If you’ve ever unwrapped a pack of our organic nitrate-free ham and paused at its pale, almost grey colour — you’re not alone. We often get asked why our ham doesn’t have that familiar pink hue most of us have come to expect. The answer is simple, and actually something to celebrate: our ham is nitrate-free, and that’s a very good thing.
What Are Nitrates — and Why Does It Matter?
In most conventional hams, nitrates or nitrites are added during the curing process. These chemical compounds act as preservatives, giving ham its signature pink colour while extending shelf life.
But here’s the thing: while they may make meat look more appealing, there’s growing concern around the health implications of nitrates — especially when consumed regularly. Some studies have linked processed meats containing nitrates to an increased risk of certain health issues. That’s why, at Eversfield Organic, we’ve taken a different path.
Why Nitrate-Free Ham Looks Pale
Without nitrates, the meat simply doesn’t undergo the same chemical reaction that turns it bright pink. Instead, our nitrate-free ham has a more natural appearance — pale, soft grey or beige tones, with a hint of rose here and there. It’s not as vibrant, but it is more honest. It’s a sign that what you’re eating is untouched by artificial preservatives and cured in a way that’s better for your body.
To put it plainly: the paler colour is a badge of honour.
So, What Is Nitrate-Free Ham?
Our nitrate-free ham is traditionally cured using only natural sea salt and organic herbs — no artificial preservatives, no shortcuts. It’s a return to the old ways of curing, where flavour and quality come from time and craft, not chemicals.
The Benefits of Choosing Nitrate-Free (Especially When It’s Organic)
1. A Cleaner, Healthier Choice
Nitrate-free ham helps you avoid potentially harmful additives, offering a more natural product that aligns with a clean eating lifestyle.
2. Flavour, the Way Nature Intended
Without nitrates masking the taste, you’re left with the true flavour of high-welfare, organically raised pork — nuanced, savoury, and deeply satisfying.
3. Organic Welfare Standards You Can Trust
At Eversfield Organic, our pigs are raised on organic pasture, with the freedom to root, forage and live naturally. Organic farming bans the routine use of antibiotics, growth promoters, and GM feed, so you know you're supporting a system that’s kinder to animals and gentler on the planet.
4. Real Food with Real Integrity
We believe that food should be as honest as the farmers who raise it. That’s why our nitrate-free ham is handcrafted in small batches, from organic pigs reared to the highest welfare standards, using time-honoured curing methods.
Don’t Be Fooled by Colour
In a world where bright colours are often equated with freshness, it’s easy to forget that real, natural food doesn’t always conform to expectation. But when it comes to ham, that pale colour is proof you’re making a better choice — for your health, for the environment, and for taste.
So the next time you see a slice of Eversfield Organic’s nitrate-free ham, take pride in its modest appearance. Because in this case, grey is the new gold.
