Found some fresh belly at the Amish farmers mkt in Delaware yesterday.
Not bad price, $6.50 for just over 2 lbs. Was the last belly so i got it.
(http://i868.photobucket.com/albums/ab242/nepas1/DSC00611.jpg)
All rubbed down and into fridge.
(http://i868.photobucket.com/albums/ab242/nepas1/DSC00612.jpg)
Nice, I have been wanting to try my own bacon but cannot get any bellies.
Bellies are available here in Wisconsin, just a little high in price, but not as bad as what pens spent.
What I have done is contact a wholesale meat company, and they gave me the name of a customer that would sell directly to me without a high up charge.
The last 22 lbs cost me $ 2.39 per lb. which is still high in my estimation, but it was .60 per lb cheaper than anywhere else.
Years ago, I remember seeing bellies for .99 per lb or less, but I wasn't smokin or makin bacon at that time!! dammit I started too late.
My local shop butchers on Wednesday so if i call on Tuesday i can pick up as mean as i want for $2.19 per lbs fresh from the butchering. I might be spoiled but it is some good bacon and also all local raised no mass farm who knows what your getting stuff!! OH and that price includes them taking the skin off, if you leave the skin on its $2.05.
'MMMMM BAAAACON!!!!!