No nitrates or nitrites added (except for naturally occurring in celery powder). No preservatives added. No antibiotics ever. Made from heritage breed pork. All vegetarian feed. Now growth hormones (Federal regulations prohibit the use of hormones in pork). US inspected and passed by Department of Agriculture. No animal by-products. D'Artagnan Applewood Smoked Uncured bacon is made from heritage breed pork. These breeds produce a meatier, more marbled dark meat using traditional methods. D'Artagnan Applewood Smoked Bacon is crafted from center cut pork bellies and slow smoked for hours. It creates a sweet and distinctive flavor that will impress your family and friends.