sodium nitrate
Basic Information
| Field | Content |
|---|---|
| Chinese name | 硝酸钠 |
| English name | sodium nitrate |
| INS/E number | INS 251 |
| Functional class | Preservative, Colour fixative |
| Year adopted | To be added. |
| Approved by | Australia/New Zealand (FSANZ), European Union (EFSA) |
What is it?
sodium nitrate (INS 251) is a Preservative, Colour retention agent food additive. Used to inhibit the growth of microorganisms (bacteria, yeasts, moulds) and extend shelf life.Used to fix the red colour of meat products, often with curing agents.
Source
Natural：Some occur naturally in foods or are produced by microbial fermentation (e.g. lactic acid, natamycin).E.g. nitrites, nitrates and their derivatives.
Industrial：Most are produced synthetically from the corresponding acids, salts or esters (e.g. benzoates, sorbates, nitrites).Purified.
Why is it used?
- Inhibit moulds, yeasts and bacteria
- Extend shelf life
- Reduce spoilage and foodborne risks
- Fix meat red colour
- Inhibit Clostridium botulinum
- Form cured flavour
Common Foods
- Cured meat
- Beverages
- Jams
- Pickled foods
- Bakery
- Ham
- Sausage
- Bacon and other cured meats
Safety
Approved by multiple authorities within permitted limits; excessive intake may pose health risks, so maximum use levels must be strictly observed.Safe under strict limits; overuse risks nitrosamine formation and is tightly regulated.
Metabolism：Metabolic pathways vary by substance; generally the material is metabolised or excreted normally.
Concerns：
- Use within permitted levels
- Sensitive individuals should check the ingredient list
Usage Standard
China：依据 GB 2760《食品安全国家标准 食品添加剂使用标准》确定使用范围与最大使用量；具体限值随食品类别而异。
International：
- China GB 2760 National Food Safety Standard for Uses of Food Additives：https://www.cfsa.net.cn/
- Codex GSFA General Standard for Food Additives：https://www.fao.org/food-safety/codex-alimentarius/en/
- FAO/WHO JECFA (Joint Expert Committee on Food Additives)：https://www.fao.org/food-safety/scientific-advice/jecfa/en/
- US FDA Substances Added to Food：https://www.fda.gov/food/food-additives-petitions/substances-added-food-previously-food-additive-status-list
- EU EFSA Food Additives：https://www.efsa.europa.eu/en/topics/topic/food-additives
In a nutshell
sodium nitrate is a Preservative, Colour retention agent, safe for use in food production within permitted limits.
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.