The Nuance of “No Nitrates Added” on Boar’s Head Products
Many consumers seeking a 'cleaner' diet are specifically searching for foods without artificial additives, including nitrates. The term 'no nitrates added' can be misleading, as it doesn't always mean the product is entirely free of these compounds. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) allows products to be labeled this way if no synthetic nitrates or nitrites are used during the curing process. However, natural sources of nitrates are often used instead.
Boar's Head, a brand known for its quality, offers several deli meats in an "All Natural*" or "Organic" collection that specifies "no nitrates or nitrites added". A closer inspection of the fine print, and the ingredients list, often reveals an important clarification: "except for those naturally occurring in cultured celery powder and sea salt". This practice allows manufacturers to cure meat using vegetable-based sources of nitrates, appealing to consumers who prefer a 'natural' label.
The Role of Naturally Occurring Nitrates
In nature, nitrates are abundant, particularly in vegetables like spinach, beets, and celery. Celery powder, a common ingredient in these products, contains naturally occurring nitrates that are converted to nitrites by bacteria during the curing process. These nitrites serve the same purpose as their synthetic counterparts: inhibiting the growth of harmful bacteria like Clostridium botulinum, extending shelf life, and preserving color.
Natural vs. Synthetic Nitrates: Does it Matter?
For many years, synthetic nitrates in processed meats were linked to the formation of carcinogenic nitrosamines, especially when cooked at high temperatures. This led to regulations on the amount of nitrates used and the addition of inhibitors like vitamin C. The perception arose that natural sources were safer, but according to medical toxicologists, the body recognizes and processes both natural and synthetic nitrates in a similar way.
The Formation of Nitrosamines
The potential for nitrosamine formation is the primary health concern associated with nitrites. However, this typically happens under specific conditions, namely high heat (like frying bacon) and the presence of amines from the meat. Many factors, including added vitamin C and the cooking method, can influence this chemical reaction. In the context of deli meat like turkey, which is not typically fried, the risk is different than with, for example, cured bacon. It is also important to remember that dietary nitrates from vegetables are associated with health benefits, largely due to other compounds like antioxidants.
A Comparative Look at Boar's Head Turkey
When choosing a Boar's Head turkey for a nutrition-conscious diet, it's beneficial to compare the different product lines. For example, a standard product like the Ovengold Roasted Turkey is different from the All Natural or Organic versions.
| Feature | Boar's Head All Natural Oven Roasted Turkey | Boar's Head Ovengold Roasted Turkey |
|---|---|---|
| Nitrates/Nitrites | No nitrates or nitrites added (except those naturally occurring in sea salt) | Contains sodium phosphate and dextrose, no such specific claim about added nitrates/nitrites |
| Ingredients | All Natural* ingredients, minimally processed | Seasoned with aromatic spices and slow roasted |
| Sodium | 440mg per 2oz serving | 360mg per 2oz serving |
| Hormones/Antibiotics | No added hormones or antibiotics ever | Federal regulations prohibit the use of hormones in turkey |
| Key Flavor Notes | Authentic, simple roasted flavor | Homestyle, classic flavor |
Other Nutritional Considerations
Beyond nitrates, a holistic nutrition diet requires consideration of other factors. Some Boar's Head products are also certified heart-healthy by the American Heart Association and are lower in sodium. All turkey is a good source of high-quality protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues. Turkey is also naturally lower in fat compared to many red meats, especially breast meat. However, excessive sodium intake, a common issue with processed meats, is a risk factor for high blood pressure and heart disease. Consumers should look at the overall nutrition label, not just the nitrate claim, to make the best choice for their health.
Making an Informed Choice
Making the best choice comes down to personal health goals and understanding the labeling. Here is a quick guide:
- Read the full ingredients list: Don't just rely on the front label's bold claims. Check for phrases like "cultured celery powder" or "sea salt" that indicate natural nitrate sources.
- Consider the source: If you are committed to avoiding nitrates, even natural ones, your best bet is fresh, unprocessed turkey meat. Otherwise, compare the ingredients of "All Natural" or "Organic" products with their conventional counterparts.
- Evaluate your diet overall: A balanced nutrition diet considers a range of factors beyond just one ingredient. Look at the total sodium, fat, and protein content.
- Consider cooking methods: If cooking cured products, using lower heat can help minimize the potential formation of nitrosamines.
Conclusion
In summary, the claim that Boar's Head turkey is nitrate free requires careful interpretation. While many of its products, particularly the "All Natural" and "Organic" lines, are made with no added synthetic nitrates or nitrites, they do contain naturally occurring versions from ingredients like cultured celery powder. The body processes these naturally derived nitrates similarly to synthetic ones. A consumer's best approach for a healthy nutrition diet is to read labels thoroughly, consider overall sodium and fat content, and understand that even so-called "natural" preservatives play the same chemical role as their artificial counterparts. For those seeking to avoid all forms of nitrates, the most reliable option is fresh, unprocessed poultry.
Shop the Boar's Head All Natural Collection to see more ingredient details.
