Is obtained from the belly of the pig and its shape changes according to the variety. For example, it is squared in the case of flat pancetta, which can be with or without rind, classic or smoked. On the other hand, the rolled pancetta, the magretta and the coppata are round, so called because it is obtained by rolling together the part of the bacon together with coppa. Pancetta Piacentina and Pancetta di Calabria have received the Community PDO mark.
The colour of this cured meat is pinkish white, tending to red in the leaner pancetta. The scent is delicate and can vary according to the spices used, such as pepper and carnation flowers, while the pancetta from Central Italy is often flavoured with garlic and fennel seeds.