Sticky Post for Beginners and Inquiring Minds?

[Kevin A]

I can understand that. But its a natural compound so you can't really avoid it. I have heard a lot worse said about cure 1 and 2. Nitrates and nitrites are also natural compounds and cant be avoided. But if we did try..you'd have to quit curing meat. And if you eat store bought you'd still get it and in probably higher does. I have seen all three listed on labels.

oh I agree with you on the difficulty in avoiding all these naturally-occurring substances in our diet.  But for me (and pretty much any serious sausage-maker or smoked meat enthusiast) adding Cures is essential, whereas the use of phosphates is an option.

-Kevin

[viper125]

I can understand that. But its a natural compound so you can't really avoid it. I have heard a lot worse said about cure 1 and 2. Nitrates and nitrites are also natural compounds and cant be avoided. But if we did try..you'd have to quit curing meat. And if you eat store bought you'd still get it and in probably higher does. I have seen all three listed on labels.

oh I agree with you on the difficulty in avoiding all these naturally-occurring substances in our diet.  But for me (and pretty much any serious sausage-maker or smoked meat enthusiast) adding Cures is essential, whereas the use of phosphates is an option.

-Kevin

Very true. But it's in so many foods today and about all the process meat the amount I would use is irrelevant. But thats why we make our own. to cut back on things which we dont want in our meat. The only time I really worry is people who cut back on salt and cure. Some seem to think its ok but I feel that both are very much needed.