No nitrites added? Why some processed meats in Singapore contain them despite the claim
Bacon, ham and sausages may be marketed as “nitrite-free” or “no nitrite added”, but the labels can get complicated. Talking Point tests nine of these products and gets dietary advice.
Singapore's processed meats market may be deceptive. Labels claiming "nitrite-free" or "no nitrite added" may be misleading. A recent study found nitrites in two hams and one sausage among nine "clean label" products tested by CNA's Talking Point. These additives preserve meats, prevent bacterial growth, and give cured meat its pink color.
However, nitrites can form cancer-causing compounds when combined with meat's amino acids. The Singapore Food Agency requires manufacturers to declare added nitrates or nitrites but allows them to omit this if they weren't intentionally added.
Written by urgent.news from CNA - Singapore's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
