Super source
Energy
268 kcal · 13% DV target
An Italian salt-cured pork belly that provides an intense savory depth and silky fat to culinary dishes, serving as a concentrated source of animal-derived lipids and sodium.
Pancetta is a processed pork product that is typically high in sodium and saturated fats, which are consistently linked to an increased risk of cardiovascular disease and colorectal cancer when consumed as part of a regular dietary pattern .2312
Because it is a cured meat, pancetta contains significant levels of sodium, a mineral that the World Health Organization (WHO) and other major health bodies recommend limiting to manage blood pressure and reduce the risk of chronic disease .712
This ingredient contains palmitic acid (a common saturated fatty acid), with levels measured between 5.67% and 5.99%, which is comparable to the concentrations found in cream or certain types of salami .11
Systematic reviews of dietary patterns suggest that minimizing processed meats like pancetta in favor of plant-based foods, such as whole grains and legumes, is associated with improved long-term health outcomes .12
Petal shape shows the nine FoodCompass domains, including nutrient density, processing, satiety, fats, and phytochemicals.
268 kcal · 13% DV target
23.2 g · 46% DV target
19.2 g · 25% DV target
7.05 g · 35% DV target
Not a benefit — best kept low
0.09 g · 9% DV target
Not a benefit — best kept low
0.32 g · Top 10% of meat & poultry
Seasonality has not been estimated for this ingredient yet.
Keep in original packaging or wrap tightly in parchment paper.
As a pork product, it has a lower carbon footprint than beef but higher than poultry or plant proteins.
Unlike American bacon which is smoked, pancetta is cured with salt and spices and then air-dried, a process that allows it to be safely consumed raw in certain traditional Italian preparations.