Nitrite-free bacon sales boom in UK amid fears over curing chemicals
Summary
Sales of bacon products made without nitrites are growing in the UK as consumers worry about chemicals used to preserve meat. Major retailers like Tesco and Waitrose are offering more nitrite-free bacon to meet this rising demand, even though food experts say there is no proof these products are healthier.Key Facts
- Nitrites are chemicals used to cure meat, helping to preserve it and keep it pink.
- Some consumers are worried nitrites could pose health risks, leading to higher sales of nitrite-free bacon.
- Tesco now sells two types of nitrite-free back bacon in 570 stores, starting from September 21.
- Waitrose has doubled its range of nitrite-free bacon and ham, with sales rising by over 34% in the past year.
- Data shows that nitrite-free bacon sales reached £34.8 million over one year, growing 11.4%, while conventional bacon sales dropped.
- The Food Standards Agency (FSA) says processed meat is linked to cancer risk, but there is no solid proof that nitrites alone cause this risk.
- Removing nitrites from meat can make it harder to keep the food safe, as these chemicals prevent harmful bacteria.
- Experts say vegetables also contain nitrates, which can become nitrites, but they come with other nutrients that reduce harm.
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