Consumer concern about the health risks associated with nitrites, chemicals used to cure meats, is driving an increase in sales of nitrite-free bacon in the UK. Retailers are responding to this demand by offering more nitrite-free options.
Data from Worldpanel by Numerator indicates that nitrite-free bacon is growing steadily, while conventional bacon sales are declining. In the 52 weeks leading up to 6 September 2026, spending on nitrite-free bacon reached £34.8m, an 11.4% rise year-on-year, with volumes up 8.0% to 2.2m kg. In contrast, conventional bacon saw a 9.2% decrease in spend and a 4.9% drop in volume.
Waitrose has expanded its 'Made Without Nitrites' range, with sales increasing by more than 34% in the last year. Denhay, a bacon specialist, has also introduced two new nitrite-free back bacon lines, available in 570 Tesco stores from 21 September, both priced at £4 for 200g.
The Food Standards Agency (FSA) states that there is no definitive evidence that nitrites directly cause cancer, nor is there evidence that processed meats made without nitrate or nitrite additives are safer. The FSA notes that removing these chemicals can create food safety challenges as they help prevent the growth of dangerous bacteria.