Does Oscar Mayer deli meat have nitrates?

According to the World Cancer Research Fund International, processed meats containing nitrites have been linked to an increased cancer risk, raising consumer concern. This has led many to question, does Oscar Mayer deli meat have nitrates, and are their "uncured" products truly nitrate-free?

Quick Summary

Many Oscar Mayer products labeled "uncured" contain nitrates from natural sources like cultured celery juice. Traditional cured products, however, use synthetic nitrates and nitrites.

Key Points

• Not all Oscar Mayer meat has synthetic nitrates: Many "uncured" products, particularly in the Deli Fresh line, use natural alternatives.

• "Uncured" does not mean nitrite-free: Instead of synthetic chemicals, these products use natural sources like cultured celery juice, which contains naturally occurring nitrites.

• Read the ingredient label carefully: Look for specific ingredients like "cultured celery juice" for natural nitrites or "sodium nitrite" for synthetic ones.

• Natural vs. synthetic nitrites are chemically similar: Once in the body, nitrites from natural and synthetic sources function in a comparable way.

• Cured and "uncured" products have different qualities: Cured meats may have a longer shelf life and brighter color, while "uncured" options are often milder in flavor.

• Consumer preference is the ultimate guide: Your choice between cured and "uncured" Oscar Mayer products depends on your dietary priorities and taste preferences.

The Nitrate Controversy: Cured vs. "Uncured"

For decades, meat companies have used nitrates and nitrites, chemical compounds made of nitrogen and oxygen, to cure and preserve meats. These additives serve several important functions, including inhibiting bacterial growth, preserving flavor, and stabilizing the red or pink color of the meat. Public awareness of the potential health risks associated with processed meats has increased the demand for alternatives without synthetic additives. This shift has led to the rise of products labeled "uncured."

This labeling, regulated by the USDA, can be misleading. "Uncured" means the meat wasn't preserved using synthetic nitrates and nitrites. Instead, manufacturers use natural sources like cultured celery juice or celery powder. A product cured with celery powder is still cured, but the use of natural ingredients allows it to be labeled "uncured" with a qualifying phrase like: "No nitrates or nitrites added except those naturally occurring in cultured celery juice". The body processes natural and synthetic nitrites similarly.

The Oscar Mayer Approach to Deli Meat Preservation

Oscar Mayer offers both traditional cured products and a line of "uncured" deli meats under its Deli Fresh brand. Their Smoked Uncured Ham, for example, states it has "No Nitrates Or Nitrites Added Except Those Naturally Occurring In Cultured Celery Juice". Other items, like their Deli Fresh Oven Roasted Turkey, make similar claims. Reading the fine print is essential. A "cured" label likely means synthetic nitrites, while an "uncured" label will specify the natural source.

The Role of Celery Powder in Uncured Meats

Celery powder is common in "uncured" products. Celery is naturally high in nitrates, which are converted to nitrites by fermentation and then used for curing. This process serves the same function as synthetic sodium nitrite. While synthetic additives are avoided, nitrites are still consumed.

Cured vs. "Uncured" Oscar Mayer Deli Meats Comparison

Feature	Traditional Cured Oscar Mayer Deli Meat	Oscar Mayer "Uncured" Deli Meat
Preservation Method	Uses synthetic sodium nitrite or sodium nitrate.	Uses naturally occurring nitrites from sources like cultured celery juice.
Labeling	Labeled as "cured" or mentions specific chemical preservatives.	Labeled as "uncured" and includes a statement like "No Nitrates or Nitrites Added Except Those Naturally Occurring in Cultured Celery Juice".
Source of Nitrites	Lab-produced chemical compounds.	Natural vegetable sources, such as cultured celery powder or juice.
Taste Profile	Distinct salty, smoky, and preserved flavor often associated with cured meat.	Milder flavor profile, though can be enhanced with natural spices.
Appearance	Often has a more vibrant pink or red color due to the synthetic nitrites.	Coloration may be less uniform, reflecting the natural curing process.
Shelf Life	Longer shelf life due to the robust preservative action of synthetic nitrites.	Shorter shelf life due to reliance on natural, less concentrated preservatives.

How to Identify the Nitrite Source

To determine the nitrite source in Oscar Mayer products:

1. Check the front label: Look for "uncured".
2. Read the ingredient list: For "uncured" products, look for "cultured celery juice," or similar phrasing. Cured meats list "sodium nitrite" or "sodium nitrate".
3. Look for the USDA statement: "Uncured" products must have a disclaimer like "No nitrates or nitrites added except those naturally occurring in cultured celery juice".

Conclusion: What’s the Takeaway?

Some Oscar Mayer deli meats contain synthetic nitrates and nitrites (cured products), while others use natural nitrites from sources like celery juice ("uncured" products). "Uncured" means natural nitrites are used instead of synthetic ones, not that the product is nitrite-free. Consumers should carefully read labels to make informed choices. For further reading, see the NIH's detailed review of nitrites and nitrates in meat processing: Nitrite and nitrate in meat processing: Functions and alternatives.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary difference between cured and "uncured" deli meat from Oscar Mayer?

The main difference is the source of the curing agent. Cured Oscar Mayer meats use synthetic sodium nitrite, while "uncured" versions use natural nitrites derived from ingredients like cultured celery juice.

Does Oscar Mayer put nitrates in their "uncured" deli meat?

Oscar Mayer's "uncured" deli meats do not have synthetic nitrates or nitrites added. However, they do contain naturally occurring nitrites from ingredients like cultured celery juice, as noted on their labels.

Are the natural nitrites from celery powder healthier than synthetic nitrites?

From a chemical perspective, natural nitrites and synthetic nitrites are largely indistinguishable to the body. The health implications are a subject of ongoing debate, but the World Health Organization has classified processed meat in general as potentially carcinogenic.

How can I tell if an Oscar Mayer product is cured with synthetic nitrites?

Look at the ingredient list on the package. If it contains synthetic nitrites, it will explicitly list "sodium nitrite" or "sodium nitrate." "Uncured" products will not have these listed.

Do all Oscar Mayer Deli Fresh products use natural nitrites?

The Deli Fresh line includes many "uncured" products that use natural nitrites, such as their uncured hams and some turkey breasts. However, it is essential to check the specific product's label, as not all items within the brand may follow the same process.

Why do some deli meats use celery juice instead of synthetic nitrites?

Companies use celery juice to meet the demand for products with fewer artificial ingredients. Celery juice contains natural nitrates that are converted to nitrites to preserve the meat, allowing the product to be labeled "uncured".

Does the use of natural nitrites affect the flavor of Oscar Mayer deli meat?

Yes, some consumers and food experts note a difference in flavor. "Uncured" meats, relying on natural preservatives, often have a milder, less salty taste compared to traditionally cured products.