Why " nitrate free" isnt really free of nitrates- and companies that are
You might have heard about the link between eating high amounts of Processed meats and increased risks of colorectal cancers.. but two new large studies are giving you even more reasons to, literally, skip the bacon.
Two new major studies found associations between certain food preservatives and breast cancer, prostate cancer and overall xancer
specifics:
Sodium Nitrite (used to cure bacon, ham, sausage and other meats and other processed meats) was associated with a 32% increased risk of prostate cancer.
Potassium Nitrate was linked to a 22% higher risk of breast cancer and a 13% increased risk of all cancers.
What about No Nitrates/Nitrites Added" Label?
While this means that there are no added synthetic nitrates like those mentioned in the study, these products contain natural nitrates.
Ultimately, the concern is that All nitrites ( synthetic and natural) can be converted in the food, during cooking, or in the body into nitrosamines, which are carcinogenic
Best option?
minimize both synthetic and natural nitrates and
favor freshly made, minimally processed foods.
How?
Understand that the label of "no nitrates" " nitrate free" is just referring to synthetic nitrate
Avoid celery powder and celery juice or celery extract
Look for products that are absolutely free of any curing agents, including celery powder, celery juice, or celery extract. these will likely just contain coars salt, ( Used in high concentrations to draw out moisture and prevent spoilage)
Remember: opting for fresh, unprocessed meats (poultry, pork, beef) which do not require preservatives to maintain color or prevent botulism, is always better.
notes
Some products use celery powder in combination with ingredients like cherry powder or rosemary extract, which can help inhibit the formation of nitrosamines, though eating less processed meat remains the best option
Companies makingCured Meats/ Deli Meats with NO nitrates ( not synthetic nor natural)
Prosciutto di Parma
• Ingredients: pork + sea salt
Brand: San Daniele
Jamón Serrano / Iberico
• Pork + salt/ Long dry-cure
brands: Fermin, Palacios, Jamondor, Monte Nevado
Turkey
organic Nuna: 100% organic turkey, water, and salt ( their ham does use celery powder)
Diestel family ranch roasted turkey: just turkey
Salami: from Na*Kyrsie Meats ( Ohio): Uses fermentation and salt curing.
Other: Maclean meats ( Canada)