Does Jimmy Dean Sausage Contain Nitrates? Examining the Health Impact

Jimmy Dean is one of the most iconic sausage brands in America. Its founder, Jimmy Dean, built a sausage empire starting in the 1960s. While delicious Jimmy Dean sausage has long faced criticism for its high sodium and saturated fat content. In recent years attention has turned to the presence of preservatives like nitrates in processed meats like Jimmy Dean. But does Jimmy Dean sausage actually contain nitrates? Let’s take a closer look.

The Health Risks of Nitrates

Nitrates are preservatives used to cure meats and prevent bacterial growth. They help give cured meats like ham and hot dogs their characteristic pink color. While nitrates themselves are relatively harmless, they can be converted into carcinogenic nitrosamines in the body.

Studies have linked nitrate consumption to an increased risk of certain cancers Processed meats preserved with nitrates have been classified as “probably carcinogenic to humans” by the World Health Organization The WHO recommends limiting intake of processed meats to reduce cancer risk,

Other potential health risks of nitrates include:

• Interference with blood vessel dilation, which may increase risk of heart disease
• Methemoglobinemia (“blue baby syndrome” in infants)
• Headache, dizziness, and other symptoms in sensitive individuals

So while nitrates themselves aren’t too concerning in moderation, their health risks have led health experts to recommend limiting intake, especially for vulnerable populations like children and pregnant women.

Does Jimmy Dean Contain Nitrates?

Jimmy Dean has long faced scrutiny over its ingredients and nutritional value. Back in 2010 when founder Jimmy Dean passed away, news articles called out the brand’s high sodium and saturated fat.

But what about nitrates specifically?

According to Jimmy Dean’s website, their smoked sausage products are “minimally processed” and contain no added nitrates or nitrites. They use natural curing methods like celery juice powder to preserve their sausages.

Jimmy Dean also confirmed this lack of added nitrates/nitrites on Twitter back in 2013, tweeting “None of our products contain added nitrates or nitrites.”

So while Jimmy Dean products are high in sodium and saturated fat, it appears they do not contain added nitrates or nitrites like many other processed meat products. The natural curing methods Jimmy Dean uses result in traces of nitrates, but nowhere near the levels found in traditionally cured meats.

Healthier Alternatives to Processed Meats

While it’s good to know Jimmy Dean is free of added nitrates, their sausages are still high in sodium and saturated fat. Here are some healthier alternatives:

• Turkey or chicken sausage – White meat options are lower in saturated fat than pork and beef sausages. Look for low sodium varieties.

• Vegetarian sausage – Soy-based “fake meat” sausages mimic the flavor and texture of meat without the saturated fat and sodium.

• Smoked salmon or trout – Get the smoky flavor without the cured meat. Cold-smoked salmon is rich in healthy omega-3s.

• Beans – Black beans, chickpeas, and lentils pack protein, fiber, and nutrients without the drawbacks of processed meats.

• Nuts and seeds – Peanuts, almonds, pumpkin seeds etc. make great high protein, plant-based snacks.

• Lean deli meats – Roast beef, ham off the bone, and turkey breast offer protein in convenient sandwich slices. Opt for low-sodium when possible.

The Bottom Line

Jimmy Dean built an empire on convenient, tasty (albeit unhealthy) sausages. While their products are high in sodium and saturated fat, it seems they do not contain added nitrates/nitrites like many competitors. This is likely due to the natural curing methods Jimmy Dean uses. However, even without nitrate additives, processed meats should be eaten sparingly as part of a healthy diet. Fortunately, there are many tasty alternatives for those looking to reduce their intake of products like Jimmy Dean sausage.