1) to prevent the formation of nitrosamines by competing with secondary amines for any nitrite present
2) to hasten the nitrate/nitrite curing process
3) to fix and preserve the �cured meat� colour during product storage.
Neither of these chemicals would be added as part of a �pre-mixed cure� as they could react with the nitrate/nitrite present � prematurely creating a hazardous nitric oxide gas environment.
Aris wrote
What's with the restriction on Paprika?
In the U.S. paprika or oleoresin of paprika are considered both a flavouring and colouring and may therefore not be used in any FRESH sausages, though it is allowed in dried sausages etc. The same conditions/restrictions do not however, apply to U.K./E.U. regulations.
I hope that this information is of some use to you
kind regards
Parson Snows