Nation's bacon reserves hit 50-year low as prices rise

The country's bacon reserves are at the lowest levels in half a century.

In other words, pig farmers can't keep up with the world's sizzling appetite for those fatty, smoky strips of sheer eating pleasure.

The Ohio Pork Council, a Columbus-based non-profit, reported Tuesday that demand for frozen pork belly, frequently made into bacon, is outpacing supply.

“Today’s pig farmers are setting historic records by producing more pigs than ever,” said Rich Deaton, president of the organization. “Yet our reserves are still depleting.”

There are literally not enough little piggies going to market.

In December 2016, frozen pork belly inventory totaled 17.8 million pounds, the lowest level since 1957, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

As a result, prices are on the rise. The council reports pork belly prices have increased 20 percent in January. Officials said increased foreign demand might account for the decline in inventory. Hog farmers export approximately 26 percent of total productions, the council said.

“While bacon may become more expensive for consumers, rest assured pork industry will not run out of supply,” said Deaton.

I knew it was bad news when Hawg started posting again.

I love that there is such a thing as bacon reserves.

I blame microwave bacon.

I blame microwave bacon.

I may be in the minority here, but Turkey bacon isn't a bad substitute.

Terrible opinion

Terrible opinion

It's terrible. My wife bought it once. Once.

Pork bellies, which is used to make bacon, which you might find in a bacon, lettuce, and tomato sandwich...

Probably my favorite scene.

Yeah, there is no substitute for bacon, nothing at all.

Yeah, there is no substitute for bacon, nothing at all.

My wife doesn't eat pork, so I occasionally eat turkey bacon. It's awful. I can't even tell when it's cooked.

I'm cooking a 7 lb pork shoulder for the Super Bowl. Come on over, and dig on some swine.

I'm cooking a 7 lb pork shoulder for the Super Bowl. Come on over, and dig on some swine.

Nice. Injecting?