As far as breakfast foods go, bacon is undoubtedly one of the most popular items to order. But what makes bacon great goes far beyond its flavor. Bacon has an interesting background, from its history to modern uses. Here are five fascinating facts that every bacon lover should know.

What You Might Not Know About Bacon

1. Eating Bacon Is an Ancient Tradition

Bacon is possibly the world’s oldest processed meat. As far back as 1500 BCE, the Chinese were cooking salted pork belly. This is the earliest form of bacon that still persists today, especially in Chinese, Filipino, and Korean cuisine. Enjoying bacon is an age-old pastime.

2. The Word “Bacon” Has German Roots

The word “bacon” itself derives from the Germanic root “-bah,” or back. “Bahho,” the Old High German term for bacon, means “side of bacon.” This became “bacco” in Old French, which was picked up in Middle English as “baccoun.” The term referred to any pork product at the time, but eventually, the English dedicated the term bacon exclusively to cured pork.

3. Bacon Might Be Good for Babies

With pregnancy comes a long list of foods and beverages to avoid. While many might assume bacon is on the avoid list, eating it with your breakfast might actually be good for the coming baby. Bacon is rich in choline, a nutrient that research suggests is essential for brain development. Choline is depleted during pregnancy, so increasing your intake could benefit fetal development.

4. Bacon Looks Different Around the World

In the US, bacon generally comes from the sides of the pig’s belly. Other countries around the world make their bacon differently. Known as “back bacon” in its homeland, Canadian bacon comes from the loins of a pig. Australia and New Zealand commonly sell “middle bacon,” which takes from both the side and loin sections.

5. Bacon Was the First Meal Eaten on the Moon

Bacon’s greatest claim to fame didn’t even take place on Earth. Once the fanfare of the moon landing began to settle for Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin, they sat down to their first meal—bacon, peaches, sugar cookies, a pineapple grapefruit drink, and coffee. Next time you order bacon with breakfast, remember that you’re eating a meal fit for the moon.

Hungry for crispy, savory bacon with your next meal? Dine in at King Street Kitchen for a tantalizing selection of breakfast options featuring your favorite meat. Located in La Crosse, WI, this family-friendly restaurant offers an unbeatable dining experience. Whether you want a Meat Lover’s Skillet for dinner or a mouthwatering bacon cheeseburger for lunch, their staff is dedicated to bringing you delicious meals all day. Check out their full menu online. To ask about a particular dish, call (608) 784-9660.