Zeral logo
Zeral AI

pig cheek

Also listed as: Joue de cochon, Schweinebacke, Carrillada de cerdo, Guanciale di maiale

Mild

Pig cheek (guanciale) is a highly calorie-dense pork cut rich in monounsaturated fats (like oleic acid), saturated fats, and complete proteins.

Recommended safe frequency
dailyModerate daily portions due to the high saturated fat content.
weeklyExcellent for weekly culinary dishes supplying protein and healthy monounsaturated fats.
monthlyCompletely safe.
Brand lens check
  • MicroplasticsNot flagged
  • SugarsNot flagged
  • Seed OilsNot flagged
Body systems impacted
  • Metabolic / Pancreas
  • Heart / Cardiovascular
Regulatory status
  • FDAApproved food product under standard USDA inspection.
  • EFSARegulated and permitted food source for human consumption.

PubMed References

Authoritative Review

Fatty acid composition in muscle and adipose tissue of pigs and relationship to meat quality(2008)

PubMed (PMID 22062452)→

Last reviewed: May 2026

FAQ

Is pig cheek bad for you?

Pig cheek (guanciale) is a highly calorie-dense pork cut rich in monounsaturated fats (like oleic acid), saturated fats, and complete proteins.

What does pig cheek do to your body?

pig cheek primarily affects: Metabolic / Pancreas, Heart / Cardiovascular.

How often is it safe to consume pig cheek?

Daily: Moderate daily portions due to the high saturated fat content.. Weekly: Excellent for weekly culinary dishes supplying protein and healthy monounsaturated fats.. Monthly: Completely safe..

What products contain pig cheek?

pig cheek is commonly found in food products. Use the Zeral app to scan any product and instantly see if it contains pig cheek.

Related Ingredients

Other Food ingredients you should know about

chicken neckMildwater chestnutMildsheep and goat milkMildrhodiola roseaMildrefined palm oilModeratered beetrootMild
Zeral Scanner

Found pig cheek on a label?Scan it in 10 seconds.

Avoid looking up compound chemistry manually. Point your camera at any label — Zeral parses ingredients, matches PubMed studies, and scores them against your specific profile.

Download on theApp StoreDownload forAndroid

iOS & Android · Ad-free · Free to start

Medical Disclaimer: The information on this page is compiled from peer-reviewed scientific studies and regulatory reports. It is intended for general awareness and educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.