Nitrates are chemicals are found in our food. Usually we think of them as being dangerous and not healthy because they turn to Nitrosamines which are carcinogenic. Usually this occurs when food is cooked at higher temperatures, or when it is barbequed. Many meat products contain nitrates as a preservative. Meats such as bacon, hot dogs, sausages, salami, and many lunch meats contain nitrates. Dr. Len explains that prepared properly, nitrates can be your friend. There is a balance in our eco system between plants and humans and nitrates are no exception and play an important role.