Understanding the 'No Nitrates or Nitrites Added' Label
Many consumers are concerned about the health implications of nitrates and nitrites, chemical compounds used in curing meats to preserve them and prevent bacterial growth. For Boar's Head Ovengold Turkey, the company explicitly labels the product with "No Nitrates or Nitrites Added". This is a crucial distinction that separates it from conventionally cured deli meats.
Why the 'No Nitrates Added' Claim Matters
The presence of nitrates and nitrites has been a subject of debate for years within the nutritional community. When exposed to high heat or a certain environment, nitrates can convert into nitrosamines, which some studies link to certain health risks. This is why many people prefer to buy products with a 'no added nitrates' label. The label on Boar's Head Ovengold indicates that it is not cured with synthetic sodium nitrite or sodium nitrate, which are commonly used in traditional meat processing.
The Role of Naturally Occurring Nitrates
It's important to understand that a "no nitrates or nitrites added" label doesn't mean the product is entirely free of these compounds. Many products, particularly those labeled as 'natural' or 'uncured,' use naturally occurring sources of nitrates, most commonly cultured celery powder and sea salt. Celery powder, for example, is naturally rich in nitrates that convert to nitrites during the curing process, performing a similar function to synthetic additives. However, for Boar's Head Ovengold, a look at the ingredients list on the company website or product packaging reveals that it is not processed with these common 'natural' sources. The ingredients for Ovengold include turkey breast, water, salt, sugar, sodium phosphate, and dextrose.
Decoding the Ingredient List: Boar's Head Ovengold vs. 'Natural' Options
Comparing Boar's Head Ovengold to other products, including Boar's Head's own 'All Natural' or 'Organic' lines, clarifies the difference in processing. The Ovengold turkey is a conventionally made product that simply omits the synthetic nitrates and nitrites. In contrast, Boar's Head's 'All Natural' or 'Organic' roasted turkey options typically include cultured celery powder and sea salt, which provide the naturally occurring nitrates. This distinction is critical for consumers who are aiming to reduce all sources of nitrates, both synthetic and natural.
A Closer Look at Additives
While Ovengold does not have added nitrates, it does contain other ingredients, such as sodium phosphate, to help maintain moisture and texture. This makes it a minimally processed product, but still processed nonetheless. The 'All Natural' versions, while using 'natural' preservatives, also contain added ingredients to assist in curing and flavor. This difference in ingredient lists is the primary point of contrast for those evaluating deli meat options.
Choosing the Right Deli Meat: Ovengold and Other Alternatives
When at the deli counter, understanding the labeling can be confusing. Here is a brief guide to help you decide which product best fits your dietary needs.
- Boar's Head Ovengold: For those concerned about synthetic nitrates and nitrites specifically, this product is a good choice. Its simple list of ingredients is a plus for many. It's available at most deli counters and a widely trusted brand.
- Boar's Head All Natural/Organic: These are a step up in terms of processing, as they do not use any synthetic additives and rely on natural preservatives. This is the choice for consumers seeking to avoid both synthetic and natural curing agents derived from cultured celery powder.
- Store-Brand and Other Cured Meats: Many other deli meats, especially cheaper store brands, often use synthetic nitrates and nitrites. These typically have a much longer shelf life and are not considered a 'clean label' product by those focused on minimal ingredients.
Comparison Table: Ovengold vs. Alternatives
| Feature | Boar's Head Ovengold | Boar's Head All Natural | Traditional Cured Deli Meat |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nitrates/Nitrites Added? | No synthetic nitrates or nitrites added. | No nitrates or nitrites added (except naturally occurring in sea salt/celery powder). | Synthetic nitrates and nitrites added. |
| Preservation Method | Minimal ingredients, relies on refrigeration. | Natural sources like celery powder and sea salt. | Synthetic chemical preservatives (e.g., sodium nitrite). |
| Ingredients | Turkey Breast, Water, Salt, Sugar, Sodium Phosphate, Dextrose. | Turkey Breast, Water, Organic Sugar, Sea Salt, Cultured Celery Powder. | Varies, but often includes sodium nitrite and flavorings. |
| Consumer Focus | Avoiding synthetic additives. | Avoiding all nitrates/nitrites (synthetic and natural). | Long shelf life, lower cost. |
The Health Context of Deli Meats
Beyond the nitrate question, it's important to view deli meat consumption in the context of overall health. The World Health Organization classifies processed meat as a Group 1 carcinogen, and this designation includes meat that has been cured, salted, or otherwise preserved. While many studies focus on nitrates and nitrites, other factors like high sodium content also play a role in health outcomes. Ovengold has a moderate amount of sodium, but it is still important to monitor intake as part of a balanced diet. The healthiest option remains unprocessed, home-cooked turkey breast. For the convenience of deli meat, Ovengold stands as a reasonable choice, but should not be the sole source of protein.
Conclusion: Making an Informed Choice
In conclusion, Boar's Head Ovengold Turkey is indeed nitrate-free, but only in the sense that it does not contain added synthetic nitrates or nitrites. This is a significant distinction for health-conscious consumers. It's also distinct from the company's 'All Natural' or 'Organic' lines, which rely on naturally occurring nitrates from cultured celery powder. Ultimately, understanding these subtle differences in labeling is key to making the best choice for your health and diet. For anyone seeking to completely eliminate nitrates, purchasing unprocessed turkey is the only guaranteed route. For deli-style convenience, Ovengold is a better choice than traditionally cured options, but should be consumed in moderation alongside a varied diet.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Boar's Head Ovengold Turkey processed?
Yes, Boar's Head Ovengold Turkey is a minimally processed deli meat, though it does not contain synthetic nitrates or nitrites. The ingredient list includes additives like sodium phosphate to maintain texture and moisture.
What is the difference between Ovengold and Boar's Head 'All Natural' turkey?
The key difference is in the curing agents. Ovengold has no synthetic nitrates/nitrites, while the 'All Natural' and 'Organic' versions use naturally occurring nitrates from sources like cultured celery powder.
Is Boar's Head Ovengold healthier than other deli meats?
It can be considered a healthier option than traditionally cured deli meats that contain synthetic nitrates and nitrites. However, it still contains sodium and is processed, so it is not as healthy as unprocessed, home-cooked turkey breast.
What are naturally occurring nitrates?
Naturally occurring nitrates are chemical compounds found in many vegetables, like celery. In meat processing, cultured celery powder is often used as a natural alternative to synthetic nitrates to help preserve the meat.
Can I find a completely nitrate-free deli turkey?
To find a truly nitrate-free turkey, you would need to purchase an uncured, preservative-free product, likely from a specialty butcher or health food store. Most 'natural' deli meats use naturally occurring nitrates.
Is it safe to eat deli meat with no added nitrates?
Yes, deli meat with no added synthetic nitrates is generally considered safe. The lack of synthetic nitrates is a preference for many consumers, and it doesn't pose additional risks compared to other minimally processed meats.
What should I look for on the label?
Look for a label that states "No Nitrates or Nitrites Added." For the most natural option, check the ingredients list to see if it mentions cultured celery powder or sea salt, which indicates natural curing.
