Difference Between Ribs and Spare Ribs

The difference between ribs and spare ribs is a good question. Ribs could be considered the “King of BBQ”, and you are interested in knowing the difference.

In short, ribs or “baby back ribs” are a little leaner, meaty section of the pigs ribs. These ribs are higher up on the rib cage of the pig. Spare ribs are lower on the pig’s rib cage and they have more marbling. Let’s talk about these variations in more detail.

Baby Back Ribs, Loin Back Ribs, Pork Back Ribs

Baby Back Ribs, Loin Back Ribs, Pork Back Ribs all referred to the same rib. Different areas of the country call it different names. I think most of us are familiar with the term baby back ribs.

The baby back ribs are closer to the pig’s loin. This is again the upper part of the rib cage. Baby back ribs also tent to have “bow” or “curve” to the rib ones. This is due to the location of the rib being closer to the spine of the animal.

Baby back ribs are delicious. A lot of people prefer them over spare ribs because they have a more meaty bit with less fat.

When properly cooked baby back ribs are juicy and tender. You can accomplish that perfect “bite” without much pull. These are a favorite among pitmasters and for good reason!

Spare Ribs

Spare ribs are located lower on the rib cage, closer to the belly of the pig. The difference between ribs and spare ribs is that spare ribs have more marbling. Marbling is the white flecks of fat that run through the muscle.

Spare ribs are the preferred cut of ribs for competitions. The difference in pork ribs is that Spare ribs lay more flat in nature. They have a much better presentation vs baby back ribs.

Spare Ribs have a “spare” section of meat. This section of meat is referred to as the “rib tip” section and pitmasters make rib tips from this meat.

The underside of the spare rib also contains a section of the pigs diaphragm. This is referred to as “flap meat” or “skirt meat”. Some pitmasters remove this meat and others leave it in place. If it is removed, it makes a delicious pitmaster snack as your ribs are cooking!

Some people might think spare ribs have some extra or “spare” ribs. This is not true. A rack of spare ribs contains 11 to 13 bones.

When spare ribs are properly cooked they are similar to baby backs. You can accomplish that perfect “bite” and very little pull.

As stated earlier, spare ribs are fattier and this is a good thing. Fat equals flavor! Spare ribs have marbling throughout the meat and this offers a superior flavor!

Spare ribs are delicious and you usually get a little more meat at a cheaper price.

In Conclusion

There you have it, the difference between ribs and spare ribs. Baby back ribs are meatier and reside higher up on the pigs rib cage. Spare ribs have more marbling and are located on lower part of the pig’s rib cage.

Both are delicious cuts of meat in their own respect, especially when you inject them or add a BBQ rub.

Our Injectable Marinade for Pork requires no mixing, just open an inject for additional flavor and juiciness!

Our BBQ Pork Rub Seasoning is the foundation for your rib’s flavor! It pairs perfectly with either pork ribs and the Pork Injection Liquid!

Now it is your turn, experiment with either cuts of ribs and fire up that smoker!  Also, leave us a comment on which is your favorite rib!