Does it have nitrates or dexteose

Our Rays Country Ham is Blue Ridge Mountain dry-cured & aged with Salt, White Sugar, Brown Sugar, Sodium Nitrate, and Sodium Nitrite. Thanks for asking, Ray Jr.

Does this ham require refrigeration?

No, you do not need to refrigerate, and it is "shelf-safe" for an extended period. That is why it can be safely shipped without refrigeration. However, it should always be kept in a cool place, and it is best to refrigerate. After the vacuum package is opened any Country Ham not consumed from that package must be refrigerated. Ray, Jr.

Is the Country ham salt cured and what is the thickness of each slice?

Yes, our Country Ham is preserved with a natural salt-cured process as used on the family farms in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina for generations. Our Premium Center Cut Steaks are 1/4 inch thick. They should be seared quickly in a hot skillet only long enough to bring the internal temperature to 160 F. Thank you for your question. Ray Jr.