Over the years, Hormel has introduced a variety of SPAM flavors to suit different tastes. From the classic original version to bold twists like Hot & Spicy, Hickory Smoke, and even SPAM with Cheese, there’s a version for almost every palate.
Curious about what goes into a can of classic SPAM? The ingredient list is surprisingly short: pork (including ham), salt, water, sugar, potato starch (which helps bind the ingredients), and sodium nitrate — a preservative commonly used in cured meats to extend shelf life, preserve color, and prevent spoilage.
Sodium nitrate, despite sounding synthetic, naturally occurs in foods like celery and spinach and can even be present in some water supplies. It’s a compound made of sodium and nitrate, and while it plays an important role in food preservation, it has also raised some health concerns.
Scientific studies have linked high nitrate intake to an increased risk of several diseases, including colorectal cancer, leukemia, and heart disease. Excessive consumption may also be associated with ovarian, stomach, pancreatic, and thyroid cancers. Because of these risks, the CDC recommends limiting sodium nitrate intake to no more than 3.7 milligrams per kilogram of body weight per day.
Unfortunately, tracking nitrate intake isn't easy, as this additive often doesn’t appear clearly on nutrition labels — making it difficult for consumers to monitor how much they’re actually consuming.
