What is the deal with nitrates?

Today I want to talk about Nitrates!  What are nitrates?  Nitrates are a natural substance found in the environment and produced by living organisms.  They are added to many foods as an additive to preserve and maintain color.  Nitrates are found in most preserved meats:  Hot dogs, bacon, sausages, and lunch meat,  and yes that means in the pepperoni on your pizza.  Are nitrates safe?  Nitrates themselves are not the problem.  It is what happens when they are heated at high temperatures.  They form nitrosamines which are carcinogenic (cancer causing).  Researchers have found a connection to nitrosamines and pancreatic cancer. 
     Well, what does this mean?  Do we have to stop enjoying winnie roasts, bacon with our eggs, or look for an alternative for our sandwich for lunch?  Not necessarily.  Researchers have found that consuming a product high in vitamin C with a product containing nitrates will prevent the formation of the dangerous nitrosamines.  Better yet looking for products without these additives would be the best.  Many companies are offering products without nitrates.  Here are two that are fairly inexpensive and found in most grocery stores:

Hormel Natural Choice
These deli meats contain no preservatives.  They are made with a  USDA-approved, all-natural process that doesn’t require preservatives. Instead, intense cold water pressure protects food against bacteria, while maintaining freshness and enhancing flavor.  They are sold in a number of varieties:  Roast Beef
                                      Honey Ham
                                      Oven Roasted turkey
                                      Salami
                                      There are several more varieties.

Oscar Mayer Select Premium Hot dogs

I was very excited to find these one day at the store!  Hot dogs with no nitrates!!! They also come in all beef!
I want to state to everyone that I am not promoting hot dogs as a healthy food,  nitrates or no nitrates.  They are still high in fat but we all know that once in a while we are going to eat one at ball games and barbecues!

I do not know of any bacon without Nitrates except what is in health food stores.  I would limit bacon to once in  a blue moon but if you do eat it don't forget the orange juice!!!

We just need to be aware of what we are eating and try to make the best choices for our family!!
Just a reminder to those out there who have small children, hot dogs are a major choking hazard for toddlers!