Unveiling New Jersey’s Breakfast Battle – Pork Roll vs. Taylor Ham

Fair Rate Funding is a New Jersey lawsuit loan company located in Manasquan, NJ. Because of this, we sometimes write about light hearted topics as they pertain to New Jersey life. One of the most entertaining of these topics is the battle between Pork Roll and Taylor Ham.

Pork roll, a processed pork product and New Jersey breakfast staple, was first introduced by John Taylor in Trenton, Mercer County, New Jersey, in the mid-1800s. Taylor initially labeled it as Taylor’s Prepared Ham, but due to concerns regarding the misleading use of the term “ham,” the name eventually evolved into “Pork Roll.”

In this post, we delve into the origins of these popular breakfast meats and examine the debate over what is the proper name for this particular food item.

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Pork Roll vs. Taylor Ham

Pork roll, also known as Taylor Pork Roll, is a processed meat product made from ground pork, blended spices, and curing salts. It’s typically encased in a distinctive cylindrical shape and sliced into thin rounds before cooking. Pork roll has a unique, slightly salty, smoky flavor and a versatile texture, making it suitable for various culinary applications.

Taylor Ham

Taylor Ham is the original name for this breakfast delight and coined by its creator, John Taylor. The recipe for Taylor Ham is nearly identical to pork roll, but the name has become synonymous with the product itself. Just like pork roll, it’s a breakfast staple often enjoyed in sandwiches, paired with eggs and cheese.

Pork Roll

The Pure Food and Drug Act of 1906, prohibited the sale of mis-branded or adulterated food and drugs in interstate commerce. Since ham is a specific cut of meat (buttock and thigh), Taylor Provisions couldn’t properly refer to their product as “ham” under the Act. Taylor was thus forced to rebrand their product to be in compliance with the law.

Taylor’s company unsuccessfully attempted to trademark the new name “pork roll”. Meanwhile, other versions appeared throughout New Jersey using the name. Now, multiple companies produce pork roll products similar to the one old John Taylor created long ago.

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The Debate

The heart of the debate lies in nomenclature. The central question is whether the product should be referred to as pork roll or Taylor Ham. The debate has become a symbol of New Jersey identity, sparking friendly rivalries and animated discussions. Regional differences, family traditions, and personal preferences fuel the debate.

Regional Preferences

In general, northern parts of New Jersey, including areas like Bergen County, tend to use the term “Taylor Ham,” while southern regions, such as Monmouth and Ocean counties, predominantly use the term “pork roll.” The divide isn’t just linguistic; it’s a cultural preference ingrained in the local fabric. Jersey Shore summer breakfast spots are often the battleground as locals lambaste Bennies for bringing their opinions south of the Raritan River.

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Pork Roll – Taylor Ham – What it Means

The pork roll vs. Taylor Ham debate has gone beyond breakfast menus. It’s a cultural phenomenon, woven into the fabric of New Jersey’s identity. This debate is not only about taste but also about tradition, nostalgia, and regional pride, making it a unique and endearing aspect of New Jersey’s culinary landscape.

Whether you’re Team Pork Roll or Team Taylor Ham, there’s no denying the deliciousness of this iconic breakfast meat. The debate will likely continue to sizzle, adding flavor to morning meals and uniting residents in their love for this cherished New Jersey classic. In the end, regardless of what you call it, it’s the shared enjoyment of this tasty treat that truly matters.

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