Ingredient

Sodium Nitrite: Sugar

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Source

Unknown

Not yet classified by editors

Allergen

No

Role in food

Sodium nitrite is primarily used as a preservative in cured meats like bacon, ham, …

What it is

Sodium nitrite is a white crystalline salt, a compound of sodium and nitrogen. It is often produced industrially through chemical reactions involving sodium nitrate or by reducing nitrates in beet powder. It is commonly used as a food preservative.

Why it's used

Sodium nitrite is primarily used as a preservative in cured meats like bacon, ham, and hot dogs. It helps prevent the growth of harmful bacteria, particularly Clostridium botulinum, and contributes to the characteristic pink color and cured flavor of these products.

Health notes

Sodium nitrite is approved by the FDA for use as a food additive, primarily in cured meats. When consumed, it can form nitrosamines, some of which are considered potentially carcinogenic by the World Health Organization's International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC). However, regulatory bodies like the FDA and EFSA have determined that sodium nitrite is safe at the levels typically found in cured meats, and its use is essential for preventing botulism. Research into the health effects of nitrites and nitrates is ongoing, with some studies suggesting potential links to certain health issues at high intakes, while others emphasize their role in preventing bacterial contamination.

Allergen info

Sodium nitrite is not derived from any of the 9 FDA major allergens. It does not contain gluten.

Products containing Sodium Nitrite: Sugar

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The Kroger Co. Chicken & Bacon Cobb Side Salad Pickles, Olives, Peppers & Relishes High in sodium — 40% DV per serving High in saturated fat — 40% DV per serving High in cholesterol — 86% DV per serving 161kcal 10.6Protein 11.4Fat 4.4Carbs The Kroger Co. Jarlsberg Cheese & Bacon Half Quiche Other Deli High in sodium — 36% DV per serving High in saturated fat — 95% DV per serving High in cholesterol — 70% DV per serving 331kcal 12.6Protein 25.2Fat 11.9Carbs The Kroger Co. Turkey & Bacon Cobb Wrap Prepared Wraps and Burittos High in sodium — 122% DV per serving High in saturated fat — 100% DV per serving High in cholesterol — 102% DV per serving 248kcal 12.5Protein 15.1Fat 14.9Carbs Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. Angus Beef Patties With Asiago Cheese, Applewood Bacon Frozen Patties and Burgers High in sodium — 27% DV per serving High in saturated fat — 70% DV per serving High in cholesterol — 37% DV per serving 291kcal 17.9Protein 23.8Fat 0Carbs Renaissance Food Group, LLC Chicken Breast Cobb Salad With Bacon, Salads Pickles, Olives, Peppers & Relishes 140kcal 8Protein 10Fat 3Carbs

Safeway, Inc. Turkey Club Sandwich Wrap Prepared Wraps and Burittos High in sodium — 33% DV per serving High in saturated fat — 30% DV per serving 282kcal 10.3Protein 17.9Fat 19.7Carbs

WaffleWaffle, LLC. Glazed Brussels, Sprouts & Bacon Brussels Sprouts Topped With Bacon & A Balsamic Glaze, Glazed Brussels Sprouts & Bacon Other Deli 138kcal 5.3Protein 6.4Fat 9.6Carbs Lone Star Bakery Inc. Jalapeno Cheese Kolache, Jalapeno Cheese Prepared Subs & Sandwiches High in sodium — 45% DV per serving High in saturated fat — 35% DV per serving High in cholesterol — 22% DV per serving 406kcal 15.8Protein 18.3Fat 40.8Carbs Nash Finch Company Seven Layer Salad Pickles, Olives, Peppers & Relishes High in saturated fat — 30% DV per serving High in cholesterol — 36% DV per serving 178kcal 6.1Protein 15.3Fat 4.9Carbs Raley's Chicken & Bacon Wrap, Chicken & Bacon Prepared Wraps and Burittos High in sodium — 62% DV per serving High in saturated fat — 60% DV per serving High in cholesterol — 24% DV per serving 214kcal 9.2Protein 16.0Fat 21.8Carbs Nardone Brothers Baking Co. Inc. 16 Whole Wheat Self-Rising Four Cheese Meateaters Pizza Topped with Tomato Sauce, Mozzarella, Provolone, Parmesan, Romano, Sausage, Pepperoni, Canadian Style Bacon and Bacon Savoury Bakery Products High in sodium — 45% DV per serving High in saturated fat — 65% DV per serving 252kcal 12.1Protein 12.6Fat 23.7Carbs Nardone Brothers Baking Co. Inc. 16" Whole Wheat Pizzeria Style Pizza Topped with Robust Sauce, Mozzarella Cheese, Sausage, Pepperoni, Canadian Style Bacon, and Bacon Savoury Bakery Products High in sodium — 40% DV per serving High in saturated fat — 59% DV per serving High in cholesterol — 20% DV per serving 354kcal 21Protein 17Fat 29Carbs

Last updated: September 28, 2026

Note: This site presents label data from USDA FoodData Central for general information. It is not medical advice. Check the package label; formulations change.