You need to be concerned with both [0]. In short, nitrites and nitrous oxide do the preservative work. Nitrates convert into nitrites and later nitrous oxide o

You need to be concerned with both [0]. In short, nitrites and nitrous oxide do the preservative work. Nitrates convert into nitrites and later nitrous oxide over time. But nitrites can also convert into nitrosamine, which is the danger chemical. [0]: https://www.americastestkitchen.com/cooksillustrated/articles/1701-nitrate-versus-nitrite-what-s-the-difference https://www.americastestkitchen.com/cooksillustrated/article...