Oscar Mayeringredients: what's banned overseas?

About Oscar Mayer

Oscar Mayer is one of the most iconic processed meat brands in the US, produced by Kraft Heinz. The brand covers hot dogs, bologna, bacon, deli meats, Lunchables, and Vienna sausages, sold at grocery chains and mass retailers nationwide. It is one of the most recognizable deli and processed meat brands in American consumer culture.

Common concerns with Oscar Mayer products

Oscar Mayer hot dogs and most cured meats contain sodium nitrite as a curing agent and color preservative. IARC (WHO) classifies processed meats as Group 1 carcinogens in the context of colorectal cancer, and sodium nitrite is the primary mechanism. Oscar Mayer Bologna additionally contains mechanically separated chicken/turkey, corn syrup, and sodium phosphate. Some Lunchables products (marketed to children) contain multiple artificial dyes, sodium nitrite, and high sodium. Oscar Mayer's Natural line offers nitrite-free options using celery juice concentrate.