirkland bacon compare to other brands?
Kirkland bacon has consistently outperformed major brands like Oscar Mayer and Trader Joe’s in taste tests. Its flavor, fat-to-meat ratio, and overall quality make it a top pick.
Why is Kirkland bacon so affordable?
Costco’s outsourcing model allows them to partner with top suppliers like Smithfield. These partnerships help keep production costs low, passing the savings to customers.
Can I freeze Kirkland Signature Bacon?
Yes, you can freeze Kirkland bacon to extend its shelf life. It’s ideal for stocking up during your Costco trips.
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