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potassium nitrite ​

Basic Information ​

FieldContent
Chinese namepotassium nitrite
English namepotassium nitrite
INS/E numberINS 249
Functional classPreservative, Colour fixative
Year adopted1962
Approved byAustralia/New Zealand (FSANZ), European Union (EFSA)

What is it? ​

Potassium nitrite is the potassium salt of nitrous acid, used mainly in cured meats to inhibit Clostridium botulinum and provide colour and flavour, similar to sodium nitrite.

Source ​

Industrial：由亚硝酸钠与氯化钾复分解反应制得亚硝酸钾

Why is it used? ​

  • Inhibits pathogens such as Clostridium botulinum
  • Fixes the characteristic pink/red colour of cured meat
  • Develops the typical cured flavour
  • Delays lipid oxidation

Common Foods ​

  • Cured meats (ham, sausages)
  • Bacon
  • Salted meats
  • Canned meat products

Safety ​

ADI (Acceptable Daily Intake)：0-0.06 mg/kg bw (以亚硝酸根计)

Concerns：

  • 过量可形成亚硝胺（潜在致癌物）
  • 婴幼儿及高铁血红蛋白血症风险人群需谨慎
  • 须严格控制添加量与残留

Usage Standard ​

China：GB 2760《食品安全国家标准 食品添加剂使用标准》；GB 2762 中亚硝酸盐残留限量

International：

  • EU Regulation 1333/2008 Annex II (E 249)
  • Reg. 1333/2008 中腌肉最大残留限量
  • FDA 21 CFR 172.140 (Potassium nitrite)
  • Codex GSFA (INS 249)
  • Codex 腌肉亚硝酸盐限量
  • Australia New Zealand Food Standards Code (Potassium nitrite)
  • JECFA Monograph (ADI 0-0.06 mg/kg bw, as NO2-)

In a nutshell ​

Potassium nitrite is the key colour-fixing and botulinum-inhibiting agent in cured meats, requiring strict limits to avoid nitrosamine risk.

Consumer Advice ​

Potassium nitrite is a curing agent and preservative used mainly in cured meats such as sausages, ham and bacon to give the pink colour, characteristic flavour and protection against botulism. Its use is strictly limited because under certain conditions it can form nitrosamines, which are potential carcinogens. Used within legal limits it is safe, but consumers should moderate their intake of cured meats and avoid frying them at very high temperatures. Children and pregnant women may wish to limit cured products.

Dietary Restrictions ​

  • Vegan: ✅
  • Halal: ✅
  • Kosher: ✅

Allergens ​

✅ Free from common allergens

Disclaimer ​

The information provided here is for discussion and educational purposes only. It is not medical advice or an evaluation/rating of any product or ingredient. This information may not apply to you; before using or taking any action, you should contact the manufacturer, vendor, medical, dietary, fitness, or other professionals. If you use any information provided here, you do so at your own risk.