Nearly half (47%) of consumers of deli meats are concerned about nitrites in cold cuts, according to a SOMi survey conducted on behalf of Olymel, Canada. To address this issue, Olymel revealed a new line of sliced deli meat that is 100% free of nitrites and phosphates, including Black Forest Smoked Ham, Old Fashioned Smoked Ham and Smoked Turkey Breast.

"Thanks to a winning combination of citrus, pomegranate, yeast and spice extracts, we don't need any nitrites or phosphates,” says Isabelle Marquis, consulting dietitian. “We're often reminded, with good reason, to take care of our health by eating less processed foods that are high in sodium, sugar and fat. But, you don't often hear about additives. We need to limit and monitor our consumption of additives like nitrites and phosphates. So, Olymel's new line of nitrite- and phosphate-free deli meats is one of the best choices for regular consumers of cold cuts."

"These innovative products, the fruit of a year and a half of work, are a direct result of our social responsibility plan," adds Lise Gagnon, vice president, marketing, research and development. "By developing these products, which echo consumers' real concerns about deli meats and their nitrites levels, Olymel has reinforced its position as a leader in healthy solutions."

These new 100% nitrite- and phosphate-free sliced meats are a go-to for quick sandwiches, cold cut platters or any other meal served at breakfast, lunch or dinner.

They're available in 150-gram, vacuum-sealed packages at IGA, Metro and Super C (Québec) and Sobey's (Atlantic Canada) for a suggested retail price of $5.39.