Sodium Erythorbate Sodium Nitrate

Sodium erythorbate is a salt of erythorbic acid, a form of vitamin C. It is produced commercially through the fermentation of sugars by specific microorganisms. Sodium nitrate is a naturally occurring mineral salt.

Sodium erythorbate is used as an antioxidant and curing agent in processed meats like hot dogs and sausages. It helps to preserve color and flavor, and speeds up the curing process. Sodium nitrate is also used as a preservative and color fixative in cured meats.

Sodium erythorbate is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA. Both sodium erythorbate and sodium nitrate have been evaluated by JECFA, which has established acceptable daily intakes for them. While generally considered safe in typical food amounts, high intake of nitrates can be converted to nitrites in the body, which have raised some health concerns, though evidence is mixed and context-dependent. The FDA permits their use in cured meats.