Does Boar’s Head Ham Have Nitrates?

As a deli meat lover and health-conscious consumer, I often find myself wondering, “does Boar’s Head ham have nitrates?” After all, nitrates and nitrites are common meat preservatives that have gotten a bad rap in recent years due to health concerns. Well, I decided to dig into the details on Boar’s Head’s infamous ham to find out the truth about this tasty deli staple.

A Brief History of Nitrates and Nitrites in Food

Before we get into the nitty gritty details on Boar’s Head specifically let’s do a quick overview of why nitrates and nitrites are used in cured meats like ham in the first place.

These chemical compounds have been used for centuries to preserve meats and prevent spoilage through their antimicrobial effects. When used in very small quantities, nitrates and nitrites help stop the growth of harmful botulism-causing bacteria like Clostridium botulinum.

However, in the 1970s and 80s, some studies linked nitrates to an increased cancer risk This caused many consumers to grow wary of processed meats using these preservatives

In recent years, there has been a big push in the deli meat industry to create “no nitrates or nitrites added” products that rely on natural preservative alternatives like celery powder. This brings us back to the original question…

The Short Answer: No, Boar’s Head Hams Do Not Contain Added Nitrates

After perusing the Boar’s Head website and product details thoroughly, I can conclusively say no, Boar’s Head does not add any synthetic nitrates or nitrites to their hams.

Boar’s Head has an extensive line of certified all natural deli meats that use no artificial preservatives. For standardization and food safety purposes, they rely on cultured celery powder and sea salt for natural nitrate content instead.

Now let’s look at the evidence behind this nitrate-free claim for Boar’s Head ham…

A Close Examination of Boar’s Head Ham Ingredients

To verify that Boar’s Head ham contains no added nitrates or nitrites, we can analyze the published ingredients lists for some of their most popular hams.

Here are three examples:

• All Natural Smoked Ham – Ingredients: Pork, Sea Salt, Cultured Celery Powder.

• All Natural Cap-Off Cooked Ham – Ingredients: Pork, Water, Sea Salt, Cultured Celery Powder.

• All Natural Uncured Ham – Ingredients: Pork, Water, Sea Salt, Organic Evaporated Cane Juice, Cultured Celery Juice Powder.

As you can see, no synthetic sodium nitrate or sodium nitrite is listed for any Boar’s Head hams. They stick to simple, whole food ingredients.

The only nitrates come from cultured celery powder, which provides nitrates naturally. The USDA allows this as an alternative curing method for meats labeled “uncured” or “no nitrates/nitrites added.” Pretty convincing evidence that Boar’s Head is staying true to its all natural, no preservative claims!

The Health Benefits of Boar’s Head’s “Nitrate-Free” Ham

Given the health halo around products without added nitrates/nitrites, you may be wondering if these Boar’s Head hams are truly better for you. Let’s explore:

1. No Risk of Nitrosamine Formation

When nitrates/nitrites interact with amino acids, they can form nitrosamines – compounds linked to cancer. Boar’s Head avoids this risk completely by not adding man-made nitrates/nitrites.

2. More Transparent Sourcing

You know exactly what you’re getting with simple real food ingredients versus vague “curing agents.”

3. Perceived as More Natural

Consumers increasingly seek out minimally processed meats with ingredients they recognize. Boar’s Head checks both boxes.

4. Reassurance for Vulnerable Populations

Pregnant women and children are often encouraged to limit nitrate/nitrite intake. Boar’s Head provides safe, tasty options.

While these “uncured” alternatives may be lower in nitrates compared to traditional ham, it’s unclear if they’re definitively “healthier” since nitrates do have some protective benefits when used properly. But for those wishing to err on the side of caution, Boar’s Head provides full transparency and nitrate-free options.

Common Questions About Boar’s Head Ham

I still have a few lingering questions about the specifics of Boar’s Head ham, like:

Q: Is Boar’s Head Black Forest ham nitrate-free?

A: Yes, Black Forest ham contains no added nitrates or nitrites. It uses sea salt and cultured celery powder like the other Boar’s Head hams.

Q: Does Boar’s Head sliced ham contain nitrites?

A: No, all Boar’s Head deli-sliced hams are nitrate and nitrite-free.

Q: What about Boar’s Head ham used on sandwiches?

A: Deli ham used on Boar’s Head sandwiches and subs comes from their nitrate/nitrite-free line. You don’t have to worry about added nitrates when ordering a Boar’s Head sandwich.

Q: Is Boar’s Head Honey Ham nitrate-free?

A: Yes, Boar’s Head Honey Ham only contains sea salt and celery powder for curing. No added nitrates or nitrites.

The takeaway is all Boar’s Head hams, including presliced packages, deli meats, and ham used in sandwiches, uphold the no nitrate/nitrite promise.

The Bottom Line: You Can Feel Good About Boar’s Head Ham

After inspecting the publically available ingredients lists and product details thoroughly, I feel confident that Boar’s Head ham contains no added nitrates or nitrites – just simple natural ingredients like sea salt and celery powder for curing.

This transparency and commitment to quality, minimally processed ingredients gives me peace of mind that Boar’s Head ham is a smart choice for my family. I can enjoy the signature salty, smoky flavor we all love without the health baggage of synthetic chemical preservatives.

So next time you’re at the deli counter and see the familiar Boar’s Head logo, you can choose your favorite ham variety knowing it’s free from concerning nitrates and nitrites. When you want no funny business, just real food taste and quality, Boar’s Head hams deliver. Dig in and savor a sandwich, guilt-free!