Sodium Nitrate

Caution preservative

Curing agent that converts to nitrite in the body. Same nitrosamine concerns as nitrite.

Source: EFSA 2017 re-evaluation

Also Known As

E251 chile saltpeter

Regulatory Status

  • FDA (US): Permitted with restrictions Source
  • EFSA (EU): ADI set; concern about nitrosamine formation Source
  • EU Regulation: Permitted with restrictions Source
  • SFA (Singapore): Permitted with restrictions Source

Converted to nitrite in vivo; associated with increased colorectal cancer risk in processed meat consumption.

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