New figures from NPD Group/Crest show that pig meat, including pork, bacon, sausages and ham, the most consumed red meat in the out-of-home market with 68.7 per cent of all red meat servings.

It also experienced the greatest increase in servings in 2011 compared with a year ago. The figures show total pig meat servings increased by 8.1.

In the main this growth was driven by bacon, which saw servings grow by 29.5 per cent and sausages, which grew by 21.3 per cent. Ham has also moved up the charts, by 11.7 per cent and pork saw an increase of 4.6 per cent.

BPEX foodservice trade manager, Tony Goodger, said: “Quality assured bacon is a fantastic ingredient for all types of menus. It’s hugely versatile and delivers a punch of flavour to dishes.

“Sausages made from quality assured pork also continue to be one of the most popular foods eaten out of home, appealing to both adults and children alike.

“Both are relatively low-cost proteins and, in the current climate when every penny counts, chefs are clearly recognising their profit potential.

“Pork has always represented good value for money in comparison with other meats, but now we’re starting to see more chefs buying whole pig carcases and experimenting with a wider range of cuts.”