And Cultured Celery Powder

Cultured celery powder is made by fermenting celery with beneficial bacteria, similar to how yogurt or sauerkraut is made. This fermentation process changes the celery's natural compounds, creating a powder that can act as a preservative in processed meats.

Manufacturers add cultured celery powder to processed meats like sausages and hot dogs as a natural alternative to synthetic preservatives. It helps to cure the meat and maintain its color and flavor, while also inhibiting the growth of harmful bacteria.

In the U.S., cultured celery powder is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA when used as intended. It is a source of naturally occurring nitrates, which the body converts to nitric oxide, a compound that can help regulate blood pressure. International bodies like EFSA have evaluated nitrites and nitrates, and JECFA has also evaluated celery powder. Evidence does not suggest adverse health effects at typical dietary intake levels.