Why Mason’s Meats Doesn’t Use Nitrates

Author

MICHAEL MASON

Published

February 05, 2025

Why Mason’s Meats Doesn’t Use Nitrates

Most jerky brands use nitrates and nitrites—chemical preservatives that keep meat looking fresh and shelf-stable for months. But there’s a hidden danger—these compounds can convert into nitrosamines, which have been linked to gut disruption, metabolic issues, and long-term health risks (1).

At Mason’s Meats, we believe in real food made the right way—just grass-fed beef and salt. Our jerky is air-dried using traditional methods, preserving the meat naturally without synthetic additives or harmful chemicals.

The Hidden Danger of Nitrates in Meat

Nitrates and nitrites are commonly found in processed meats like bacon, hot dogs, and jerky. When exposed to heat or stomach acid, they can form nitrosamines, compounds that research suggests may be harmful to long-term health (2).

A randomized controlled trial (RCT) found that reducing processed meats containing nitrates improved gut health markers and reduced inflammation (3). Another study highlighted how high-heat cooking of nitrate-containing meats increased nitrosamine levels, disrupting microbiome balance (4).

Why We Chose Purity Over Additives

Some brands rely on nitrates for preservation and color retention, but we refuse to compromise on quality. We only use:
100% grass-fed beef
Mineral-rich salt
Air-drying techniques for natural preservation

No hidden preservatives. No synthetic nitrates. No unnecessary chemicals. Just clean, high-quality beef, the way nature intended.

Eat Smarter. Choose Real Food.

If you care about what goes into your body, you shouldn’t settle for chemical-laden jerky. Mason’s Meats delivers pure, natural protein—without the risks, additives, or hidden junk found in mainstream brands.

Try Mason’s Meats today. Taste the difference. Feel the difference.

Beef Sirloin

Beef Sirloin

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£19.99

Beef Brisket

Beef Brisket

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£15.99

Beef Rib Cap

Beef Rib Cap

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Cited Studies

(1) Sindelar, J. J., & Milkowski, A. L. (2012). Human safety controversies surrounding nitrate and nitrite in the diet. Nitric Oxide, 26(4), 224–231. DOI:10.1016/j.niox.2012.03.011
(2) Cross, A. J., & Sinha, R. (2004). Meat-related mutagens/carcinogens in the etiology of colorectal cancer. Environmental and Molecular Mutagenesis, 44(1), 44–55. DOI:10.1002/em.20030
(3) Fiolet, T., Srour, B., Sellem, L., Kesse-Guyot, E., Alles, B., Mejean, C., ... & Touvier, M. (2018). Consumption of ultra-processed foods and cancer risk: results from the NutriNet-Santé prospective cohort. BMJ, 360, k322.DOI:10.1136/bmj.k322
(4) Bastide, N. M., Pierre, F. H., & Corpet, D. E. (2011). Heme iron from meat and risk of colorectal cancer: a meta-analysis and a review of the mechanisms involved. Cancer Prevention Research, 4(2), 177–184. DOI:10.1158/1940-6207.CAPR-10-0113

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