Bacon is a beloved breakfast staple, but with concerns about the potential health risks of nitrates and nitrites, many consumers are seeking out nitrate-free options.
However, navigating the world of bacon labeling can be confusing. Is “uncured” bacon really nitrate-free? And what about bacon that’s cured with celery powder instead of nitrates?
In this article, we’ll explore the world of nitrate-free bacon and highlight some brands that offer this option. Whether you’re a health-conscious consumer or just looking to switch up your breakfast routine, read on to learn more about nitrate-free bacon.
What Brands Of Bacon Are Nitrate Free?
When it comes to finding nitrate-free bacon, there are a few brands that stand out. One popular option is Applegate Farms, which offers a range of nitrate-free bacon products. Their bacon is cured with celery powder and sea salt, and is free of antibiotics and hormones.
Another brand to consider is Niman Ranch, which offers a variety of nitrate-free bacon options. Their bacon is made from humanely-raised pork and is free of artificial ingredients.
If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option, Trader Joe’s also offers nitrate-free bacon. Their bacon is cured with celery powder and sea salt, and is free of preservatives and artificial flavors.
Other brands that offer nitrate-free bacon include Wellshire Farms, Pederson’s Farms, and Nature’s Rancher.
It’s important to note that while these brands may be labeled as “nitrate-free,” they still contain naturally occurring nitrates from ingredients like celery powder. However, many consumers feel more comfortable choosing these options over traditional bacon that’s cured with synthetic nitrates.
Understanding Nitrates And Nitrites In Bacon
Nitrates and nitrites are commonly used in the curing process of bacon to preserve the meat and give it that familiar pink color. However, there has been controversy over the potential health risks associated with consuming these additives. Studies have shown that when nitrites are heated in the presence of proteins, such as those found in bacon, they can form carcinogenic compounds called nitrosamines.
While some brands of bacon are labeled as “nitrate-free” or “nitrite-free,” it’s important to understand that these terms can be misleading. Nitrate-free bacon typically means that the bacon is free from sodium nitrate, but may still contain naturally occurring nitrates from ingredients like celery powder. Likewise, nitrite-free bacon means that it’s free from sodium nitrite, but may still contain naturally occurring nitrites.
It’s also worth noting that even if a brand of bacon is labeled as “uncured,” it may still contain nitrates and nitrites. This is because some companies use natural sources of nitrates, such as celery juice, to cure their bacon.
If you’re concerned about the potential health risks associated with nitrates and nitrites, it’s important to read the labels carefully and do your research before purchasing any type of bacon. Look for brands that use natural sources of nitrates and nitrites, or consider opting for nitrate-free options altogether.
The Risks Of Consuming Nitrates And Nitrites
Consuming nitrates and nitrites can pose potential health risks. These compounds are often added to processed meats like bacon as preservatives and to enhance flavor and color. However, when cooked at high temperatures, nitrates and nitrites can form nitrosamines, which are known carcinogens.
Studies have linked the consumption of processed meats like bacon to an increased risk of cancer, particularly colorectal cancer. The World Health Organization has classified processed meats as a Group 1 carcinogen, meaning that there is strong evidence linking them to cancer.
In addition to their potential carcinogenic effects, nitrates and nitrites can also cause other health issues. High levels of nitrates in drinking water have been linked to a condition called methemoglobinemia, which affects the ability of red blood cells to carry oxygen. Nitrites can also be converted into nitric oxide in the body, which can lead to the formation of harmful reactive nitrogen species.
While some brands offer nitrate-free bacon options, it’s important to note that these products may still contain naturally occurring nitrates from ingredients like celery powder. Consumers should also be aware that not all bacon labeled as “nitrate-free” is truly free of synthetic nitrates. It’s always a good idea to read ingredient labels carefully and choose high-quality, minimally processed bacon from trusted sources.
Misleading Labels: What Uncured Bacon Really Means
When browsing the bacon section at the grocery store, you may come across packages labeled as “uncured.” However, this label can be misleading, as all bacon is technically cured in some way. The difference lies in the type of curing agent used.
Uncured bacon is typically cured using natural sources of nitrates, such as celery powder. While these sources may seem more wholesome than synthetic nitrates, they still contain nitrates that can produce carcinogenic compounds in the body. In fact, some studies have shown that naturally occurring nitrates may be even more harmful than synthetic ones.
