For consumers prioritizing their health, the presence of nitrates and nitrites in processed deli meat is a common concern. Dietz & Watson, a well-known name in the deli industry, offers a variety of turkey breast products, but not all are made the same. To determine if Dietz and Watson turkey breast is nitrate free, it is essential to understand the different product lines and how to read the labels accurately.
The Breakdown of Dietz & Watson Turkey Products
Dietz & Watson produces several types of turkey breast, including their standard classic line and their premium, health-conscious selections. The key distinction for nitrate content lies primarily within their special lines.
- Naturals and Organic Lines: These product ranges are explicitly created with a focus on 'no' additives. They are marketed as having 'no nitrates or nitrites added' and use only minimal processing. This means their turkey breast products in these categories are indeed nitrate-free, relying instead on natural preservatives.
- Classic and Other Flavored Lines: For other turkey varieties, like their classic, honey-cured, or black forest smoked turkey, a careful check of the ingredients is necessary. Some of these products, particularly those traditionally cured, may contain sodium nitrite or other similar ingredients. While Dietz & Watson has made a company-wide effort to remove added nitrates where possible, it's not a guarantee across all products.
How to Identify Nitrate-Free Labeling
To ensure you are purchasing a turkey breast without added nitrates or nitrites, look for specific terminology on the packaging.
- 'No Nitrates or Nitrites Added': This is the clearest indicator that the manufacturer has not added these chemical preservatives during the production process.
- 'Uncured': This term is often used for products that do not contain added chemical nitrates but may use naturally occurring nitrates from sources like celery powder. While functionally similar, the source is different, and labeling reflects this distinction.
- Ingredients List: The ingredients list will reveal if a product contains sodium nitrite or celery powder/juice, the latter being a natural source of nitrates.
Natural vs. Added Nitrates: The Key Difference
The discussion around nitrates can be confusing, largely because they exist in both natural and synthetic forms. Understanding this difference is crucial for an informed choice.
- Natural Nitrates: These are found in abundance in many vegetables like spinach, celery, and beetroot. When used in food preservation, ingredients like celery powder act as a source of nitrates that convert to nitrites. These are what allow 'uncured' meats to be labeled as such.
- Added Nitrates and Nitrites: These are synthetic chemical compounds, like sodium nitrite, directly added to processed meats to inhibit bacterial growth, preserve flavor, and give the meat a characteristic pink color. These are regulated by agencies like the USDA.
Many consumers prefer natural sources, believing them to be healthier. However, the body processes both types similarly. The key concern for many is the formation of nitrosamines when nitrites in processed meats are exposed to high heat. This risk is why many opt for products without any added synthetic or natural sources of nitrates.
Comparison: Nitrate-Free vs. Cured Turkey Breast
| Feature | Nitrate-Free Turkey Breast (Naturals/Organic) | Cured Turkey Breast (Classic) |
|---|---|---|
| Preservation Method | Minimal processing; uses natural flavors or salts. | Uses added nitrates/nitrites, often sodium nitrite. |
| Labeling | Clearly states 'No Nitrates or Nitrites Added'. | May not have a special callout; check the ingredients list. |
| Health Focus | Appeals to consumers seeking fewer artificial additives. | Standard preservation method; less focus on clean labeling. |
| Flavor/Color | More natural, less reddish or pinkish hue; flavor is more purely turkey-based. | Distinctive 'cured' flavor and characteristic pink color. |
| Ingredients | Typically features simple ingredients; may include natural nitrate sources like celery powder. | Ingredients list will include sodium nitrite and other preservatives. |
Final Recommendations for the Conscious Consumer
- Read the Label: The most reliable way to know if a Dietz & Watson turkey breast is nitrate-free is to check the label for the 'No Nitrates or Nitrites Added' stamp. This is found on their Naturals and Organic lines.
- Look for 'Uncured': If a product is labeled 'uncured', it means no synthetic nitrates were used, but it might still contain natural nitrates from sources like celery powder.
- Consider Natural Alternatives: To avoid both added and natural nitrates in your diet, consider roasting your own turkey breast or seeking out brands that use truly nitrate-free preservation methods.
Conclusion
In summary, yes, certain varieties of Dietz and Watson turkey breast are nitrate free, specifically those from their Naturals and Organic product lines, which clearly state 'No Nitrates or Nitrites Added'. However, not all Dietz and Watson turkey products fall into this category. Consumers must be vigilant and read product labels carefully, especially when choosing from classic or other conventionally cured deli meats, which may contain added sodium nitrite or use natural nitrates for curing. The best practice for anyone concerned about nitrates is to opt for products explicitly labeled 'No Nitrates or Nitrites Added' and be aware that 'uncured' products often contain naturally sourced nitrates.
