Are you on the hunt for nitrate-free bacon?
You’re not alone.
Many people are concerned about the potential health risks associated with consuming nitrates and nitrites, which are commonly used in the curing process of bacon.
But what exactly does “nitrate-free” mean? And who makes it?
In this article, we’ll explore the truth behind nitrate-free bacon and take a closer look at the companies that are producing it.
Get ready to learn more about your favorite breakfast food!
Who Makes Nitrate Free Bacon?
When it comes to nitrate-free bacon, there are a few different options on the market.
First, there are companies that use natural curing agents like celery powder to achieve the same effect as nitrates. These products may be labeled as “uncured” or “no nitrates or nitrites added,” but it’s important to note that they still contain naturally occurring nitrites from the celery powder.
Some popular brands that offer nitrate-free bacon include Applegate Farms, Niman Ranch, and Wellshire Farms. These companies use natural curing agents and avoid synthetic nitrates and nitrites in their bacon products.
Another option for nitrate-free bacon is to look for products that are labeled as “nitrate-free” or “nitrite-free.” These products are typically cured using alternative methods, such as using vegetable juice or sea salt.
One company that offers nitrate-free bacon is Pederson’s Natural Farms. They use a blend of sea salt and vegetable juice powder to cure their bacon, resulting in a product that is free from synthetic nitrates and nitrites.
What Are Nitrates And Nitrites?
Nitrates and nitrites are chemical compounds that are commonly used as preservatives in processed meats, including bacon. Nitrate is a naturally occurring compound found in soil, water, and certain vegetables, while nitrite is formed when nitrate is converted by bacteria or enzymes.
The use of nitrates and nitrites in food has been controversial because when heated with proteins, such as those found in bacon, they can form carcinogenic compounds called nitrosamines. Nitrosamines have been linked to an increased risk of cancer, particularly stomach cancer.
Regular bacon is cured with nitrite or a virtually identical chemical, nitrate, both of which act as preservatives. Bacon labeled as “nitrate- or nitrite-free” is brined with salt, a bacterial lactic acid starter culture, and celery juice (sometimes listed as “natural flavor”). However, celery juice naturally contains a high level of organic nitrate, which is converted to the problematic nitrite by the bacteria in the starter culture and also by saliva during chewing.
Despite this fact, it’s technically correct to label the bacon “no nitrates or nitrites added,” since the compounds are formed during production, not added as ingredients. While there are concerns about the potential health risks associated with nitrates and nitrites in food, it’s important to note that all bacon is likely to contain these compounds to some extent, whether added at the outset or formed naturally during processing.
The Potential Health Risks Of Nitrates And Nitrites
Nitrates and nitrites are commonly used in the food industry as preservatives, particularly in processed meats like bacon, ham, and hot dogs. However, these compounds can pose potential health risks if consumed in large amounts.
When nitrates and nitrites are cooked at high temperatures, they can form nitrosamines, which are known carcinogens. Nitrosamines have been linked to an increased risk of cancer, particularly colorectal cancer. In fact, the World Health Organization has classified processed meats as Group 1 carcinogens, meaning they are known to cause cancer in humans.
While some companies offer nitrate-free bacon products, it’s important to note that these products may still contain naturally occurring nitrites from other sources like celery powder. Additionally, some studies suggest that the use of natural curing agents may actually result in higher levels of nitrosamines than synthetic nitrates and nitrites.
To reduce your exposure to nitrates and nitrites, it’s recommended to limit your consumption of processed meats and opt for fresh, whole foods instead. If you do choose to consume processed meats, look for products that are labeled as “uncured” or “no nitrates or nitrites added,” and cook them at lower temperatures to reduce the formation of nitrosamines.
What Does Nitrate-Free Mean?
Nitrate-free bacon refers to bacon products that do not contain synthetic nitrates or nitrites. Instead, these products are cured using natural alternatives such as celery powder, vegetable juice, or sea salt. However, it’s important to note that nitrate-free bacon still contains naturally occurring nitrites from these natural curing agents.
The labeling of “uncured” or “no nitrates or nitrites added” can be misleading, as these products still contain nitrites from the natural curing agents used. It’s important to read the ingredient list carefully and understand what is meant by the labeling on the product.
The Debate Around Nitrate-Free Bacon
Despite the popularity of nitrate-free bacon, there is still debate surrounding its health benefits. While some consumers are concerned about the potential health risks associated with synthetic nitrates and nitrites in traditionally cured meats, others argue that nitrate-free bacon may not necessarily be a healthier option.
One issue with nitrate-free bacon is that it can still produce carcinogenic compounds in the body. This is because naturally occurring nitrates in celery powder or other curing agents can be converted to nitrites during processing, and then to harmful nitrosamines when cooked at high temperatures.
Additionally, some studies have shown that naturally occurring nitrates in vegetables like spinach and beets may actually have health benefits, such as reducing blood pressure and preventing cancer.
Furthermore, there is debate over whether the levels of nitrites and nitrates in nitrate-free bacon are actually lower than in traditionally cured bacon. Some studies have found that nitrate-free bacon can contain higher levels of these compounds due to the use of natural curing agents like celery powder.
Companies That Produce Nitrate-Free Bacon
If you’re looking for companies that produce nitrate-free bacon, there are a few options to consider. One popular brand is Applegate Farms, which offers a range of uncured bacon products that are free from synthetic nitrates and nitrites. They use natural curing agents like celery powder to achieve the same effect as nitrates, but it’s important to note that their products still contain naturally occurring nitrites from the celery powder.
Niman Ranch is another company that offers nitrate-free bacon. They use a natural curing process that involves sea salt and raw sugar, resulting in a product that is free from synthetic nitrates and nitrites. Their bacon is also free from antibiotics and hormones.
Wellshire Farms is yet another option for those seeking nitrate-free bacon. They use a blend of sea salt and vegetable juice concentrate to cure their bacon, resulting in a product that is free from synthetic nitrates and nitrites. Their bacon is also free from antibiotics and hormones.
Finally, Pederson’s Natural Farms offers a range of nitrate-free bacon products. They use a blend of sea salt and vegetable juice powder to cure their bacon, resulting in a product that is free from synthetic nitrates and nitrites. Their bacon is also free from antibiotics and hormones, making it a great option for those seeking a more natural and healthy product.
How To Find Nitrate-Free Bacon In Your Area
If you’re interested in finding nitrate-free bacon in your area, there are a few different strategies you can use.
First, check your local grocery stores and specialty food shops. Look for products that are labeled as “uncured” or “no nitrates or nitrites added.” You may also want to ask a store employee for recommendations or information about their bacon products.
Another option is to search online for local butchers or meat markets that offer nitrate-free bacon. These businesses may be more likely to offer custom cuts of meat and alternative curing methods.
If you’re having trouble finding nitrate-free bacon in your area, consider reaching out to local farmers or meat producers. Many small-scale farmers and producers offer nitrate-free bacon as part of their product line, and may be willing to sell directly to consumers.
Finally, don’t be afraid to experiment with making your own bacon at home. You can purchase pork belly from a butcher or meat market, and cure it using alternative methods like sea salt, sugar, and spices. This can be a fun and rewarding way to ensure that your bacon is free from synthetic nitrates and nitrites.
