Is Prague Powder #1 the Same as Instacure?

By Anna Duncan

Are you a fan of making your own cured meats? If so, you may have come across terms like Prague Powder #1 and Instacure.

While both of these products are used for curing meat, there is often confusion about whether they are the same thing. In this article, we will explore the differences between Prague Powder #1 and Instacure.

What is Prague Powder #1?

Prague Powder #1, also known as pink curing salt or tinted cure mix, is a mixture of sodium chloride (table salt) and sodium nitrite. This curing salt is commonly used in the production of cured meats such as bacon, ham, and sausage. The pink color in Prague Powder #1 comes from the addition of a dye that helps distinguish it from regular table salt.

What is Instacure?

Instacure, on the other hand, is a brand name for a type of curing salt made by the company Morton Salt. Like Prague Powder #1, Instacure contains sodium nitrite as its active ingredient. However, unlike Prague Powder #1, Instacure does not contain any table salt.

Are They Interchangeable?

While both Prague Powder #1 and Instacure can be used for curing meat, they are not interchangeable in recipes. This is because their compositions are different – Prague Powder #1 contains both sodium chloride and sodium nitrite while Instacure only contains sodium nitrite.

How to Use Them

When using either Prague Powder #1 or Instacure in your recipes, it’s important to follow the instructions carefully to ensure that you use the correct amount. The general rule of thumb for using curing salts is to use one teaspoon per five pounds of meat.

Safety Concerns

It’s important to note that while these curing salts are effective at preventing the growth of harmful bacteria, they can be toxic in large amounts. Overconsumption of sodium nitrite can lead to poisoning, so it’s important to use curing salts in moderation and according to instructions.

Conclusion

In summary, Prague Powder #1 and Instacure are both curing salts that contain sodium nitrite. However, Prague Powder #1 also contains table salt while Instacure does not. While both products are effective at curing meat, it’s important to use them as directed and not interchangeably in recipes to ensure proper results and safety.