Sodium Nitrite Vegetable Oil
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What it is
Sodium nitrite is a white crystalline powder. It is a salt of nitrite, and is often produced industrially by mixing nitrogen oxides with sodium carbonate or sodium hydroxide. It is used as a food preservative and coloring agent.
Why it's used
Sodium nitrite is primarily used in cured meats like ham, bacon, and hot dogs. It helps to preserve the meat, prevent the growth of harmful bacteria like Clostridium botulinum, and give cured meats their characteristic pink color and flavor.
Health notes
In the US, sodium nitrite is approved by the FDA as a food additive. It is also listed as Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) for specific uses. The World Health Organization's International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) has classified processed meats, which often contain sodium nitrite, as carcinogenic to humans. However, regulatory bodies like the FDA and EFSA continue to permit its use in cured meats at controlled levels, citing its role in preventing botulism. Research on the link between nitrites and health outcomes is ongoing, with some studies suggesting potential risks and others finding no significant harm at typical consumption levels.
Allergen info
Not a major allergen.