As long as their have been pigs, their have been cured pork skins. Deep-fried and puffed into light, irregular curls, they often seasoned with chili pepper or barbecue flavoring.

There are also microwavable pork rinds that are sold which pop like popcorn and can be eaten still warm. Pickled pork rinds, on the other hand, are often enjoyed refrigerated and cold. Unlike the crisp and fluffy texture of fried pork rinds, pickled pork rinds are very rich and buttery, much like foie gras. Unfried pork rind are favorit with fish (they are processed into fish bait).

In the south, pork rinds are very popular. Elsewhere they are often poorly regarded due to their origins, high fat content and red-neckedness.

The former U.S. President George Bush senior said that pork rinds were his favorite snack.