Hi, thanks for your comment. I agree it can be difficult to avoid harmful chemicals, even in 'healthy' food. Nitrates are often added to processed food as a preservative, but naturally occurring nitrates in vegetables are different and not harmful (as I understand it). The best thing to do is buy organic, or better yet - grow your own if you can. You might find this information helpful: http://www.healthychild.org/how-to-avoid-added-nitrates-and-nitrites-in-your-food/