If you're looking for a flavorful addition to your salads, baked potatoes, or any other dish, 1 1/2 tbsp (7 g) of Bac-Os Bits might be just what you need. These little bacon-flavored bits can add a savory crunch to your meals, but how nutritious are they? According to the label, 1 1/2 tbsp of Bac-Os Bits only contain 30 calories.

While Bac-Os Bits may provide a smoky and savory flavor to your dishes, they do not offer significant nutritional value. In terms of macronutrients, Bac-Os Bits are low in protein and fiber and high in sodium. One serving of 1.5 tablespoons contains 270 mg of sodium, which is about 12% of the daily recommended limit for American adults.

Despite their lack of nutrients, Bac-Os Bits can still be enjoyed in moderation as a topping for salads, baked potatoes, or even as a garnish for cocktails. In this article, we'll explore some common questions about Bac-Os Bits and provide some suggestions for how you can use them in your cooking.

What are Bac-Os Bits?

Bac-Os Bits are a vegetarian bacon-flavored topping made by the company McCormick. They are designed to taste like bacon and provide a crunchy texture to dishes. Despite their name, Bac-Os Bits do not actually contain bacon. Instead, they are made from soy flour, caramel color, and natural and artificial flavors.

How many calories do Bac-Os Bits contain?

As mentioned earlier, 1 1/2 tbsp (7 g) of Bac-Os Bits contains only 30 calories. This makes them a low-calorie ingredient that can be used to add flavor to your meals without significantly increasing the calorie count.

Are Bac-Os Bits a healthy snack?

While Bac-Os Bits are low in calories, they are not considered a healthy snack. One serving of Bac-Os Bits contains 270 mg of sodium, which is about 12% of the daily recommended limit for American adults. They also do not provide significant amounts of vitamins or minerals.

What are the ingredients in Bac-Os Bits?

The ingredients in Bac-Os Bits include soy flour, soybean oil, water, salt, caramel color, and natural and artificial flavors. They also contain preservatives such as sodium benzoate, BHA, and BHT to maintain freshness.

How are Bac-Os Bits made?

Bac-Os Bits are made by mixing soy flour, soybean oil, water, salt, caramel color, and flavorings together into a dough-like consistency. The mixture is then shaped into small pellets and cooked in an oven until they are crispy.

How can you use Bac-Os Bits in cooking?

Bac-Os Bits can be used as a topping for salads, baked potatoes, macaroni and cheese, or any other dish that could use a smoky and savory flavor. They can also be added to cocktails as a garnish. One idea is to make a vegetarian BLT sandwich using Bac-Os Bits as a bacon substitute. Simply toast some bread, add lettuce, tomato, and mayonnaise, and sprinkle Bac-Os Bits on top for a crunchy and flavorful twist on a classic sandwich.

Are Bac-Os Bits vegan-friendly?

Yes, Bac-Os Bits are vegan-friendly as they do not contain any animal products.

Can Bac-Os Bits be used as a salad topper?

Yes, Bac-Os Bits can be used as a salad topper to add some smoky and savory flavor to your greens. Try sprinkling them over a Caesar salad or a spinach salad with strawberries and feta cheese for a delicious and crunchy combination.

Where can you buy Bac-Os Bits?

Bac-Os Bits can be found in most grocery stores in the same aisle as salad dressings and croutons. They can also be purchased online through retailers such as Amazon.

What are some alternative products to Bac-Os Bits?

If you're looking for a plant-based bacon substitute, there are several options available. Some popular options include tempeh bacon, coconut bacon, and eggplant bacon. These alternatives can provide a similar smoky and savory flavor as Bac-Os Bits but might offer more nutritional benefits.