Uncured beef franks are a type of hot dog or sausage that does not contain chemical preservatives called nitrates and nitrites Understanding the difference between cured and uncured meat products like beef franks can help you make informed choices about the foods you eat.
What are Cured Meats?
Cured meats are preserved and flavored using a curing process that involves the addition of nitrates or nitrites. These chemical preservatives prevent bacterial growth and spoilage, extend shelf life, and give cured meats their characteristic pink color.
Common cured meat products include
- Bacon
- Ham
- Hot dogs
- Sausages
- Deli meats
- Jerky
Sodium nitrate and sodium nitrite are the most commonly used curing agents. They inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria like Clostridium botulinum, which causes botulism. The USDA regulates the use of these preservatives.
While nitrates and nitrites preserve meat and prevent botulism, some research suggests they may be linked to health risks like cancer when consumed in high amounts. This has led to a growing demand for uncured meat products.
What are Uncured Meats?
Uncured meats are preserved without the use of artificial nitrates or nitrites. Instead, they are made using natural nitrate alternatives that come from vegetable or fruit-based sources like celery or cherry powder.
Uncured meat products will be labeled as:
- Uncured
- No nitrates or nitrites added
- Nitrate free
Keep in mind that uncured meats are not completely nitrate-free, as vegetables naturally contain nitrates. The amounts are just much lower compared to artificial sodium nitrate.
Some examples of uncured meat products include:
- Uncured hot dogs
- Uncured bacon
- Uncured sausage
- Uncured deli meat
Are Uncured Meats Healthier?
The main health benefit of uncured meats is the lack of artificial nitrates/nitrites. Research has linked these to an increased risk of cancer and other health issues when consumed frequently in high amounts.
However, uncured meats still contain naturally-occurring nitrates from vegetable powders used during processing. The amounts are generally much lower compared to artificial sodium nitrite.
According to the USDA, sodium content is lower in uncured meat products compared to cured. But overall, uncured and cured meats have a similar nutrient profile in terms of fat, carbs, and protein.
So in terms of nutrition, there is no major difference between cured and uncured. The main advantage of uncured meats is the lack of chemical preservatives.
What Does Uncured Beef Franks Mean?
Uncured beef franks are a type of hot dog or sausage made from beef that does not contain artificial nitrates or nitrites. Here’s what you need to know:
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Preserved using natural nitrates from vegetable sources like celery juice/powder instead of artificial sodium nitrite.
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Will be labeled as “uncured,” “no nitrates or nitrites added,” or “nitrate free.”
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Have a similar nutrition profile to regular cured beef hot dogs but without chemical preservatives.
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Still contain naturally-occurring nitrates, but in lower amounts than cured options.
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Considered a healthier alternative but should still be eaten in moderation due to high sodium and fat content.
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Require refrigeration and safe handling as they spoil more quickly than cured meats.
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When shopping, check ingredients list to verify no artificial preservatives are used.
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Can be prepared and cooked same as any other beef hot dog recipe (grilling, boiling, etc).
Frequently Asked Questions about Uncured Meats
Are uncured meats really nitrate-free?
No. Uncured meats still contain nitrates from vegetable sources like celery powder. But the amounts are much lower compared to artificial sodium nitrite used in cured meats.
Do uncured meats taste different?
Most people can’t taste the difference between cured and uncured meats. Exceptions could include some dry-cured products like prosciutto, where omitting nitrates/nitrites can change flavor.
Are uncured hot dogs safe to eat?
Yes, uncured hot dogs are safe but should always be cooked thoroughly to an internal temperature of 165°F. Follow safe handling and storage guidelines.
Can you eat uncured meat when pregnant?
It should be safe for pregnant women to eat uncured meats occasionally as part of a balanced diet. Always cook hot dogs and deli meats thoroughly. Avoid cross-contamination when preparing.
Do uncured meats have a shorter shelf life?
Yes. Without chemical preservatives, uncured meats have a shorter shelf life and require refrigeration. Store in the fridge for no more than 1-2 weeks and freeze for 1-2 months for best quality.
Are uncured meats cheaper?
Not usually. Uncured meat products tend to cost a bit more than cured counterparts. The natural curing process takes more time and labor.
Should children eat uncured hot dogs?
Yes, uncured hot dogs are safe for kids but should always be cut up into small pieces to prevent choking hazards. Follow safe cooking and handling practices.
The Bottom Line
Choosing uncured beef franks and other uncured meats allows you to avoid chemical preservatives and reduce your nitrate intake. While not completely nitrate-free, uncured options contain far less than cured meats. Overall nutrition content is similar, but shelf life is shorter once opened.Cooking and handling uncured meats properly ensures safety. When shopping, check labels for confirmation that no artificial preservatives are used. While a bit more expensive, uncured meats provide an easy way to cut down on chemical additives and preservatives in your diet.
What’s uncured meat?
“Uncured” simply means that the meat was not preserved using any unnatural or synthetic forms of nitrates or nitrites. This helps to keep the meat just that – simpler. Uncured meats are still preserved but rely on natural salts and flavorings, not by adding synthetic chemicals. Why add chemicals if it’s not necessary? Using the natural options available just makes more sense in our opinion, and fans of our uncured bacon and uncured ham certainly agree.
What are cured hot dogs?
Most of the hot dogs you eat at backyard barbecues and baseball games are cured, according to Herald-Standard. These are the most common types of hot dogs. Cured wieners contain artificial preservatives called nitrates and nitrites that help prevent the meat from going bad. Preservatives enhance the flavor and color of the dog, too. Sounds okay, right? Its not.
Researchers Małgorzata Karwowska and Anna Kononiuk in their paper “Nitrates/Nitrites in Food—Risk for Nitrosative Stress and Benefits” (via National Library of Medicine) states that nitrates and nitrites are linked to toxicity, thyroid problems, and cancer. According to Mayo Clinic, these preservatives may also put you at risk for heart disease.
Cured hot dogs are fully cooked and ready to be warmed. Thats why they can be tossed onto the grill in a snap or zapped in the microwave for just a few seconds. The USDA states that you may store your franks for up to two weeks in the fridge if they dont have a “best by” date. Do not freeze hot dogs for more than two months, and store opened packages of hot dogs for up to one week in the fridge. Hot dogs can be left safely at room temperature for up to two hours.