Rashers Made Without Nitrites: What It Means — and Why It Matters

Rashers have always had a special place at Irish tables — from the classic weekend fry to the comforting rasher sandwich after school. At Truly Irish, we’re proud to continue that long-standing tradition, while also responding to how Irish consumers want to eat today.

That’s why we developed Truly Irish Rashers Made Without Nitrites — bringing together trusted Irish farming, great taste, and a more natural way of doing things.

Since launching last October, we’ve been delighted with the consumer response and the growing demand for this product nationwide.

What Are Nitrites — and Why Are People Talking About Them?

For decades, nitrites have been commonly added to bacon to help preserve colour and freshness. At the time, this was considered essential.

Today, however, consumer awareness has evolved. More and more people are paying closer attention to ingredients and are actively seeking out foods made in a more natural way — including processed meats without added nitrites.

That shift in consumer thinking is exactly what inspired us to do things differently.

How Truly Irish Does It Differently

After years of careful development, we found a way to deliver the same great taste you expect from Irish rashers — without using nitrites.

Instead, we use fruit and spice extracts that are naturally rich in antioxidants. These extracts help:

  • Maintain the vibrant colour of the rashers

  • Keep them fresh

  • Deliver great cooking performance

All while offering a more natural alternative.

The result? Rashers that cook beautifully, taste just as delicious, and come with added reassurance for you and your family.

Why This Matters for You

Choosing Rashers Made Without Nitrites means you’re choosing:

Health & Wellness
Consumers are increasingly looking for simpler, more wholesome ingredients in the foods they already love.

No Compromise on Taste
Our rashers still deliver the familiar flavour and texture that Irish households expect.

Farmer-Owned Provenance
Truly Irish is owned by 85 Irish farming families. When you choose our rashers, you’re directly supporting Irish farmers, rural communities, and local jobs.

Proudly the Only Irish Rashers of Their Kind

We’re especially proud to say that Truly Irish is currently the only Irish company producing rashers made without nitrites.

It’s a product that reflects our commitment to innovation, transparency, and staying true to Irish food values — while meeting the needs of modern consumers.

Where to Find Them

You can currently find Truly Irish Rashers Made Without Nitrites in leading retailers nationwide, including:

  • Dunnes Stores

  • Musgrave

  • BWG Foods — including SPAR, Londis and MACE

And we’re delighted to share that they will be arriving on shelves in Tesco this March.

If you don’t see them in your local store yet, a quick word with your store manager can really help — customer requests genuinely influence what appears on shelves.

A Simple Choice, Made the Irish Way

Rashers Made Without Nitrites are a small change that can make a meaningful difference. With Truly Irish, you’re choosing:

  • Fewer additives

  • Irish farming

  • A product made with care, innovation, and pride

Thank you for supporting Irish farmers — and for choosing food that’s simply, Truly Irish.

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