What Is Uncured Meat?

The Real Difference Between Cured and Uncured Bacon, Ham and Canadian Bacon

Jones Dairy Farm boasts a diverse selection of breakfast meats that are naturally smoked, including bacon, ham and Canadian bacon. While most of these offerings are traditionally cured, Jones also offers a selection of uncured breakfast meats. But what is uncured meat? While it has become commonplace to see products labeled as “uncured” in grocery stores today, the term uncured remains a mystery to many consumers. So, what does uncured meat mean? Simply put, it boils down to how meat is preserved.

What Is Curing?

Curing is the process of preserving meat. During this process, nitrates and nitrites (natural compounds made of nitrogen and oxygen) are added to the meat to prevent spoilage. Curing also adds flavor, color, and texture to the meat. Before refrigeration, curing —through salting and drying — was one of the primary methods of food preservation.

What Is the Difference Between Cured and Uncured Meat?

So, what is uncured meat versus cured meat? Meats labeled as cured use chemical, man-made preservatives like sodium nitrite, while meats labeled as “uncured” rely on natural preservatives, such as celery powder and sea salt. The cured vs. uncured meat terminology is dictated by United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) labeling regulations.

Is Uncured Meat Still Cured?

Yes, uncured meat — such as bacon, ham, and Canadian bacon — is still preserved, just in a more natural way. Products labeled as “uncured,” such as Jones Dairy Farm’s Uncured Canadian Bacon, use fruits and vegetables like celery, which transform into nitrite when processed.

Since nitrite isn’t added as an independent ingredient, these products are considered “uncured” by law and labeled as “No Nitrates or Nitrites Added.” However, it’s important to note that these products still contain naturally occurring nitrates and nitrites. The molecules simply come from sources like celery powder rather than synthetic sodium nitrite or other manufactured preservatives.

Is Uncured Meat Healthier?

Is uncured meat better for you? The question of whether uncured meat is healthier is widely debated. As discussed, products labeled as “uncured” still contain nitrite. Nitrates and nitrites are important for preventing foodborne illnesses and also give bacon, ham, and other smoked meats their distinctive color and taste. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference and how you prefer your smoked meats to be preserved.

Jones Dairy Farm’s Selection of Uncured Meats

Looking to try uncured meat for yourself? Jones Dairy Farm offers a variety of uncured, all natural, and preservative-free options, including:

• Uncured No Sugar Hickory Smoked Bacon – Extra Thick Slices
• Uncured No Sugar Ham
• No Antibiotics Ever Uncured Canadian Bacon
• Uncured Turkey Bacon

Use our Product Finder to locate the grocery store nearest you that carries Jones Dairy Farm’s uncured meats.

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