Tag: Dop products

While many cured meats are known for their high nitrate content, authentic Italian prosciutto, specifically those with a Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) like Prosciutto di Parma, is traditionally produced without added nitrates. However, cheaper or non-traditional versions of prosciutto can and often do contain preservatives like nitrates. This crucial distinction is the key to understanding the full picture of nitrate levels in this popular Italian delicacy.

According to U.S. FDA regulations, fresh cheeses like mozzarella must be made from pasteurized milk or aged for at least 60 days to be legally imported and sold. This means that the vast majority of fresh imported mozzarella you find in supermarkets is indeed pasteurized.