Not All Nathan's Hot Dogs Are Created Equal
The perception that all of Nathan's famous hot dogs are made without nitrates or nitrites is a common misconception. The truth is, Nathan's offers both traditional hot dogs, which include synthetic sodium nitrite, and newer "all-natural uncured" varieties, which rely on naturally occurring nitrates. The key to understanding the difference lies in the product label. When shopping, consumers must look for the specific "uncured" label and review the ingredient list to determine the presence of curing agents.
The All-Natural 'Uncured' Hot Dogs
Nathan's "All Natural Uncured Beef Franks" are the products intended for consumers seeking a nitrate-free option. Instead of using synthetic sodium nitrite, these hot dogs are cured with naturally occurring nitrites derived from celery juice powder and sea salt.
- Cultured Celery Juice: This is a key ingredient used to provide the natural nitrites necessary for curing. The nitrates in the celery are converted to nitrites by bacterial action, performing the same preservative function as synthetic sodium nitrite.
- No Added Nitrates or Nitrites: The packaging for these specific products explicitly states "no nitrates or nitrites added," but with an important asterisk clarifying, "except those naturally occurring in sea salt and cultured celery juice".
- Preservation and Color: The natural nitrites from the celery juice are responsible for preserving the hot dog's shelf life and giving it the characteristic pink color, just like their synthetic counterparts.
The Traditional 'Cured' Hot Dogs
For most of its history, and still today, Nathan's has produced traditional hot dogs that are cured with synthetic sodium nitrite. These are the classic, well-known franks served at their restaurants and sold widely in stores.
- Ingredient Labeling: Products like the "Hot & Spicy Beef Franks" or the "Cheddar Cheese Beef Franks" include "sodium nitrite" in their ingredient lists.
- Preservation and Safety: Sodium nitrite acts as a preservative to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria, such as Clostridium botulinum, and is crucial for food safety.
- Flavor and Color: This additive also contributes to the distinct flavor and reddish-pink color associated with cured meats.
The Natural vs. Synthetic Nitrate Debate
At a molecular level, the nitrite derived from celery powder is identical to the synthetic sodium nitrite added to other hot dogs. The primary difference is the source and the marketing around it. Some argue that relying on natural nitrites is healthier, while others contend that the health risks associated with cured meats are the same, regardless of the nitrite source.
Comparison Table: Uncured vs. Traditional Nathan's Hot Dogs
| Feature | Nathan's All Natural Uncured Franks | Nathan's Traditional Cured Franks |
|---|---|---|
| Curing Agent | Naturally occurring nitrites from celery juice powder and sea salt | Synthetic Sodium Nitrite |
| Labeling | "Uncured" and "No nitrates or nitrites added**" | Lists "sodium nitrite" in ingredients |
| Nitrate Source | Vegetable-based (Celery) | Chemical additive |
| Potential Health Concerns | Similar to other cured meats due to the chemical action of nitrites | Potential health risks from nitrosamine formation at high heat |
| Regulatory Labeling | Required by USDA to be labeled "uncured" despite being cured | No special labeling beyond ingredient list |
What This Means for Consumers
Ultimately, the choice between uncured and traditional hot dogs comes down to personal preference and health considerations. While the "uncured" label may suggest a healthier, nitrate-free product, it's important to be aware that it still contains naturally sourced nitrites. For those concerned about all forms of nitrites, regardless of source, both products contain the curing agents. However, for consumers seeking to avoid synthetic additives, Nathan's all-natural uncured franks are the correct choice.
Reading the Fine Print
The asterisk on Nathan's uncured products is the key detail. It refers to a critical piece of information that differentiates the product from those made with synthetic nitrates. Always read the ingredient list carefully, and if celery powder or cultured celery juice is listed, know that the product contains naturally derived nitrates.
Other Factors to Consider
It's important to remember that hot dogs, regardless of their curing method, are still a processed food. Health considerations should also include factors like sodium content and fat. Nathan's uncured hot dogs, while free of added synthetic nitrites, may still have relatively high sodium levels compared to other brands.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the claim that all Nathan's hot dogs are nitrate free is false. The company sells both conventional hot dogs made with added sodium nitrite and a separate line of "all-natural uncured" hot dogs. The uncured variety contains naturally occurring nitrates derived from cultured celery juice, meaning it is not completely free of nitrites, but rather free of synthetic ones. For consumers concerned about food additives, the key is to look for the "uncured" label and read the fine print about celery juice powder. The distinction highlights the nuance in food labeling and the importance of informed purchasing decisions.
