Health

Waitrose Launches ‘Made Without Nitrites’ Ham Range in UK First

Good News Post

May 8, 2026 — 2 min read

Waitrose Launches ‘Made Without Nitrites’ Ham Range in UK First - Image supplied Waitrose

By Business Correspondent

Waitrose has become the first UK supermarket to launch a ‘Made Without Nitrites’ ham range, responding to rising demand for simpler ingredients and cleaner labels.

The new products join the retailer’s existing nitrite-free bacon lines, which have already seen strong growth.

Sales of its unsmoked back bacon rashers are up 22% this year, while streaky bacon is up 8%, highlighting growing consumer interest in more natural alternatives.

Jonny Stevens, Meat, Fish & Poultry Buyer at Waitrose, said:

“Customers are looking for a return to basics: simpler ingredients and great taste without compromise. We’ve spent the past year developing our new nitrite-free ham range, and we’re proud to be the first retailer to raise the bar on this lunchtime staple.”

The new range, available from 22nd April in stores and online, includes Made Without Nitrites British Roast Ham and British Honey Roast Ham, both priced at £3.50 for 120g.

The move comes as online searches on Waitrose.com show rising interest in the category, with “ham nitrite free” up 350% and “nitrite free bacon” up 110% compared with last year.

Joanne Lunn, Head of Nutrition at Waitrose, said:

“These new products mean customers can avoid added nitrites often found in processed meats, while still enjoying great flavour. They’re also higher welfare and make a tasty, simple sandwich option.”

The launch reflects a wider shift towards more conscious eating, influenced in part by health experts and public figures encouraging consumers to rethink processed foods.

Nutritionists and social media creators are also increasingly sharing recipes for healthier alternatives to everyday favourites, without sacrificing taste — a trend Waitrose says its new range fits into, offering “the same quality British meat, but without unnecessary additives.”

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