Is There Any Ham Without Nitrates? Exploring Healthier Alternatives

Is nitrate-free ham a real option? Yes, it is! Our selection of organic ham products is crafted using completely natural methods. Among these options, we offer nitrate and nitrite-free ham, which is made by dry curing it for a period of 14 days using organic demerara sugar and sea salt. This straightforward yet delicious process results in three distinct ham flavors within our range: unsmoked, smoked, and honey glazed. So, if you’re looking for a healthier and more natural ham option, our nitrate-free varieties provide a tasty choice.

The question of whether all hams are cured with nitrates is an important one. Uncured ham, while technically still a cured product, undergoes a more natural curing process compared to its nitrate-containing counterpart. This type of ham is free from added nitrates or nitrites and is typically preserved using natural alternatives like salt, celery powder, and/or beets. The duration of the curing process can vary significantly, spanning from several days to several weeks, contingent on factors such as temperature and humidity levels within the curing environment. This information was last updated on December 12th, 2022.

What exactly is nitrite-free ham? Nitrite-free ham refers to ham that is produced without the use of nitrites, which are commonly used additives in processed meats. When you cook nitrite-free ham, it tends to have a dull grey-brown color, resembling the cooked appearance of plain pork. However, it’s important to note that nitrites serve a crucial role in safeguarding our food against harmful bacteria, particularly those responsible for severe foodborne illnesses like botulism. Without nitrites, nitrite-free ham or bacon essentially becomes seasoned, salty pork. This information was last updated on April 9, 2020.