Monday, April 6, 2009

Chemical reaction that explains the appeal of the bacon sandwich

It is a simple pleasure for millions of hungry Britons but researchers have uncovered the science behind the enduring appeal of the bacon sandwich.

Bacon sandwich: Chemical reaction that explains the appeal of the bacon sandwich
A complex chemical interaction in the meat is what produces the winning combination of taste and smell in a bacon sandwich Photo: GETTY

A complex chemical interaction in the meat is what produces the winning combination of taste and smell in a bacon buttie, according to an expert.

The reaction between amino acids in the bacon and reducing sugars in the fat is what provides the simple snack with its appeal, according to Elin Roberts, science communications manager at the Centre for Life education centre in Newcastle.

She explained that the chemical changes that take place when the bacon is heated are more important than other variables such as brown sauce distribution or toaster settings.

At the centre of it all is the Maillard reaction, a chemical reaction between an amino acid and a reducing sugar which often requires heat. The acid and sugar react to release a huge amount of smells and flavours.

Ms Roberts said:: "The smell of sizzling bacon in a pan is enough to tempt even the staunchest of vegetarians. There's something deeper going on inside. It's not just the idea of a tasty snack. There is some complex chemistry going on.

"Meat is made of mostly protein and water. Inside the protein, it's made up of building blocks we call amino acids. But also, you need some fat. Anyone who's been on a diet knows if you take all the fat from the meat, it just doesn't taste the same. We need some of the fat to give it the flavour."

She added: "Fats mean that there are some reducing sugars in there as well. When it's really hot – that's when the Maillard reaction starts."

She explained that the reaction released hundreds of smells and flavours but it is the smell which reels in the eater. "Smell and taste are really closely linked," she said. "If we couldn't smell then taste wouldn't be the same."