Leading scientists join forces with cross-party political grouping and third-sector leaders in new Coalition Against Nitrites

19 May 2025

SAFE has joined the Coalition Against Nitrites, a newly launched UK-based non-profit organisation calling for nitrites to be banned from processed meats. In 2015, the World Health Organization classified processed meats as a Group One carcinogen, placing them in the same category as tobacco. It attributed 34,000 cancer deaths globally each year to diets high in processed meats.

Nitrites are commonly added to processed meats such as bacon, ham, and certain sausages to preserve them, enhance their flavour, and give them a pink colour. These additives can be either synthetic or derived from natural sources like celery powder.

However, during the curing process, nitrites can react with other compounds in the meat to form nitrosamines – substances that have been linked by years of scientific research to an increased risk of stomach and bowel cancer.

Some product labels say ‘uncured’ or ‘no added nitrites,’ but they often use natural ingredients that still contain nitrites. This can mislead consumers, as the health risks are still present.

The Coalition is urging for nitrites to be removed from products like bacon and ham to make them safer. Countries such as France and Italy have already taken action, proving that it is possible to produce high-quality cured meats without these additives.

Reducing the exposure to known dietary carcinogens is a crucial step in cancer prevention, and it can be taken without compromising on taste or choice.