It's difficult to avoid them altogether if you ever buy lunch meat. Though they are beginning to sell "nitrite free" meats and hot dogs, etc.
I stopped buying lunch meats. I just buy more when I cook meals, and use the leftovers ad lunch meats. Pork loins, chicken, all types of beef slice up nicely for a sandwich and tastes much better. The kids love them too.
It does take a bit more time, but it is worth it.
Lunch meat is the worst unhealthiest crap you can eat.