Uncured Pepperoni No Nitrates Or Nitrites Added

Pepperoni made without added synthetic nitrates or nitrites. Instead, it uses natural sources like celery powder or juice, which contain naturally occurring nitrates that convert to nitrites during processing. This process helps preserve the meat and give it its characteristic color and flavor.

This ingredient is used to provide a savory, cured meat flavor and color in processed meats, especially pizza toppings and lunch meat products. Manufacturers use it as an alternative to conventionally cured pepperoni, appealing to consumers seeking products with fewer artificial ingredients.

In the US, ingredients like celery powder used for curing are generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA. While the body's intake of nitrates and nitrites from natural sources is generally considered safe, the FDA continues to monitor scientific research on these compounds. International bodies like EFSA have evaluated nitrates and nitrites, and JECFA has also evaluated them. Some studies have explored potential links between processed meats and health outcomes, but the evidence is complex and often debated.