The Best Nitrate-Free Bacon Brands for a Healthier Breakfast

Grab the eggs and heat up the skillet – it’s time for a hearty breakfast! But before you dive into that package of bacon, it’s worth considering if you really want all those chemical nitrates and nitrites in your morning meal. The good news is, more and more bacon brands now offer nitrate-free options that are just as tasty as the regular stuff.

In this article we’ll explore the benefits of nitrate-free bacon, review the top nitrate-free bacon brands on the market and give tips for cooking up the perfect nitrate-free breakfast. Let’s get sizzling!

Why Choose Nitrate-Free Bacon?

For decades most bacon producers have used sodium nitrate and nitrite to preserve and add color to processed meats like bacon and deli meats. However, research shows that frequently eating meats treated with these chemical additives may be linked to health risks like cancer and heart disease.

When nitrates and nitrites interact with amino acids in protein they can form compounds called nitrosamines that are known carcinogens. Studies have found connections between processed meat intake and increased colorectal cancer risk.

Thankfully, several health-conscious bacon brands now offer products preserved with natural ingredients instead of artificial nitrates/nitrites. These alternatives deliver the classic bacon taste and texture without the potentially harmful additives.

Choosing nitrate-free bacon is an easy way to reduce your exposure to these chemical preservatives and their associated health risks. It’s better for your body and still satisfies that salty, smoky bacon craving.

The Top 5 Nitrate-Free Bacon Brands

Wondering where to find high-quality nitrate-free bacon? We scoured the supermarket aisles and online stores to track down the top nitrite- and nitrate-free bacon options from respected brands. Here are our top 5 picks:

1. Applegate Naturals Sunday Bacon

This widely available nitrate-free bacon by Applegate Naturals is a top choice for high quality and great taste. They use celery powder and sea salt to naturally preserve their Sunday Bacon. With no artificial preservatives, it’s non-GMO, gluten-free, soy-free, and made from humanely raised pigs.

2. Pederson’s Natural Farms Uncured Bacon

Pederson’s bacon contains no nitrates/nitrites added beyond those naturally occurring in celery juice powder and sea salt. Their thick-cut hickory smoked bacon has the rich flavor you expect, plus it’s free of hormones, antibiotics, and preservatives.

3. Ozery Bakery Morning Round Zero Nitrate Bacon

For a crispy turkey bacon option, try Ozery Bakery’s Morning Rounds. They’re nitrate-free and made from whole turkey breast meat with no artificial preservatives. Each slice has 40% less fat than pork bacon too.

4. Wellshire Farms Sugar Free Uncured Bacon

With no added sugar and minimal processing, Wellshire Farms’ nitrate-free bacon is a great option. It’s cured using celery juice instead of sodium nitrite. No antibiotics or growth hormones either.

5. Early’s Honey Stand 5lb Nitrate-Free Bacon

Get bulk nitrate-free bacon from Early’s Honey Stand. Their thick sliced dry-cured bacon stays fresh in the vacuum-sealed 5 lb pack. It’s made from premium pork raised without hormones or antibiotics as well.

Tips for Cooking Nitrate-Free Bacon

Nitrate-free bacon tends to cook a little differently than traditional bacon because it lacks those preservatives. Here are some tips to get perfect results:

• Use Medium Heat – Cook nitrate-free bacon at medium temperature to avoid it burning. Keep a close eye on it.

• Blot with Paper Towels – Gently blot cooked bacon with paper towels to soak up excess grease for crisper results.

• Cook it All – Don’t leave raw nitrate-free bacon strips out too long, cook the whole package within a week.

• Store Properly – Keep unused bacon sealed and refrigerated. Use opened packs within 5 days.

• Cut Per Meal – Only cut as many strips as needed per meal. Limit air exposure to prevent spoilage.

• Freeze for Later – For longer storage, divide bacon into meal portions and freeze in airtight bags.

With a little care taken during cooking and storage, you can enjoy all the smoky, savory bacon flavor you love without the concerning nitrate chemicals. Try brands like Applegate, Pederson’s, Ozery, Wellshire, or Early’s Honey Stand to make breakfast healthier and safer for your family. Ditch those nasty nitrates and dive into some tasty nitrate-free bacon today!