Nitrite levels found in ham and bacon across UK retailers

A lab study finds nitrite levels in ham and bacon across major UK retailers, prompting health groups to call for action.

UK supermarkets sold ham and bacon with high nitrite levels

A study tested 21 processed meat products from major UK retailers and found nitrite preservatives in all of them. Wiltshire ham showed the highest level at 33 mg/kg, well above the other products tested, including cooked ham and unsmoked bacon. The results also showed Tesco’s Wiltshire ham far exceeded its own cheaper variants and highlighted high nitrite concentrations in other brands from M&S, Sainsbury’s and Morrisons.

The findings revive a long-running debate about how to balance food safety with cancer risk. Nitrites help prevent bacterial growth and keep meat looking appealing, but they are linked to cancer risk in some studies and were flagged by the WHO as carcinogenic decades ago. The presence of nitrites in all tested products means shoppers are not simply choosing between brands but between different levels of a common additive. The report notes some brands are already moving to nitrite-free options, signaling a potential shift in market expectations. Regulators may face pressure to tighten labeling or curb use, while retailers must weigh safety, shelf life, and consumer trust.

Highlights

The nitrite question is unlikely to fade as shoppers demand clarity and safety.