Life without bacon: what does this world taste like? As Southerners, we shudder to imagine that reality.

But it could happen, with news today that the U.K. is already facing a bacon shortage. (The culprits? Drought and high feed costs.) Now it looks like the U.S. could be next in what some are calling “porkocalypse.”

We’re not the only ones in a tizzy: the Twitterverse is blowing up with discussions of stockpiling the cripsy stuff and alternatives for this potential (gasp) World Without Bacon.

Though the impact on U.S. bacon could be far less, prices may go up in 2013. So, in the meantime, get yourself to the grocery store and celebrate some of our favorite ways to enjoy the good stuff. Stay strong, friends across the pond, stay strong.

Springtime Pasta with Bacon
You can enjoy this colorful dish warm or chilled–it’s perfect either way.

Springtime Pasta with Bacon Recipe; Photo by Jennifer Davick

Pimiento Cheese-Bacon Burger
Upgrade a beef burger with fresh herbs, a hearty scoop of pimiento cheese, and bacon.

Pimiento Cheese-Bacon Burger Recipe; Photo by Jennifer Davick

Bacon-and-Leek Tart
So easy to make, but gorgeous presentation that’s great for company.

Bacon-and-Leek Tart Recipe; Photo by Beth Dreiling-Hontzas

Southern Mac and Cheese
Comfort food that’s classically Southern with hearty leeks and bacon.

Southern Mac and Cheese Recipe; Photo by Iain Bagwell

Bacon-Peanut Truffles
Think chocolate and peanut butter is a great combination? Try adding bacon to the mix.

Bacon Peanut Truffles Recipe; Photo by Jennifer Davick

Bacon-Infused Bourbon
Say hello to the Southerner’s perfect cocktail. All you need is a bottle of your favorite bourbon and some warm bacon grease.

Bacon-Infused Bourbon Recipe; Photo by Jennifer Davick