Bologna vs. Devon: What's the Difference?
Edited by Janet White || By Harlon Moss || Updated on November 7, 2023
Bologna is an American sausage similar to Italian mortadella; Devon is an Australian sausage similar to bologna but with a milder flavor.
Key Differences
Bologna is a type of American deli meat that originated from the Italian sausage mortadella. It is finely ground pork or beef sausage that is typically smoked and sliced for sandwiches. Devon, on the other hand, is a type of sausage popular in Australia and New Zealand. It is similar to bologna but is known for its milder flavor and slightly different spice blend, often including pepper and nutmeg.
In the deli case, bologna appears as a large, smooth, pink sausage and is known for its rich flavor. Devon is often found in Australian supermarkets and is slightly lighter in color with a smoother texture and less pronounced flavor. Both bologna and Devon are used in a similar fashion, commonly served as lunch meats.
The name "bologna" is derived from Bologna, Italy, where mortadella, the precursor to American bologna, is a traditional product. Devon does not have such a geographic tie to its name but is known alternatively as "polony" or "luncheon meat" in different regions. Despite these differences, bologna and Devon are both affordable processed meat options.
While bologna can be found in various forms including ring bologna and the classic American slice, Devon is typically seen in the same circular form. Both can be served cold or fried, popularly in sandwiches or as part of a platter. Bologna has a distinctive garlic flavor profile, whereas Devon's seasoning is usually subtler.
Bologna has become a cultural icon in the United States, often associated with the classic bologna sandwich, whereas Devon is a staple in Australian cuisine, regularly appearing in school lunches and picnics. Both sausages have adapted to the tastes and culinary practices of their respective cultures.
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Comparison Chart
Origin
American, derived from Italian mortadella.
Australian, with no direct Italian link.
Flavor Profile
Rich, with a notable garlic and smoky taste.
Milder flavor with subtle spices.
Common Serving
Sandwiches, often fried or served cold.
Sandwiches, platters, often served cold.
Cultural Significance
Classic American deli meat.
Staple in Australian school lunches.
Alternative Names
Baloney in colloquial speech.
Also known as polony or luncheon meat.
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Bologna and Devon Definitions
Bologna
American deli meat, usually smoked.
Bologna is often added to antipasto platters.
Devon
Australian sausage similar to bologna.
Devon is often seen in Australian kids' lunch boxes.
Bologna
A seasoned sausage of Italian origin.
She packed a bologna sandwich for lunch.
Devon
Also known as luncheon meat in some regions.
Devon is a popular addition to party platters.
Bologna
Fine-ground meat, typically pork or beef.
Fried bologna makes a tasty breakfast side.
Devon
Light in color with a smooth texture.
For the picnic, they brought along some Devon.
Bologna
Encased in a skin, served in slices.
He likes his bologna with mustard on rye.
Devon
A versatile meat used in various dishes.
They served fried Devon with eggs for breakfast.
Bologna
Known colloquially as ‘baloney’.
Mom made a bologna roll-up for a snack.
Devon
Mild-flavored, finely ground meat.
She topped the crackers with a slice of Devon.
Bologna
A large sausage of finely ground pork or other meat, usually served as a cold cut.
Devon
Any of a breed of reddish cattle raised primarily for beef.
Devon
A type of processed meat sausage.
Devon
One of a breed of hardy cattle originating in the country of Devon, England. Those of pure blood have a deep red color. The small, longhorned variety, called North Devons, is distinguished by the superiority of its working oxen.
Devon
A county in southwestern England
Devon
Red dual-purpose cattle of English origin
FAQs
What is bologna?
Bologna is a finely ground, seasoned American sausage, often smoked.
What is Devon?
Devon is a mild-flavored Australian sausage, similar to bologna.
Can bologna be substituted for Devon?
Yes, they can often be used interchangeably in recipes.
Is bologna or Devon healthier?
Both are processed meats; healthiness depends on specific ingredients and personal dietary needs.
What spices are in bologna?
Bologna typically contains garlic, coriander, and other spices.
Is bologna cooked?
Yes, bologna is precooked and can be eaten straight from the package.
Are bologna and Devon the same?
They are similar but differ in taste and cultural significance.
Is Devon cooked?
Devon is also precooked and ready to eat.
What spices are in Devon?
Devon often includes pepper, nutmeg, and is milder than bologna.
How did Devon get its name?
The origin of the name "Devon" for the sausage is unclear.
Can you fry bologna?
Yes, frying bologna is a popular way to serve it.
Can you fry Devon?
Devon can be fried, although it's commonly eaten cold.
What dishes use bologna?
Bologna is used in sandwiches, salads, and as a pizza topping.
Is bologna available worldwide?
Bologna is most popular in the United States but available elsewhere.
What are other names for Devon?
Devon is also known as polony or luncheon meat.
Where did bologna originate?
Bologna originated from the Italian city of Bologna.
What dishes use Devon?
Devon is used in sandwiches, with eggs, and in salads.
Is Devon available worldwide?
Devon is widely available in Australia and New Zealand, less so internationally.
What's another name for bologna?
It is sometimes colloquially referred to as 'baloney'.
How should bologna be stored?
Bologna should be refrigerated and consumed by the use-by date.
How should Devon be stored?
Devon should also be kept refrigerated and used before the expiration date.
About Author
Written by
Harlon MossHarlon is a seasoned quality moderator and accomplished content writer for Difference Wiki. An alumnus of the prestigious University of California, he earned his degree in Computer Science. Leveraging his academic background, Harlon brings a meticulous and informed perspective to his work, ensuring content accuracy and excellence.
Edited by
Janet WhiteJanet White has been an esteemed writer and blogger for Difference Wiki. Holding a Master's degree in Science and Medical Journalism from the prestigious Boston University, she has consistently demonstrated her expertise and passion for her field. When she's not immersed in her work, Janet relishes her time exercising, delving into a good book, and cherishing moments with friends and family.
