sodium nitrate
Basic Information
| Field | Content |
|---|---|
| Chinese name | sodium nitrate |
| English name | sodium nitrate |
| INS/E number | INS 251 |
| Functional class | Preservative, Colour fixative |
| Year adopted | 1962 |
| Approved by | Australia/New Zealand (FSANZ), European Union (EFSA) |
What is it?
Sodium nitrate is the sodium salt of nitric acid; in cured meats it is partly reduced to nitrite, providing colour fixation and antimicrobial effects, and also serves as a preservative aid.
Source
Industrial：由硝酸与氢氧化钠中和制得，或从天然硝石提纯
Why is it used?
- Slowly reduces to nitrite in meat for colour and antimicrobial effects
- Extends shelf life of cured meats
- Provides a stable curing agent source
- Used in dry-cured, long-matured products
Common Foods
- Dry-cured meats (e.g. dry sausages, hams)
- Bacon
- Salted meats
- Some cheeses
Safety
ADI (Acceptable Daily Intake)：0-3.7 mg/kg bw (以硝酸根计)
Concerns：
- 可转化为亚硝酸根，存在亚硝胺风险
- 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 中硝酸盐残留限量
International：
- EU Regulation 1333/2008 Annex II (E 251)
- Reg. 1333/2008 中腌肉最大残留限量
- FDA 21 CFR 172.170 (Sodium nitrate)
- Codex GSFA (INS 251)
- Codex 腌肉硝酸盐限量
- Australia New Zealand Food Standards Code (Sodium nitrate)
- JECFA Monograph (ADI 0-3.7 mg/kg bw, as NO3-)
In a nutshell
Sodium nitrate slowly converts to nitrite in cured meats for colour and preservation, requiring residue and nitrosamine control.
Consumer Advice
Sodium nitrate is a curing aid and preservative in cured meats, usually used together with nitrites: bacteria slowly convert it to nitrite, providing sustained colour and antimicrobial activity. It also occurs naturally in some vegetables. Its use is strictly regulated because excessive intake is linked to nitrosamine formation and potential health risks. Compliant products are safe, but it is sensible to eat cured meats in moderation and to pair them with fresh vegetables, since vitamin C inhibits nitrosamine formation.
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.