Overview

• An independent analysis commissioned by the Coalition Against Nitrites detected nitrites in all 21 tested ham and bacon products, with Tesco’s Wiltshire ham showing the highest concentration at about 33 mg/kg.
• Measured nitrite levels in every sample remained well below the 150 mg/kg maximum allowed under UK and EU regulations.
• Experts including Prof Chris Elliott emphasize that even permissible nitrite levels contribute to carcinogenic nitrosamine formation and are linked to around 13% of Britain’s annual bowel cancer cases.
• Retailers such as Tesco, Marks & Spencer, Sainsbury’s, Morrisons and Asda say their curing practices meet food safety standards and rely on nitrites to inhibit harmful bacteria.
• Several producers, including Finnebrogue and Waitrose, now offer nitrite-free cured meats, and campaigners urge industry-wide adoption of alternative preservatives.