What Is Prague #1 Powder?

By Michael Ferguson

Prague #1 Powder – The Ultimate Guide

If you’re a meat lover or a fan of cured meats, you may have heard of Prague #1 powder. This curing agent is an essential ingredient for the production of a wide range of preserved meats like bacon, ham, and sausages.

But what exactly is Prague #1 powder? In this article, we’ll take a deep dive into the world of curing agents and explore everything you need to know about Prague #1 powder.

What is Prague #1 Powder?

Prague powder #1 is a mixture of sodium nitrite and salt. It’s also known as InstaCure #1, pink curing salt, or DQ curing salt.

Prague powder #1 contains 6.25% sodium nitrite and 93.75% table salt. Sodium nitrite is a type of salt that has been used for centuries to preserve meat by inhibiting the growth of bacteria that cause spoilage.

What are the uses of Prague #1 Powder?

Prague powder #1 is used as a curing agent in meat products such as ham, bacon, corned beef, and sausages. It’s also used in some types of jerky to prevent bacterial growth during drying and storage.

When added to meat products, Prague powder #1 reacts with the natural proteins in the meat to create nitric oxide gas. This gas reacts with myoglobin in the meat to give it a pink color that’s associated with cured meats.

How much should I use?

The amount of Prague powder #1 you should use depends on the recipe you’re following. As a general rule, you should use 1 teaspoon (6 grams) for every 5 pounds (2.3 kg) of meat.

It’s important to note that using too much Prague powder #1 can be dangerous. Overuse of this curing agent can lead to nitrite poisoning, which can cause headaches, dizziness, and nausea. Nitrite poisoning can be fatal in extreme cases.

Is Prague #1 Powder safe?

When used correctly, Prague powder #1 is safe. However, it’s important to follow the recommended guidelines for use and storage to avoid nitrite poisoning.

It’s also worth noting that some people are more sensitive to nitrites than others. If you have a history of allergic reactions or asthma, you should talk to your doctor before using Prague powder #1.

Where can I buy Prague #1 Powder?

Prague powder #1 is widely available online and in specialty stores that sell meat curing supplies. When buying Prague powder #1, make sure you’re purchasing from a reputable source and check the expiration date before using it.

The Bottom Line

Prague powder #1 is an essential ingredient for the production of cured meats like ham, bacon, and sausages. It’s safe when used correctly but should be stored out of reach of children and pets. If you’re new to meat curing or unsure about how much Prague powder #1 to use in your recipe, consult a trusted resource like a cookbook or experienced meat curer.