What 'No Nitrates or Nitrites Added' Truly Means for Applegate
Applegate's commitment to avoiding synthetic ingredients is a major selling point for health-conscious consumers. The brand clearly states that its products, such as bacon, hot dogs, and deli meats, do not contain added chemical nitrites or nitrates. However, this declaration often leads to a common misunderstanding. The key to deciphering the label lies in the asterisk, which points to a qualifying statement like 'Except those naturally occurring in sea salt and cultured celery powder'.
The USDA requires products cured with synthetic nitrates to be labeled as 'cured'. Since Applegate uses naturally derived nitrates from sources like celery powder, its products are legally required to be labeled as 'uncured.' Despite this distinction, the naturally occurring nitrates in celery powder serve the same purpose as synthetic versions: preserving the meat, preventing bacterial growth, and providing the characteristic pink color.
The Science Behind Natural vs. Synthetic Nitrates
When it comes to the human body, the source of the nitrate makes little difference. Whether they come from synthetic sodium nitrate or naturally sourced celery powder, nitrates convert to nitrites and then potentially to N-nitroso compounds (NOCs), which are possible carcinogens. However, this reaction depends on several factors, including cooking temperature and the presence of antioxidants. The perceived health difference often comes down to the overall product. An Applegate hot dog, for example, is made from humanely raised, antibiotic-free meat, which many people prefer over a conventional hot dog, even if both contain nitrites.
- The Curing Process: Applegate's natural curing process involves a brine or marinade of sea salt, spices, and cultured celery powder. The brine is injected into the meat to ensure even flavor and preservation.
- Labeling Regulations: USDA labeling laws are outdated and can be confusing. They mandate that products cured with vegetable-derived nitrates be labeled 'uncured' despite undergoing a curing process.
- Nitrite Levels: The natural curing agents in Applegate products result in nitrite levels well below the USDA's limit of 200 parts per million. In fact, Applegate's end products typically contain less than 40 parts per million.
Applegate Products and Their Nitrate Content
Not all Applegate products are processed in the same way, but the 'no nitrates or nitrites added' asterisk is a consistent feature for many cured items. Products that do not require curing, such as their fresh sausages, are genuinely free of any added nitrates or nitrites.
A Comparison of Curing Methods
| Feature | Applegate 'Natural' Cured Products | Traditional Cured Products |
|---|---|---|
| Curing Agent Source | Naturally occurring nitrates from celery powder and sea salt | Synthetic chemical nitrates, like sodium nitrate |
| USDA Labeling | Labeled 'uncured' due to source of nitrates | Labeled 'cured' because of synthetic nitrates |
| Animal Welfare | Animals raised humanely without antibiotics | Varies widely, often from conventionally raised animals |
| Additional Additives | Free of artificial ingredients and preservatives | May contain artificial colors and preservatives |
| Nitrite Level | Less than 40 parts per million | Can contain up to 200 parts per million |
Consumer Considerations and Conclusion
Ultimately, deciding whether Applegate products are a good choice depends on your personal priorities. If your primary goal is to avoid all nitrates and nitrites, regardless of their source, then Applegate products that are cured (even naturally) are not for you. In this case, truly unprocessed meats or fresh, uncured alternatives are the only way to go. If your goal is to avoid synthetic chemicals and support better animal welfare, then Applegate is an excellent choice.
It is important to remember that celery powder is simply a concentrated, natural source of nitrates. For example, fresh, whole celery, spinach, and other vegetables also contain nitrates. A balanced diet is always the best approach. Applegate maintains that naturally cured meats, enjoyed in moderation, can be part of a healthy diet, and they advocate for consumer education to make informed decisions. For those who wish to avoid all nitrates, regardless of origin, the solution is to purchase fresh, unprocessed meat. However, for those looking to avoid synthetic additives, Applegate's naturally cured products offer a viable alternative.
The Future of Labeling
The USDA is aware of the confusion surrounding 'uncured' labels and has planned updates to clarify the issue. This reflects a growing consumer demand for transparency and a better understanding of what is in their food. Until new regulations are implemented, consumers must continue to rely on the ingredient list and the fine print associated with the 'no nitrates added' claim. The Applegate website offers clear information about their processes and commitment to natural ingredients.
