Does Turkey Sausage Have Nitrates?

Turkey sausage has become a go-to alternative for many trying to consume less red meat. With its promise of less fat and fewer calories, turkey sausage appears to be a healthier choice at first glance. However, questions still linger about what’s actually in turkey sausage, especially regarding the contentious food additive – nitrates. Let’s find out if turkey sausage contains nitrates, and explore some frequently asked questions around this topic.

What are Nitrates?

Nitrates are compounds made up of nitrogen and oxygen. They occur naturally in vegetables, air, soil and water. Nitrates are also commonly added to processed meats like hot dogs, deli meats and bacon to preserve color and prevent spoilage from bacteria. While nitrates themselves are relatively harmless, they can convert to nitrites and eventually form cancer-causing nitrosamines in the body. This is a concern particularly with processed meat containing added nitrates.

Do Nitrates Occur Naturally in Turkey?

No. Turkey does not naturally contain significant amounts of nitrates like some vegetables do. Turkey is simply the meat from the turkey bird. Any nitrates present in turkey meat or turkey sausages would be added during processing.

Does Turkey Sausage Contain Added Nitrates?

The short answer is – some do, but not all. Different brands and types of turkey sausage vary in their use of nitrates as an additive To prevent spoilage and give turkey sausages a pinkish hue, many processors add sodium nitrate or potassium nitrate to their products. However, you can also find nitrate-free options more commonly now Always check the ingredient list carefully.

Health Impact of Nitrates in Turkey Sausage

Consuming large amounts of nitrates from processed meats like turkey sausage may increase the risk of

• Cancer – especially colorectal, stomach, esophageal cancers
• Methemoglobinemia in infants
• Complications in pregnancy

However, the occasional turkey sausage in moderation is unlikely to cause issues in healthy adults. Those with specific health conditions may need to be more cautious.

Identifying Nitrate-Free Turkey Sausages

When buying turkey sausages, look at the ingredient list and nutrition facts panel for clues on nitrate content:

• Check if sodium/potassium nitrate is listed in the ingredients
• Look for the terms “uncured,” “no nitrates/nitrites added”
• Beware of “no nitrates, except for those naturally occurring in…” as this indicates vegetable nitrates were used
• Low or no nitrite content in the nutrition facts

Reputable brands clearly advertise if their turkey sausages are nitrate-free or not. When in doubt, contacting the manufacturer directly can provide clarification.

FAQs Around Nitrates in Turkey Sausages

Are nitrates absolutely necessary in turkey sausages?

No. While nitrates help with preserving and coloring, alternatives like celery powder do exist. Not all brands find nitrates essential.

Does cooking reduce nitrates in turkey sausages?

No. Neither grilling, frying nor other cooking methods reduce or remove nitrates from turkey sausages substantially.

Are turkey hot dogs and lunch meats also high in nitrates?

Yes, other processed turkey products like hot dogs and lunch deli meats tend to be high in nitrates for preservation.

Can nitrates lead to allergies or intolerances?

Some individuals may be sensitive to nitrates or preservatives used with nitrates. Allergic reactions are not common though.

Are fresh turkey sausages nitrate-free?

Not always. “Fresh” just indicates raw, uncooked sausage. Fresh turkey sausages may still contain added nitrates as an ingredient. Checking labels is important.

What are alternatives to nitrates in turkey sausage?

Some common alternatives used are celery juice powder, vinegar, lemon juice, lactic acid starter cultures and rosemary extract.

Is it unhealthy to eat any amount of nitrates?

Not really. Average adult exposure to nitrates from all dietary sources is generally within safe limits. But those with specific medical conditions may need to restrict nitrates.

Can nitrates in turkey sausage be harmful during pregnancy?

Very high nitrate intake may potentially cause complications like low birth weight or premature birth. But occasional turkey sausage in moderation is unlikely to be an issue.

The Bottom Line

While fresh turkey meat itself contains no nitrates, some turkey sausages and processed turkey products do contain added nitrates. Reading labels carefully and looking for “no nitrates added” options can help identify nitrate-free turkey sausages. Consuming large amounts of nitrates may have health risks, but eating turkey sausage in moderation is unlikely to be a major concern. Those with specific medical conditions may need to be more cautious about dietary nitrate sources. When in doubt, checking with your healthcare provider is advised, especially for pregnant women and infants.