thyme
Herbs & Spices
Is thyme high in nitrites?
Find out whether thyme is high or low in nitrites, see its exact rating, and check its FODMAP, salicylate, oxalate and diet compatibility all in one place.
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Sensitivity notes
Why nitrites food checker matters
Nitrites are preservatives commonly used in cured meats. Some people are sensitive to them, experiencing headaches, flushing, or other symptoms after consumption.
- Choose uncured or 'no nitrates/nitrites added' meat products
- Note that 'natural' nitrites from celery powder act the same way
- Fresh meat is nitrite-free
Triggers
Diets
Serving size, prep, and portion notes for thyme
Thyme is a Mediterranean herb that carries salicylates, so it is worth a second look if you are salicylate-sensitive and react to aspirin-rich foods. The good news for anyone who cooks with it constantly in roasts, stocks and slow braises is that thyme tests a step lower on salicylates than rosemary or oregano, and it is clean on histamine, FODMAPs, gluten and nightshade. A sprig tucked into a stock is a small dose; a herb-heavy marinade is where salicylate-sensitive people notice it.
Watch for
Moderate salicylate, though a notch below rosemary and oregano, so it is the gentler pick among the woody Mediterranean herbs if you tolerate small amounts / Slight oxalate content, only relevant in the concentrated dried form used generously / A mild histamine-liberating note, rarely an issue at culinary sprig quantities
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Nitrites Guide
Everything you need to know about nitrites sensitivity and smart food choices.
Nitrites are preservatives commonly used in cured meats. Some people are sensitive to them, experiencing headaches, flushing, or other symptoms after consumption.
Sensitivity varies widely. What triggers one person may be fine for another. Track your reactions to find your personal threshold.
These foods are generally well-tolerated for Nitrites sensitivity:
View all safe options
These foods have moderate levels and may be tolerated in small amounts:
These foods are high in nitrites and may trigger symptoms:
View full list
If you're sensitive to Nitrites, consider these strategies:
- 1Choose uncured or 'no nitrates/nitrites added' meat products
- 2Note that 'natural' nitrites from celery powder act the same way
- 3Fresh meat is nitrite-free
- 4Bacon, hot dogs, and deli meats are common sources
- 5Vegetables like celery and beets contain natural nitrates
Pro tip: Keep a food diary to track your reactions. The Triggerbites app makes this easy with automatic pattern detection.
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Get the AppFAQ
Is thyme high in Nitrites?
Nitrites: low signal for most people.
Can I still eat thyme if I'm sensitive to Nitrites?
Usually fine in normal portions.
What else should I check?
Check Salicylates, Histamine Liberators, and Oxalates next for a fuller picture.