What Does Prague Powder Do?

By Michael Ferguson

If you are a food enthusiast or in the food industry, you might have heard of Prague Powder, also known as pink salt or curing salt. It is a type of salt that is used to preserve meat and prevent the growth of bacteria.

But what exactly does Prague Powder do? Let’s dive in!

What is Prague Powder?

Prague Powder is a mixture of regular table salt and sodium nitrite. It is used to cure meat and give it a distinct pink color, which makes it look more appetizing to consumers.

How Does It Work?

When Prague Powder is used to cure meat, it works by inhibiting the growth of bacteria and preventing spoilage. The sodium nitrite in Prague Powder reacts with the meat’s proteins, forming nitric oxide which then binds with myoglobin (a protein responsible for giving meat its red color), resulting in a pinkish hue.

Is It Safe?

Prague Powder is safe when used in the correct proportions. However, it should only be used for curing meats and not as a regular table salt. When used incorrectly or ingested in large amounts, it can be harmful.

How Is It Used?

Prague Powder is usually added to cured meats such as ham, bacon, corned beef, and sausages to enhance their flavor and extend their shelf life. To use it properly, you need to follow specific guidelines on how much to use per pound of meat.

Curing Ham with Prague Powder

  • For every 100 pounds of ham use 1 pound of Prague powder #1
  • Dissolve the powder in cold water before injecting or soaking the ham
  • Refrigerate for at least 24 hours before smoking or cooking.

Curing Bacon with Prague Powder

  • For every 100 pounds of bacon use 2 pounds of Prague powder #1
  • Apply the mixture to the bacon and refrigerate for at least 24 hours before smoking or cooking.

Conclusion

Prague Powder is an essential ingredient in the meat curing process. It not only enhances the flavor of cured meats but also extends their shelf life.

However, it must be used in the correct proportions and should not be ingested in large amounts. It’s important to always follow specific guidelines for each type of meat to ensure its safety and effectiveness.