Wood bark

[prudentsmoker]

I have seen conflicting opinions on whether or not to remove the bark. Trying to find a consensus.

 

[jpittssr]

I have seen conflicting opinions on whether or not to remove the bark. Trying to find a consensus.

I think it can at times. But I think the bitterness is caused more by quantity than the bark. We all know that too much of that heavy smoke can ruin the flavor.
It seems to be the opinion of most that the bark must not harbor anything in the way of insects, fungus or dirt.
Most of the wood that we purchase will have some bark.

 

[Pork Belly]

Totaly depends on the tree, chew a small piece, if it tastes like crap don't smoke with it.

 

[DivotMaker]

Brian has a point about the taste of the bark!  Most fruit woods will have some bark.  I'm not afraid to use bark on hickory, mesquite, oak or pecan, if it's CLEAN!  Dirty bark, from wood left outside, is nasty.  Dirt, fungus, insects, mold - you name it!  This WILL effect your flavor.  Store clean wood in a controlled environment, and you won't have a problem.