Tag: Natural ham

Despite what its name suggests, a product labeled "uncured" or "natural" ham is still preserved, just in a more natural way using vegetable extracts like celery juice powder instead of synthetic preservatives. The key difference lies not in whether the ham is cured, but in the source of the curing agents.

According to the USDA, what is labeled as "uncured" ham is actually cured using natural nitrates derived from sources like celery powder and sea salt. This essential distinction explains why products like Applegate and Pederson's Farms are sold as uncured, offering a different, often milder flavor profile than traditionally cured varieties.