I wonder if they've reworded it from when you got those quotes as it opens with

While many experts argue there is no evidence processed meat made without nitrites is safer, retailers have responded to consumer concerns by offering “nitrite-free” products to meet demand.

Now, which is about the nebulous experts claims now

Also a couple of paragraphs after your second quote is

The FSA says no single component of processed meat has been identified as the cause, and there is no definitive evidence that nitrites directly cause cancer.

The FSA also says there is no evidence that processed meats made without nitrate or nitrite additives are safer. It adds that removing them can create food safety challenges, because they help prevent the growth of dangerous bacteria and must be replaced by other methods of preservation.

Not sure if the editor is paid off by big bacon or if there's more nuance here than it's just bad, but I'll agree it's a bit of a crap article