Potassium nitrite
What is Potassium nitrite?
Potassium nitrite is an inorganic salt, a white crystalline powder. It is produced industrially through chemical synthesis, often involving reactions with nitrogen oxides and potassium compounds. It is used as a food additive, primarily for its preservative properties.
Is Potassium nitrite vegan?
Potassium nitrite is not animal-derived. Products that contain it can still include other animal-derived ingredients, so check the full ingredient list.
Is Potassium nitrite a major allergen?
Potassium nitrite is not one of the 14 major allergens that UK law requires to be emphasised on food labels.
What is Potassium nitrite used for?
Potassium nitrite is added to cured meats, such as bacon and ham, to prevent the growth of bacteria, particularly Clostridium botulinum.
Is Potassium nitrite safe?
Potassium nitrite is an authorised food additive in Great Britain, listed on the Register of Food Additive Authorisations.
Why it's used
Potassium nitrite is added to cured meats, such as bacon and ham, to prevent the growth of bacteria, particularly Clostridium botulinum. It also contributes to the characteristic pink colour and cured flavour of these products. It is used in conjunction with sodium nitrite.
Health notes
Potassium nitrite is an authorised food additive in Great Britain, listed on the Register of Food Additive Authorisations. EFSA has evaluated nitrites and concluded that exposure to nitrites from all sources is unlikely to be of concern for the majority of the population. However, concerns have been raised regarding the potential formation of nitrosamines, which are classified as carcinogenic to humans by the WHO/IARC, during the cooking of cured meats. Evidence on the direct health effects of nitrites at typical dietary intakes is mixed, and research is ongoing.
Regulatory status
Authorised in Great Britain (FSA register): England, Scotland, Wales. FSA register of authorised products
Allergen info
Potassium nitrite is not one of the 14 major allergens that UK law requires to be emphasised on food labels. Not a major allergen.
Foods that contain Potassium nitrite
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