New EU Regulations Define Maximum Nitrate Levels for Foodstuffs
Nitrates occur naturally in plants and they can transform into nitrites and then react with amines and amides to produce N-nitroso compounds. Such compounds have been linked to possible causes of gastric, esophageal, nasopharyngeal, and bladder cancers. Vegetables that are green and leafy, such as lettuce, spinach, and arugula contain higher levels of nitrates than are typical. The nitrogen fertilizers and light intensity used in their cultivation are the main factors responsible for the nitrate content in these vegetables.
View full press release