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potassium nitrate ​

Basic Information ​

FieldContent
Chinese namepotassium nitrate
English namepotassium nitrate
INS/E numberINS 252
Functional classPreservative, Colour fixative
Year adopted1962
Approved byAustralia/New Zealand (FSANZ)

What is it? ​

Potassium nitrate is the potassium salt of nitric acid; in cured meats it is partly reduced to nitrite, providing colour fixation and antimicrobial effects, and serves as a preservative aid.

Source ​

Industrial：由硝酸与氢氧化钾中和制得，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
  • Used in dry-cured, long-matured products
  • Serves as a sodium-free curing agent

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 252)
  • Reg. 1333/2008 中腌肉最大残留限量
  • FDA 21 CFR 172.165 (Potassium nitrate)
  • Codex GSFA (INS 252)
  • Codex 腌肉硝酸盐限量
  • Australia New Zealand Food Standards Code (Potassium nitrate)
  • JECFA Monograph (ADI 0-3.7 mg/kg bw, as NO3-)

In a nutshell ​

Potassium nitrate slowly converts to nitrite in cured meats for colour and preservation, requiring residue and nitrosamine control.

Consumer Advice ​

Potassium nitrate (saltpetre) is a mineral salt used mainly in cured meats such as ham, sausages and bacon to prevent spoilage and preserve the pink colour of meat. In the body it converts to nitrite, which can react with amines to form nitrosamines, a potential carcinogen, so its use is strictly limited by law. Amounts allowed in compliant products are considered safe, but it is wise to moderate intake of processed meats, especially for pregnant women and young children.

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.