Is Wright Bacon Nitrate-Free? Examining the Facts

Bacon is a breakfast staple loved by many. However, concerns over nitrates in bacon have led some consumers to seek out nitrate-free options. This raises the question – is Wright bacon nitrate-free?

Wright is a popular brand known for its smoky, crispy bacon. But with ambiguous labeling like “natural” and “uncured”, it can be tricky to determine if their bacon contains potentially harmful nitrates.

In this article, we’ll examine whether Wright bacon is nitrate-free We’ll also explore nitrate concerns, alternative curing methods, and what to look for when choosing healthier bacon options

The Controversy Over Nitrates in Bacon

Traditionally, bacon is cured with sodium nitrite to prevent botulism, provide its characteristic pink color, and enhance flavor.

However, when nitrites interact with amino acids and are subjected to high heat, they can form nitrosamines. Studies suggest nitrosamines may be carcinogenic.

This has led to controversy over the risks versus benefits of nitrates in bacon. Some consumers now seek nitrate-free options, despite regulatory agencies still approving nitrite use.

Manufacturers have responded with alternative curing methods and labeling like “uncured” and “no nitrates or nitrites added.” However, these products may still contain nitrates from “natural” sources like celery powder.

Does Wright Bacon Contain Nitrates?

According to Wright’s website, their bacon contains sodium nitrite, a synthetic nitrate. So no, standard Wright bacon is not nitrate-free.

The ingredients list “salt, sugar, sodium phosphates, sodium erythorbate, sodium nitrite, smoke flavoring.” While “no nitrates added” isn’t claimed, some consumers may assume Wright is nitrate-free based on their use of terms like “smoked naturally” and “no artificial ingredients.”

This demonstrates the importance of carefully reading ingredients rather than relying on front-label marketing terms. Regular Wright bacon contains added synthetic nitrates.

Alternative Curing Methods

While Wright uses traditional sodium nitrite curing, some manufacturers have adopted alternative processes to reduce or eliminate nitrates:

• Celery Powder: Celery juice or powder naturally contains nitrate that converts to nitrite during curing. This allows a “no nitrates added” claim despite nitrites still being present.

• Starter Cultures: Bacterial cultures convert nitrate to nitrite from natural sources like celery. They also generate lactic acid for preservation.

• Vegetable Juices: Carrot, beet, or cherry juice contain some nitrates that participate in curing and flavor development.

• Uncured: Products labeled “uncured” use natural curing methods without direct addition of sodium nitrite or nitrate. However, naturally occurring nitrates may still be present.

While these alternative processes can reduce nitrosamine formation, conventional curing with sodium nitrite is still generally more effective at preventing microbial growth.

Identifying Nitrate-Free Bacon

When trying to find nitrate-free bacon, here are some tips:

• Check the ingredients list for “sodium nitrite” or “sodium nitrate.” Avoid products listing these.

• Look for clear “uncured” or “no nitrates or nitrites added” labeling. This indicates curing without direct addition of nitrites.

• Choose bacon cured with natural sources like celery powder or vegetable juices. But still check ingredients as nitrates may be present.

• Opt for high-quality bacon from local butchers or trusted brands that use minimal processing. These are more likely to be nitrate-free.

• Consider uncured, pastured bacon from small meat producers. Pastured pork and minimal processing reduces risks.

• Research companies’ curing methods if labels aren’t clear. Some use natural processes but don’t advertise it.

Checking both front labels and ingredients is key. Terms like “natural” don’t guarantee nitrate-free. But clear “uncured” labeling along with ingredients lacking sodium nitrite/nitrate are good signs.

Are There Nitrate-Free Options From Wright?

Wright recently introduced an “uncured” bacon line cured with celery juice powder instead of sodium nitrite.

The ingredients list for this nitrate-free bacon is: “pork, water, sea salt, celery juice powder, natural flavor, cherry powder, vinegar, celery extract, cherry juice concentrate, cultured celery extract.”

Wright’s website states their uncured bacon “starts with sea salt and is flavored and colored with vegetable and fruit juices.” By not adding sodium nitrite and using natural curing agents, this allows them to market it as nitrate-free.

• Regular Wright bacon contains added sodium nitrite and is not nitrate-free.

• Wright uncured bacon is nitrate-free, based on their use of celery juice powder and other natural curing ingredients instead of sodium nitrite.

For those seeking to avoid nitrates, Wright does offer a nitrate-free uncured bacon option. However, their traditional bacon does contain synthetically added nitrates.

Should You Consume Nitrate-Free Bacon?

While research on risks is inconclusive, some health-conscious consumers prefer to limit nitrate intake from processed meats. For these individuals, nitrate-free bacon may be a better choice.

However, nitrates and nitrites are considered safe at regulated levels by authoritative bodies like the USDA. For those less concerned with nitrate exposure, regular cured bacon remains an option.

Moderation is key, as with any food. The carcinogenic compounds form in greater amounts when bacon is charred or overcooked. Following cooking instructions and not burning bacon reduces nitrosamine production.

There are also steps to make traditionally cured bacon somewhat safer:

• Choose bacon with lower sodium nitrite levels

• Opt for bacon without sodium nitrate which is more readily converted to nitrosamines

• Look for bacon cured with antioxidants like vitamin C or cherry powder to inhibit nitrosamine formation

In the end, it comes down to personal risk tolerance and priorities. For maximum nitrate avoidance, uncured bacon is ideal. But regular cured bacon can be consumed in moderation as part of a healthy lifestyle.

The Bottom Line

Wright offers both traditionally cured bacon with sodium nitrite and newer uncured options without direct nitrate addition.

Reading labels carefully and evaluating ingredients is important, as terms like “natural” don’t guarantee nitrate-free. Wright uncured bacon with celery juice powder instead of sodium nitrite can provide nitrate-free benefits for concerned consumers.

However, the evidence on nitrate risks is not conclusive. Those less worried may continue to enjoy regular cured bacon in moderation. Making informed choices about your diet and lifestyle habits is key to overall well-being.