Decoding the "No Added Nitrates or Nitrites" Label
When you pick up a package of Jimmy Dean 'All Natural' Fully Cooked Turkey Sausage Patties or Links, you'll see a prominent claim that states "no nitrates or nitrites added". For many consumers, this is a clear sign that the product is free of these preservatives. However, a deeper look at the ingredients list and USDA regulations reveals a crucial detail.
The fine print often clarifies that this exclusion is "except for those naturally occurring in celery powder" or other natural sources. Celery powder, which is high in naturally occurring nitrates, is a common ingredient used in many 'uncured' or 'naturally cured' processed meats. When these products are fermented or processed, the bacteria convert the naturally occurring nitrates into nitrites, which serve the same purpose as synthetic sodium nitrite: inhibiting bacterial growth, enhancing color, and preserving flavor. This means the final product contains nitrites, even if they weren't added in their synthetic form.
The Role of Celery Powder
Celery powder is not just an innocent seasoning. It is a potent, albeit natural, source of nitrates. To prepare it for use as a curing agent, celery juice is often treated with bacterial cultures to create a concentrated source of nitrite. The USDA allows organic products to use this method, as the nitrates are naturally occurring, rather than synthetically added. The result is a sausage that has a cured appearance and flavor, but with a label that can be confusing to consumers seeking to avoid nitrites altogether.
Understanding the Difference: Synthetic vs. Natural Nitrates
From a chemical perspective, there is no difference between a nitrite molecule derived from celery powder and one from synthetic sodium nitrite. The health context, however, is what many people focus on. When nitrites in processed meat are exposed to high heat, they can react with amino acids to form N-nitroso compounds, or nitrosamines, which are potential carcinogens. While this is a concern for all cured meats, products using celery powder might include additional antioxidants (like Vitamin C from the celery) that can help counteract the formation of nitrosamines, though this is not a guaranteed protective effect.
Vegetables like leafy greens, which are a major source of dietary nitrates, contain antioxidants and other beneficial compounds that are thought to mitigate any negative effects. In contrast, the nitrates derived for meat processing are concentrated and used specifically for curing. The key takeaway is that the source matters less than the overall context of the food. Highly processed meats, regardless of the nitrite source, are generally associated with poorer health outcomes compared to diets rich in whole foods. For more detailed information on food additives, a resource like the Harvard Health blog can provide further insights.
Comparison of Cured and Uncured Sausage
| Feature | Conventional Cured Sausage (e.g., standard pork sausage) | Uncured/Naturally Cured Sausage (e.g., Jimmy Dean 'All Natural' turkey sausage) |
|---|---|---|
| Curing Agent | Synthetic sodium nitrite is added directly. | Celery powder or other vegetable-based nitrates are used. |
| Labeling | Lists "Sodium Nitrite" in the ingredients. | Often states "No nitrates or nitrites added*" with an asterisk explaining the use of natural sources. |
| Processing | Cured directly with a purified source of nitrite. | Relies on naturally occurring nitrates from a vegetable source, which are converted to nitrites. |
| Appearance | Retains a distinct pink or red cured meat color due to the nitrites. | Can also have a cured appearance, and some brands may have a grayish cooked color. |
| Health Context | Nitrites can form nitrosamines at high heat. Often part of a diet high in processed foods. | Still contains nitrites, but often viewed as a more 'natural' alternative, though health differences are debated. |
How to Choose the Right Sausage for You
For those who want to completely avoid added and naturally occurring nitrites in their sausage, the best approach is to read the ingredients list carefully. The presence of 'celery powder,' 'celery juice powder,' or 'cultured celery powder' is a signal that nitrites are present, even if not synthetically added. True, uncured, and nitrite-free sausage is typically just ground meat and spices, and will often appear gray when cooked, not pink. Products labeled 'uncured' can be a great option, but they require a bit more scrutiny.
Look Beyond the Label:
- Read the Ingredients: Always check for celery powder, celery juice, or other vegetable powders used as curing agents. Some brands are more transparent than others. For example, the Jimmy Dean All Natural patties mention 'Tea Powder' and 'Natural Flavors' in some ingredient lists but still carry the 'no nitrates or nitrites added' claim, pointing to natural sources.
- Look for Fresh Sausage: Fresh, non-pre-cooked sausage generally does not contain curing agents. You will find these in rolls or links in the refrigerated meat section.
- Seek Minimal Processing: Brands that focus on minimal processing are more likely to have simple ingredients. Consider brands like Applegate Naturals or Boar's Head, which offer naturally or traditionally processed options.
Beyond Jimmy Dean: Other Nitrate-Free Options
For those committed to avoiding nitrates, several brands offer genuinely nitrate-free or transparently labeled alternatives. Boar's Head, for example, offers an 'All Natural' turkey sausage line and clearly states "No Nitrates or Nitrites Added Except For Those Naturally Occurring in Sea Salt". Other brands like Applegate Organics and McLean Meats specialize in meat products free of synthetic nitrites, and it is worth investigating their ingredients lists as well. Many brands have responded to consumer demand for cleaner labels, but the celery powder loophole remains widespread.
Conclusion: Making an Informed Choice about Your Breakfast
So, is Jimmy Dean turkey sausage nitrate free? The answer is nuanced. While many of their 'All Natural' products are free of added synthetic nitrates and nitrites, they are often cured using naturally occurring nitrates from sources like celery powder. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal health goals and how you interpret product labels. If your aim is to avoid all nitrites, regardless of source, you will need to scrutinize the ingredient list of even "no added" products. However, if you are simply trying to reduce exposure to synthetic preservatives, Jimmy Dean's 'All Natural' line offers a widely available option that aligns with that goal. For true transparency, look for brands that offer genuinely uncured sausage with no celery powder, or consider making your own from fresh ground turkey and seasonings.
Note: It's important to be aware of the high sodium content in many processed sausages, regardless of their nitrate content, as this is another significant health factor to consider.
