There’s been a noticeable shift in the way consumers shop for meat. More consumers are paying attention to ingredient labels, processing methods, and where their food is actually coming from.

MD Anderson Cancer Center notes that processed meats are frequently linked to increased colorectal cancer risk over time. However, many people still include these foods in their diet.

So what makes cured meats so bad for you? Why are uncured meats often considered healthier? Let’s break down the confusion so you can make informed decisions about the meat you choose. 

What is Cured Meat? 

Cured meat is typically processed and preserved using chemicals and additives to preserve their meat from spoiling. 

Processed meats are widely used because they’re easy to prepare, budget-friendly, and in most people's everyday habits. From bacon at breakfast, to deli slices in lunch sandwiches, to hot dogs at summer cookouts, these foods are a familiar part of many people’s diets.

Why Curing Is Used

The curing process serves a few main purposes:

• Extends shelf life and slows spoilage

• Enhances flavor and color

• Improves food safety during storage

According to the World Health Organization, processed meats are defined as meats that use specific chemicals such as heme, nitrates and nitrites, heterocyclic amine and other substances. 

What is Uncured Meat? 

Uncured meat is still preserved, but without synthetic nitrates or nitrites. Instead, it typically uses naturally derived ingredients like celery powder or other plant-based sources to help with preservation.

It sounds simpler on the label, and that’s part of why it’s become a go-to choice for consumers. Uncured doesn’t mean untouched. It just means a different method of preservation is being used. And this is why this topic is so confusing… 

Uncured DOES NOT mean nitrate or nitrite-free. These plant-based curing agents produce nitrates or nitrites during the cooking process. Nitrates and nitrites are what most consumers are trying to avoid when buying Uncured products. These preservatives are not only controversial at best from a long-term health impact perspective, they’re also difficult to digest causing added stress and strain on your digestive system and, subsequently, potentially lower nutrient extraction.

Here at Northstar, our uncured products are TRULY uncured containing no nitrates or nitrites. Because our products are minimally processed, they lack that common cured color luster, have different flavor profiles, and are not shelf stable. 

But with Northstar Bison’s uncured products, your meat is: 

• Easier to digest

• Contains greater nutrient value

• Avoids added nitrites and nitrates

What to Look for When Buying Meat

Want to look further than “cured” or “uncured” labels, consider asking questions such as:

1. How can I avoid nitrates and nitrates? 

• Avoid any product containing nitrates, nitrites, MSG, celery juice, or celery powder in the ingredient list.

2. Where was the animal raised?

• Look for labels that mention pasture-raised or 100% grass-fed.
  
  

3. How processed is the product?

• Shorter ingredient lists often means less processed.
  
  

4. Are there fillers or additives?

• Check the ingredient list for added sugars, corn syrups, preservatives, or artificial flavoring.
  
  

5. Does it fit your dietary needs?

• Consumers managing food sensitivities or following low histamine lifestyles may benefit from less processed proteins.

Grass Fed Protein Choices

For those looking to reduce highly processed meats in their diets, whole-food protein sources can be a great alternative.

Options may include:

• Grass-fed beef cuts

• Bison steak or ground bison

• Elk Rocky Mountain Elk

• Bone broth made from grass-fed animals

Frequently Asked Questions 

Do uncured meats still contain nitrates?

Yes. Many uncured meats still contain naturally occurring nitrates and nitrites.

Should I remove processed meats from my Diet?

At the end of the day, choosing between cured and uncured meats often comes down to personal preference. There isn’t a single “right” answer here, it really depends on what matters most to you. 

Are processed meats unhealthy?

No. Not all processed meats are unhealthy, in fact, many processed meats are healthy. It’s just important to note some contain heavily processed products with additives, fillers, and excess sodium, which can lead to certain health concerns when consumed frequently over time. Reading labels and being aware of what you’re choosing to consume is the key here.

What are healthier alternatives to processed meats?

Whole proteins like grassfed bison meat, ground elk, pasture raised chicken, and grassfed bone broth are popular minimally processed options for clean eating lifestyles.