Walk down the jerky aisle of any grocery store and you'll see "No Nitrates Added" on some packages and not on others. Here's what sodium nitrate actually is, why many brands still use it, and why Simply Beef Jerky is made without it.
What Are Nitrates and Nitrites?
Sodium nitrate and sodium nitrite are chemical compounds used as preservatives in cured and processed meats. They prevent bacterial growth particularly Clostridium botulinum, which causes botulism extend shelf life, and give cured meats their characteristic pink color and flavor.
They've been used in food preservation for over a century, and they're effective. The question isn't whether they work. The question is whether you want them in your food when they're not necessary.
Why Some People Avoid Them
Research has associated high intake of processed meats containing nitrates and nitrites with an increased risk of certain health issues. When given the choice, many health-conscious consumers prefer to minimize added nitrates in their diet where possible.
It's worth noting that vegetables like celery, spinach, and beets are also naturally high in nitrates so the picture is nuanced. "No nitrates added" on a label means no added sodium nitrate or sodium nitrite, not that the product is nitrate-free from all sources. But we believe in giving you the cleanest product possible, and that means leaving out what doesn't need to be there.
How We Keep It Fresh Without Them
Simply Beef Jerky contains no added sodium nitrate or sodium nitrite. We achieve shelf stability the old-fashioned way:
- Controlled water activity slow drying removes moisture to a level where bacteria cannot thrive. This is the same principle that has preserved meat for thousands of years before refrigeration.
- Salt sodium chloride is a natural preservative that has been used for centuries. It's already in the marinade for flavor; it also does preservation work.
- USDA-controlled production our inspected facility (EST.40117) ensures every batch is processed consistently and safely, with federal oversight at every step.
Reading the Label
When you flip over a bag of Simply Beef Jerky, you'll see a short ingredient list with things you recognize beef, soy sauce, spices, brown sugar depending on the flavor. You won't see sodium nitrate. You won't see sodium nitrite. You won't see a long string of preservatives.
That's a deliberate choice, not a marketing angle. We made it from the beginning because we believe snacks should be made from ingredients you can trust.
The Bottom Line
No added nitrates means one less thing you're introducing into your body with every bag. Simple as that. Check the label on any Simply Beef Jerky flavor and you'll see exactly what's in it.
