Is Insta Cure #1 the Same as Prague Powder?

By Michael Ferguson

Are you confused about Insta Cure #1 and Prague Powder? Do you think they are the same thing? Well, let’s get to the bottom of this debate.

What is Insta Cure #1?

Insta Cure #1 is a curing salt that is used to preserve meat. It contains 6.25% sodium nitrite, which helps in extending the shelf life of food products. This curing salt is commonly used in making cured meats like bacon, ham, and salami.

What is Prague Powder?

Prague powder is another type of curing salt that contains sodium nitrite. However, it also contains sodium nitrate which breaks down into sodium nitrite over time. Prague powder comes in two types – Prague Powder #1 and Prague Powder #2.

Prague Powder #1

Prague Powder #1 consists of 6.25% sodium nitrite and 93.75% salt. This type of curing salt is used for short-term cures like sausage making or brining.

Prague Powder #2

Prague Powder #2 consists of 6.25% sodium nitrite, 4% sodium nitrate, and 89. This type of curing salt is used for long-term cures like dry-cured hams or air-dried salami.

The Main Difference between Insta Cure #1 and Prague Powder

The main difference between Insta Cure #1 and Prague powder lies in their composition and usage. Insta Cure #1 only contains sodium nitrite while Prague powder contains both sodium nitrate and sodium nitrite. Additionally, Insta Cure #1 is used for short-term cures while Prague powder can be used for both short-term and long-term cures.

Can You Substitute Insta Cure #1 with Prague Powder?

In general, it is not recommended to substitute Insta Cure #1 with Prague Powder because of the differences in their composition. However, if you have to substitute one for the other, it is advised to use Prague Powder #1 as a substitute for Insta Cure #1.

The Bottom Line

In conclusion, Insta Cure #1 and Prague powder are not the same thing. While both contain sodium nitrite, Prague powder also contains sodium nitrate which makes it suitable for long-term cures. It is important to use the correct type of curing salt for your recipe to ensure food safety and quality.