Givaudan debuts natural nitrite alternative for processed meat

Givaudan has launched NaNino+, a patent-pending combination of plant-based ingredients and natural flavourings to be used as a nitrite replacement in processed meat.

According to Givaudan, processed meat manufacturers are looking for clean label solutions to naturally avoid the use of nitrites in recipes.

NaNino+ will expand the company’s Sense Preservation portfolio of natural shelf life solutions as well as add to its existing clean label curing alternatives. Varying market regulations means that Givaudan can support customers by tailor-fitting NaNino+ to local regulations and consumer preferences.

Guillaume Gaborit, global product manager for sense preservation at Givaudan, said: “Because nitrites provide multiple benefits, replacing them is no easy task. Alternative solutions must provide the same level of performance without the associated risks.”

He continued: “This is what sets NaNino+ apart: it’s an integrated solution that not only ensures freshness throughout shelf life, but also delivers a cured-like multi-sensory experience in terms of taste and colour. This compelling combination provides high performance in the application itself and may allow for a “nitrite-free” claim on the label.”

The nitrate replacement will initially be available in Europe for emulsified cooked sausages to start, with the expansion to other applications such as cooked ham and bacon.