Simple substitutions, like choosing uncured hot dogs over cured hot dogs, can reduce the amount of artificial preservatives you consume when it comes to healthy food choices. Which is fantastic news for anyone who enjoys a dog and a side of beans every now and then.
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.
What are uncured hot dogs?
Uncured hot dogs dont contain artificial nitrates and nitrites. Instead, the nitrates found naturally in celery juice or powder are used to preserve the meat. According to McGill University, the natural nitrates in celery juice are highly concentrated. The juice can be used to preserve the “no nitrates or nitrites added” processed hot dogs you love by being treated with a bacterial culture that produces nitrites. According to Dr. If that is a concern for you, Eric Berg, DC, says that the non-synthetic component of celery-created nitrites is “probably better,” but celery juice used to “cure” hot dogs is typically not organic. Pesticides and other chemicals are typically sprayed on celery, and the juice itself might not be any healthier than the synthetic nitrates used to cure hot dogs. When asked which dog hed choose, Dr. Berg said hed still go with the uncured hot dog.
Uncured hot dogs are fully cooked like cured hot dogs and can be quickly grilled, microwaved, or cooked on the stove or in the oven. Remember to always keep uncured hot dogs refrigerated and store them in the refrigerator according to the USDAs recommendations.
The choice is yours when it comes to choosing the menu for your gathering. Keep yourself informed and select the hot dog variety you believe is best for your family.
What is the difference between cured and uncured?
FAQ
Is uncured meat good for you?
There is probably little health benefit to eating uncured meats instead of cured meats because people who consume them are still exposed to nitrates and nitrites.
Can you eat uncured beef?
Raw beef is one of the foods that is most likely to contain bacteria that can cause illness. As a result, medical professionals advise against eating raw beef and other meats.
Does uncured beef need to be cooked?
Unless otherwise stated, the majority of uncured meat is fully cooked when it reaches the consumer. The ham only needs to be placed in the oven, warmed to the appropriate temperature, served, and then enjoyed!
What is uncured beef hot dogs?
When your favorite hot dog or salami is labeled “uncured” on store-bought food, it means that no sodium nitrite or other artificial salt has been added.