Smithfield Brings the Sweet Heat with Mike’s Hot Honey Collaboration

Smithfield® is turning up the flavor with a sizzlin’ new collab – Smithfield Mike’s Hot Honey Bacon. Bringing together two icons – bacon and honey – in one craveworthy bite, this first-of-its-kind innovation infuses Smithfield’s hickory smoked bacon cured to perfection, with the signature sweet heat of Mike’s Hot Honey, the original and leading hot honey brand. The result? An irresistible balance of smoky and sweet, with a kick of heat that transforms everyday moments into flavor-packed occasions. 

This exciting new launch is the spotlight of Smithfield's We Speak Pork campaign, underscoring the brand’s commitment to deliver new flavors and offerings that connect with consumers and drive growth in the bacon category. Because when it comes to pork and flavor, no one speaks it better. 

To build momentum, Smithfield is executing a 360-degree campaign, spanning across media, influencer engagement and a Times Square takeover. It will also feature two new product-specific creative spots voiced by Emmy Award-winning comedian Ben Schwartz. The ads, which will run across streaming platforms, digital, social and in-store media, are complemented by impactful out-of-home placements that reinforce Smithfield’s purpose of bringing pork’s flavor and versatility to life in fresh, unexpected ways. 

Today, Smithfield is bringing the new We Speak Pork platform and collab to life by surprising New Yorkers with an immersive and delicious experience in Times Square featuring scroll-stopping visuals, mouthwatering samples, exclusive merch drops and more. 

High above the crowds on oversized screens, thousands of bees will swarm the skyline before scattering into a golden rush of honey that ignites into sparks of spice, culminating in a fiery declaration: I’m Coming in Hot. Down at street level, consumers can enjoy sizzling samples of Smithfield Mike’s Hot Honey Bacon from unexpected guests and a Smithfield Food Truck will also serve bacon bliss and merch. 

“Smithfield has always stood for quality, and the collaboration with Mike’s Hot Honey reflects our commitment to innovating in ways that resonate with today’s consumer,” said Marianne Radley, Managing Director of Marketing for Smithfield Foods. “The partnership brings a bold new flavor experience that feels both authentic and distinctive. It’s the best of tradition and trend on one plate.” 

“At Mike’s Hot Honey, we’re all about giving the classics a twist, and bacon is one of my personal favorites,” said Mike Kurtz, founder of Mike’s Hot Honey. “Partnering with Smithfield has been an incredible way to share that sweet heat and smoky flavor in a combination that’s simple, fun and really tasty.” 

Smithfield Mike’s Hot Honey Bacon is hitting shelves nationwide this month at Kroger, Publix, Meijer, Shop Rite and more.