Bacon is a beloved breakfast staple for many, but with concerns about the health effects of nitrates and nitrites, more and more people are seeking out nitrate-free options.
However, with so many brands and labels claiming to be “uncured” or “nitrate-free,” it can be difficult to know which ones are truly free of these potentially harmful additives.
In this article, we’ll explore the world of nitrate-free bacon and help you find the best brands to add to your breakfast plate.
So sit back, relax, and get ready to learn all about the bacon that’s better for you.
What Brand Of Bacon Is Nitrate Free?
When it comes to finding nitrate-free bacon, it’s important to understand the labeling and production process. While some brands may claim to be “uncured” or “nitrate-free,” the truth is that all bacon contains some level of nitrates and nitrites.
However, some brands use natural sources of nitrates, such as celery powder or sea salt, instead of synthetic additives. These natural sources still convert to nitrites during the curing process, but at a lower level than synthetic nitrates.
One brand that uses natural sources of nitrates is Niman Ranch. Their bacon is made with sea salt and celery powder, and is free from antibiotics and hormones. It’s also minimally processed and made from high-quality pork.
Another option is Applegate Farms, which uses celery powder as a natural source of nitrates in their bacon. They also offer a variety of flavors, including uncured turkey bacon for those looking for a leaner option.
For those who prefer to avoid any sources of nitrates, there are brands like Pederson’s Farms that use a unique curing process without any added nitrates or nitrites. Their bacon is made from pasture-raised pork and is free from antibiotics and hormones.
It’s important to note that while nitrate-free bacon may be a better option for some, it’s still a processed meat and should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
Understanding Nitrates And Nitrites In Bacon
Nitrates and nitrites are commonly used in the production of bacon as preservatives and to enhance the flavor and color. Nitrites have been a controversial food additive due to studies showing that they can form carcinogenic compounds called nitrosamines when heated in the presence of proteins, like those in bacon.
Regular bacon is cured with either nitrate or nitrite, with nitrite having the potential to form harmful nitrosamines. Bacon labeled as “nitrate- or nitrite-free” is brined with salt, a bacterial lactic acid starter culture, and celery juice, which naturally contains organic nitrates that are converted to nitrites during processing.
It’s important to note that all bacon, including “uncured” or “nitrate-free” options, still contain some level of nitrates and nitrites. However, some brands use natural sources of nitrates, such as celery powder or sea salt, instead of synthetic additives. These natural sources still convert to nitrites during the curing process, but at a lower level than synthetic nitrates.
While some consumers may be concerned about the purported health effects of sodium nitrite in bacon and look for alternatives, it’s important to understand that neither nitrate nor nitrite accumulates in the body. Ingested nitrate from food is converted into nitrite when it contacts our saliva, and any absorbed nitrate has a short half-life, disappearing from our blood in under five minutes.
In general, the bulk of the science suggests that nitrates and nitrites are not problematic and may even be beneficial to health. Critical reviews of the original evidence suggesting that nitrates/nitrites are carcinogenic reveal that in the absence of co-administration of a carcinogenic nitrosamine precursor, there is no evidence for carcinogenesis.
Ultimately, while there are brands that use natural sources of nitrates and offer “uncured” or “nitrate-free” options, it’s important to consume bacon in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
What Does Uncured Bacon Really Mean?
The term “uncured” bacon can be misleading, as all bacon must undergo a curing process before consumption. However, the difference between cured and uncured bacon lies in the type of curing agents used. Cured bacon typically contains synthetic nitrates and nitrites, which have been linked to health concerns such as cancer and reproductive issues.
On the other hand, uncured bacon is cured with natural sources of nitrates, such as celery powder or sea salt. While these natural sources still convert to nitrites during the curing process, they are generally considered to be a healthier option than synthetic nitrates.
It’s important to look for labels that indicate “no sodium nitrate” or “no sodium nitrite” when searching for uncured bacon. Brands like Niman Ranch and Applegate Farms use natural sources of nitrates in their bacon, while Pederson’s Farms offers a unique curing process without any added nitrates or nitrites.
It’s worth noting that while uncured bacon may be a better option for some, it’s still a processed meat and should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
Top Brands Of Nitrate-Free Bacon
If you’re looking for nitrate-free bacon, here are some top brands to consider:
1. Niman Ranch: This brand uses natural sources of nitrates, such as sea salt and celery powder, in their bacon. Their pork is also free from antibiotics and hormones.
2. Applegate Farms: Applegate Farms offers a variety of flavors of nitrate-free bacon, all made with celery powder as a natural source of nitrates. They also have an uncured turkey bacon option for those looking for a leaner alternative.
3. Pederson’s Farms: This brand uses a unique curing process without any added nitrates or nitrites in their bacon. Their pork is pasture-raised and free from antibiotics and hormones.
How To Cook Nitrate-Free Bacon For Optimal Flavor And Texture
Cooking nitrate-free bacon requires a slightly different approach than regular bacon. Since it doesn’t contain synthetic nitrates, it may not have the same pink color as traditional bacon. However, with the right cooking technique, you can still achieve optimal flavor and texture.
First, preheat your oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil to prevent sticking. Arrange the bacon slices on the sheet, making sure they don’t overlap.
Bake the bacon for 12-15 minutes, or until it reaches your desired level of crispiness. Keep an eye on it towards the end of the cooking time to prevent burning.
Alternatively, you can cook nitrate-free bacon on the stovetop. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Place the bacon slices in the pan, making sure they don’t overlap. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until crispy.
When cooking nitrate-free bacon, it’s important to remember that it may cook faster than regular bacon due to its lower nitrite content. Keep an eye on it and adjust your cooking time accordingly.
Other Tips For Choosing Healthier Bacon Options
In addition to looking for nitrate-free options, there are other factors to consider when choosing a healthier bacon option. One important factor is the cut of the bacon. Center cut bacon is a leaner option, as it contains less fat and more meat. This can help reduce the overall calorie and fat content of your bacon.
Another important consideration is the sodium content. Bacon is naturally high in sodium, but some brands offer lower sodium options. Look for bacon labeled as “reduced sodium” or “low sodium” to help limit your sodium intake.
It’s also a good idea to choose bacon made from high-quality pork. Look for brands that use pasture-raised or organic pork, as these options are typically free from antibiotics and hormones.
Finally, it’s important to enjoy bacon in moderation. Even the healthiest bacon options should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. Pair your bacon with nutrient-rich foods like whole grains, fruits, and vegetables to help balance out your meal. And don’t forget to stay hydrated and consume potassium-rich foods to help manage the effects of sodium on your body.