Best Vegan Bacon Alternatives
That smoky aroma, the satisfying crunch, the salty-sweet magic of bacon - it's the one thing people say they'd miss most. But here's the thing: it's the smoke, salt, and crunch you crave, and plants can deliver all three.
1 products tested & reviewedThat smoky aroma, the satisfying crunch, the salty-sweet magic of bacon - it's the one thing people say they'd miss most. But here's the thing: it's the smoke, salt, and crunch you crave, and plants can deliver all three. Whether you're going fully vegan or just cutting back on pork bacon, finding a bacon that delivers on taste and texture can feel overwhelming. From seitan strips to coconut bacon to mushroom bacon, plant-based bacon captures the smoky, crispy, salty experience in multiple delicious ways. Commercial options have gotten remarkably close to the real thing. With brands like Sweet Earth leading the charge, plant-based bacon has come a long way. Our team rated these products an average of 3.9 out of 5 stars across 1,876 total reviews.
As an Amazon Associate, Komo Comfort Foods earns from qualifying purchases. Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change.
Vegan vs Pork Bacon — At a Glance
| Aspect | Pork Bacon | Vegan Bacon |
|---|---|---|
| Taste & Texture | Traditional pork bacon flavor and mouthfeel | Modern plant-based versions closely replicate the experience with products rated 3.9 / 5 |
| Health Impact | Contains animal-derived ingredients with higher saturated fat and cholesterol | No nitrates or nitrites |
| Environmental Footprint | Higher water usage, land use, and greenhouse gas emissions | Pig farming has enormous environmental costs including water pollution, antibiotic resistance, and greenhouse gas emissions. Plant-based bacon eliminates all of these concerns. |
| Price Range | Generally less expensive per unit at most grocery stores | Ranges from $4-6 depending on brand |
| Dietary Flexibility | Limited to non-vegan diets; may contain common allergens like lactose | Options available: soy-free, nut-free |
| Availability | Widely available at all grocery stores | Carried by major retailers; top brands include Sweet Earth |
Health Benefits of Switching
No nitrates or nitrites
Lower in saturated fat
No cholesterol
Less sodium than many pork bacons
Tips for Making the Switch
Start With What You Know
Cook it slightly longer than you think - crispiness is key
Give Your Palate Time
Rice paper bacon is a fun DIY project
Mix and Match
Coconut bacon is amazing on salads and baked potatoes
Read the Labels
Liquid smoke is the secret weapon for homemade versions
Get the Top 5 Swaps Guide (Free)
Weekly plant-based recipes, new product alerts, and swap tips. No spam, ever.
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Sweet Earth Benevolent Bacon and Lightlife Smart Bacon are the most realistic commercial options. For a whole-food approach, marinated and smoked rice paper bacon or thinly sliced and baked shiitake mushroom bacon can be phenomenal.
Making the switch from pork bacon to plant-based bacon doesn't have to mean sacrificing flavor. Our top recommendation, Sweet Earth Benevolent Bacon by Sweet Earth, proves that vegan comfort food can be just as satisfying. Pig farming has enormous environmental costs including water pollution, antibiotic resistance, and greenhouse gas emissions. Plant-based bacon eliminates all of these concerns. Every swap counts, and with 1 great options to choose from, there's never been a better time to explore what plant-based bacon has to offer.