Nitrates and nitrites are chemical compounds found commonly in nature with potentially beneficial health effects. Through various reactions, nitrates/nitrites may sometimes convert to compounds called nitrosamines, which may have potentially harmful health effects. The possible safety concerns around added nitrates/nitrites in processed meat grew over decades, starting in the 1970s, when experts suggested that nitrites converting to nitrosamines might be linked to oral and gastric cancers. What can be confusing is that nitrates and nitrites have potential positive effects in the body. However, their by-products, nitrosamines, have been deemed probable carcinogens, meaning that with repeated, high-level exposure they may cause cells to turn cancerous.
Many products, particularly processed meats, have labels claiming "No Nitrates or Nitrites Added". Unsurprisingly, this may lead people to conclude that there are none in the product. But that would not be the case.
"Meats with this label weren't processed with synthetic nitrates or nitrites but instead with natural sources such as celery powder," says Charlotte Vallaeys, a senior food analyst with Consumer Reports. "The health effects are the same."
While the net health effects of these compounds are not yet settled science, consumers should not be mislead by labeling shenanigans.
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