Nestle has said it is “revolutionising” France’s charcuterie market with the launch of what it claims is the first sodium nitrite-free cooked ham as part of an on-going drive for fewer additives in its products.

E250, a salt and anti-oxidant, has long been used to cure meats like ham, bacon and hot dogs and serves to block the growth of botulism-causing bacteria while also preventing spoilage.

However, at Nestle’s Herta subsidiary, the company has worked for five years on developing a new recipe and production method for its Le Bon Paris brand cooked ham that is “sodium nitrite-free … while guaranteeing total food safety”.

The new recipe cooked ham – available in three varieties – steamed, smoked and au torchon –  was launched on the French market yesterday, starting with a number of Carrefour outlets and will have a gradual roll-out across the supermarket channel in France over the next few months, a Herta spokesperson confirmed to just-food.

Depending on the response from customers, the recipe could be extended to other Herta products such as hot dog-type sausages and bacon, he added.

How well do you really know your competitors?

Access the most comprehensive Company Profiles on the market, powered by GlobalData. Save hours of research. Gain competitive edge.

Company Profile – free sample

Thank you!

Your download email will arrive shortly

Not ready to buy yet? Download a free sample

We are confident about the unique quality of our Company Profiles. However, we want you to make the most beneficial decision for your business, so we offer a free sample that you can download by submitting the below form

By GlobalData
Visit our Privacy Policy for more information about our services, how we may use, process and share your personal data, including information of your rights in respect of your personal data and how you can unsubscribe from future marketing communications. Our services are intended for corporate subscribers and you warrant that the email address submitted is your corporate email address.