What Is in Pork Scratchings

What Is in Pork Scratchings? A Closer Look at the Classic Pub Snack

Crispy, salty and unapologetically indulgent, pork scratchings have long held a firm place in British snacking culture. Whether you find them in a pub alongside a pint or in a foil packet from the corner shop, pork scratchings have a loyal following. But while they’re deliciously moreish, many people wonder what exactly is in pork scratchings?

The answer is simple on the surface but reveals quite a bit about traditional food preparation, flavouring methods and the appeal of old-school snacks.

The Main Ingredient: Pork Skin

At its core, pork scratchings are made from one primary ingredient pig skin. More specifically, it’s the rind and a thin layer of fat taken from cuts such as the shoulder or belly. This skin is then cleaned, salted and cooked to create a crunchy, crackling-like texture. Some varieties leave a little fat on to keep things rich and flavourful, while others are drier and crisper.

The process varies slightly between brands and regions, but the result is always a crunchy snack with a strong porky flavour and satisfying bite.

Salt and Seasonings

Aside from the pork itself, the most common ingredient in pork scratchings is salt. It’s used both as a seasoning and as a preservative. The level of saltiness can vary between brands, but it’s a key part of what gives scratchings their intense flavour.

Some producers add extra seasonings for a unique twist. You might find pork scratchings flavoured with black pepper, paprika, chilli, cider vinegar, or even smoky barbecue. However, traditional versions tend to stick with just pork, salt and a bit of their own rendered fat.

Fat Content and Oil

Pork scratchings are usually cooked in their own rendered fat or sometimes in lard. Unlike crisps, which are fried in vegetable oil, scratchings are more often roasted or twice cooked using the pork's natural fat. This gives them a rich, savoury depth that’s quite different from other snacks.

Some commercial versions might use added oils to control texture or shelf life, but high-quality scratchings often rely on simple, traditional methods.

Do They Contain Additives or Preservatives?

It depends on the brand. Artisan or traditional pork scratchings often contain no additives, relying solely on salt to preserve the product. However, supermarket versions or mass-produced scratchings may include preservatives, stabilisers, or flavour enhancers to extend shelf life or enhance taste.

Common additives might include citric acid (for tanginess or to prevent spoilage), monosodium glutamate (MSG), or sodium nitrite. If you’re concerned about additives, check the packaging many brands now label their products as “100% natural” or “no added nasties.”

Are Pork Scratchings Healthy?

Pork scratchings are high in protein and fat, with almost no carbohydrates. This has made them popular with people following low-carb or keto diets. However, they’re also high in saturated fat and salt, so they’re definitely more of an occasional treat than an everyday snack.

Because they're made from real pork skin, they offer more substance than crisps but they’re still considered a processed food, and portion control is key. Some brands now offer baked or lighter versions with reduced fat and salt for those who want a guilt-reduced option.

Are They the Same as Crackling or Pork Rinds?

Not exactly. While all three are made from pork skin, scratchings are cooked until hard and crunchy, and usually eaten cold. Crackling is typically made fresh, as part of a roast, and served hot with a layer of bubbling fat. Pork rinds, popular in the US, are puffier and lighter because they’re cooked at a higher temperature, often in oil, to make them expand.

So, while they all come from the same source, the cooking method makes a big difference in texture and flavour.

Final Thoughts: What You’re Really Eating

Pork scratchings are a simple snack with a bold flavour made from pork skin, fat, salt, and sometimes a few seasonings or additives. They're a product of nose-to-tail eating, using parts of the pig that might otherwise go to waste, and turning them into a crunchy, protein-rich treat.

Whether you love them as a pub staple or prefer to keep them as a nostalgic guilty pleasure, pork scratchings are a true reflection of traditional British snacking: simple ingredients, big flavour and no fuss.