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Bacon Backlash: UK Consumers Revolt Over Nitrites
6 Mar
Summary
- Sales of traditional bacon dropped 7.3% in three months.
- Nitrite-free bacon sales surged 21.7% in the same period.
- Campaigners link nitrites to increased cancer risk.
UK supermarkets are experiencing a significant shift in consumer preference, marked by a 'bacon backlash' against traditionally cured products. This trend is driven by consumer fears that nitrites, used for preservation and color, may increase cancer risk. Sales of nitrite-cured bacon saw a 7.3% decline in the 12 weeks leading up to January 25, representing an £18.7 million drop compared to the previous year.
Conversely, sales of nitrite-free bacon have risen by 21.7% during the same period, reaching £9.4 million. This growth underscores a growing consumer demand for foods perceived as safer and free from additives. Experts and campaigners are hailing this as a 'consumer revolt' and a 'market correction,' supported by cross-party political backing seeking a phase-out of nitrites.
Despite the growing concern and market shift, the Food Standards Agency maintains that the link between nitrites and health effects remains inconclusive. Trade bodies note ongoing efforts by processors to reduce nitrite levels without compromising public health, while also emphasizing that product brand owners ultimately decide on nitrite usage in their recipes. The overall value of bacon sales in the UK has also seen a slight decrease.
