Regarding these Smithfield & similarly prepared smoked hams, is it necessary to also add the various chemicals & preservatives like nitrates, nitrites, etc? If not, there would definitely be a health advantage to them. Wish I could find info on just how the Indians learned these things such as preparing & preserving food & all their many other "tricks" for survival. Diane in TX To subscribe, change options, or unsubscribe, please see the instructions at http://listlva.lib.va.us/archives/va-hist.html