It’s also worth noting that some “uncured” bacon may actually contain higher levels of nitrates and nitrites than conventionally cured bacon. This is because the nitrite molecule is the same, no matter its source.
If you’re looking to avoid nitrates and nitrites altogether, your best bet is to look for bacon that’s labeled as “nitrate and nitrite-free.” These products are typically cured using only salt and sugar, and may have a shorter shelf life and different texture than conventionally cured bacon.
The Nitrate-Free Option: Bacon Cured With Celery Powder
As mentioned above, many bacon manufacturers have responded to concerns about nitrates by offering “all-natural” varieties that are cured with celery powder instead. However, it’s important to understand that celery powder is naturally high in nitrates, so labeling the bacon as “uncured” or “nitrate-free” is a little misleading.
The reason why the World Health Organization hasn’t called out celery powder-cured bacon is because nitrate-rich vegetables like celery put up natural barriers to keep nitrosamines from forming. These vegetables contain antioxidants like vitamin C that prevent nitrosamine formation. However, the problem with celery powder is that it concentrates the nitrites and removes the antioxidants, so you don’t get the same benefits you would from eating a fresh stick of celery.
In fact, lab tests have shown that using celery powder on bacon creates more nitrites in the meat than curing with sodium nitrite itself. This means that uncured bacon may not be as clean of an option as previously thought.
Despite this, there are still benefits to choosing nitrate-free bacon cured with celery powder. These options are free of synthetic nitrates and are often made with other natural ingredients like sea salt. Additionally, many consumers feel more comfortable choosing these options over traditional bacon that’s cured with synthetic nitrates.
Some popular brands that offer nitrate-free bacon cured with celery powder include Applegate Farms, Niman Ranch, Trader Joe’s, Wellshire Farms, Pederson’s Farms, and Nature’s Rancher. It’s important to read the labels carefully and do your research before purchasing any bacon product to ensure that it meets your dietary needs and preferences.
Top Brands Of Nitrate-Free Bacon To Try
If you’re in the market for nitrate-free bacon, there are several top brands to consider. Here are some of the best options:
1. Applegate Farms: This brand offers a range of nitrate-free bacon products that are cured with celery powder and sea salt. They also avoid using antibiotics and hormones in their pork.
2. Niman Ranch: Known for their humanely-raised pork, Niman Ranch also offers several nitrate-free bacon options. Their bacon is free of artificial ingredients and preservatives.
3. Trader Joe’s: For a more budget-friendly option, Trader Joe’s offers nitrate-free bacon that’s cured with celery powder and sea salt. It’s also free of artificial flavors.
4. Wellshire Farms: This brand offers nitrate-free bacon that’s made from pork that’s been raised without antibiotics or hormones. It’s also free of gluten and casein.
5. Pederson’s Farms: Another popular option for nitrate-free bacon, Pederson’s Farms uses celery powder to cure their bacon. They also avoid using artificial preservatives and flavors.
6. Nature’s Rancher: This brand offers nitrate-free bacon that’s made from pork that’s been raised without antibiotics or hormones. It’s also free of artificial ingredients and preservatives.
While these brands may still contain naturally occurring nitrates, many consumers prefer them over traditional bacon that’s cured with synthetic nitrates. Give them a try and see which one you like best!
Cooking Tips For Nitrate-Free Bacon
Cooking nitrate-free bacon requires a slightly different approach than cooking traditional bacon. Since nitrate-free bacon is not cured with synthetic nitrates, it may not have the same level of preservation and can spoil more quickly. It’s important to check the expiration date and use the bacon within a few days of opening the package.
When cooking nitrate-free bacon, it’s recommended to use a lower heat setting than you would for traditional bacon. This is because nitrate-free bacon can burn more easily due to its lack of preservatives. It’s also a good idea to cook the bacon slowly and evenly to prevent it from becoming too crispy or burnt.
Another tip for cooking nitrate-free bacon is to avoid using oil or butter in the pan. Nitrate-free bacon tends to release more fat than traditional bacon, so adding additional oil or butter can make it greasy and difficult to cook evenly.
Finally, when serving nitrate-free bacon, it’s important to keep in mind that it may have a slightly different taste and texture than traditional bacon. Some people find that nitrate-free bacon has a milder flavor and is less salty than traditional bacon. However, with the right cooking techniques, nitrate-free bacon can still be a delicious addition to any meal.