Processed
Sodium Nitrite
Sodium nitrite is a curing salt used at tightly controlled levels in bacon, ham, frankfurters, corned beef, and other cured meats. It fixes pink cured colour via nitric oxide–myoglobin chemistry, contributes characteristic cured flavour, and inhibits Clostridium botulinum outgrowth in anaerobic vacuum packs and large-diameter products. Retail “pink curing salt” dilutes pure nitrite in sodium chloride so kitchen and plant scales can dose safely; pure food-grade nitrite is handled as a restricted industrial ingredient. Correct use follows regulated maximum residual and ingoing limits; excess is toxic and illegal. Pair with salt, refrigeration, and validated processes—nitrite is not a blanket sterilant. Ascorbate or erythorbate accelerates cure colour and helps manage nitrosamine risk in fried bacon systems. Store locked, labelled, and dry, never confused with table salt or nitrate blends.
Also known as: E250, Sodium nitrite, Sodium nitrite, Natriumnitrit, A-sanchisso natoriumu, Nitrito de sódio
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Nutrition
Typical values per 100 g edible portion. Nutrient names open the reference page.
Nutrition Facts
Per 100 g edible portion
Amount per 100 g
- Total Fat 0 g
- Saturated Fat 0 g
- Trans Fat 0 g
- Monounsaturated Fat 0 g
- Polyunsaturated Fat 0 g
- Cholesterol 0 mg
- Sodium 33320 mg
- Salt 83.3 g
- Total Carbohydrate 0 g
- Dietary Fibre 0 g
- Total Sugars 0 g
- Complex / starch 0 g
- Protein 0 g
- Water 0.2 g
- Water 0.2 g
- Minerals 33320 mg
- Major Minerals 33320 mg
- Sodium 33320 mg
Minerals
Pure food-grade sodium nitrite (NaNO2) is an inorganic curing salt. It is not a meat or starch
History
Saltpetre-rich salts were observed to redden and preserve meat long before nitrite chemistry was isolated.
Research clarified nitrite—not only nitrate—as the active curing agent formed in traditional cures.
Direct sodium nitrite curing became regulated industrial practice for hams, bacon, and sausages.
Nitrosamine concerns drove lower ingoing limits and ascorbate use in bacon regulations.
Cultured celery and other nitrate-to-nitrite “natural cure” systems paralleled classical E250 nitrite use.