Food Additives Encyclopedia

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sodium nitrite ​

Basic Information ​

FieldContent
Chinese namesodium nitrite
English namesodium nitrite
INS/E numberINS 250
Functional classPreservative, Colour fixative
Year adopted1962
Approved byAustralia/New Zealand (FSANZ), European Union (EFSA)

What is it? ​

Sodium nitrite is the sodium salt of nitrous acid, widely used in cured meats to inhibit Clostridium botulinum, fix colour and impart characteristic flavour; it is the most common nitrite additive.

Source ​

Industrial：由硝酸钠还原或亚硝酸与氢氧化钠中和制得亚硝酸钠

Why is it used? ​

  • Inhibits pathogens such as Clostridium botulinum
  • Fixes the pink/red cured-meat colour
  • Develops the typical cured flavour
  • Delays lipid oxidation and extends shelf life

Common Foods ​

  • Cured meats (ham, sausages)
  • Bacon
  • Salted meats
  • Canned meat products
  • Some fish 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）
  • 高铁血红蛋白血症风险（婴幼儿尤甚）
  • 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 250)
  • Reg. 1333/2008 中腌肉最大残留限量
  • FDA 21 CFR 172.175 (Sodium nitrite)
  • Codex GSFA (INS 250)
  • Codex 腌肉亚硝酸盐限量
  • Australia New Zealand Food Standards Code (Sodium nitrite)
  • JECFA Monograph (ADI 0-0.06 mg/kg bw, as NO2-)

In a nutshell ​

Sodium nitrite is an essential colour-fixing and botulinum-inhibiting agent in cured meats, requiring strict limits to avoid nitrosamine risk.

Consumer Advice ​

Sodium nitrite is the most widely used curing agent in meat products such as ham, sausages and bacon, preserving colour and flavour and preventing botulism. Because it can form nitrosamines with meat components, regulators set strict limits and often require combination with ascorbic acid to reduce formation. It is safe in compliant products used per standards, but it is wise to eat cured meats in moderation and avoid very high-temperature frying. Children and sensitive groups should limit intake.

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.