Potassium nitrite
Learn what Potassium nitrite (E249) is, why it's added to food, whether it's safe, and which products contain it.
Moderate concernWhat is Potassium nitrite?
Potassium nitrite is a food additive classified as a preservative, produced through chemical processes from potassium nitrate or extracted from natural deposits, as it also occurs as a natural mineral. It is a white powder effective against the Clostridium botulinum bacterium. In the stomach, in the presence of proteins, nitrites form nitrosamines, substances with potential carcinogenic properties. They also react with hemoglobin, destroying it. The hemoglobin in children is much more sensitive to nitrites than in adults, which is why children should not consume products containing this additive. It is recommended to carefully read food labels.
Why is Potassium nitrite added to food?
Potassium nitrite (E249) is a preservative commonly found in: Animal-based products.
Permitted quantity: The acceptable daily intake for human consumption is up to 0.06 mg/kg body weight, which equals 1.2 mg for a person weighing 20 kg. The amount of 1.2 mg of potassium nitrite can be found in 8 grams of meat product.
Is Potassium nitrite banned anywhere?
✓ Not currently banned in the EU or known to be restricted in other countries.
Is Potassium nitrite okay for kids?
Not permitted in foods intended for infants and young children.
Common foods that contain Potassium nitrite
- Animal-based products
How to spot Potassium nitrite on labels
Look for any of these names in the ingredients list:
- E249
- Potassium nitrite
Common misspellings to watch for:
- pota$sium nitrite
- potassium nltrite
- potas$ium nitrite
- potassium nitrlte
- potdssium nitrite
- dotassium nitrite
- potassium nitrite
- potasslum nitrite
Better alternatives
• Can cause toxic reactions when consumed in excess, such as headaches, nausea, and dizziness. • Excessive consumption can affect the cardiovascular system, causing low blood pressure and breathing difficulties. • Not recommended for individuals with cardiovascular or respiratory conditions, such as high blood pressure or asthma. • Can interfere with oxygen absorption in the blood, making it dangerous for people with blood disorders, such as anemia. • Pregnant women and young children should avoid exposure to high levels of nitrites due to risks to fetal development.
Also known as
- pota$sium nitrite
- potassium nltrite
- potas$ium nitrite
- potassium nitrlte
- potdssium nitrite
- dotassium nitrite
- potassium nitrite
- potasslum nitrite
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Frequently asked questions about Potassium nitrite
- Is Potassium nitrite safe to eat?
- Potassium nitrite has a harm level of 2 out of 3. Moderate concern.
- Is Potassium nitrite banned anywhere?
- Potassium nitrite is not currently banned in the EU or known to be restricted in other countries.
- Is Potassium nitrite safe for children?
- Not permitted in foods intended for infants and young children.
- How do I spot Potassium nitrite on a food label?
- Look for E249, Potassium nitrite in the ingredients list. It may also appear as: pota$sium nitrite, potassium nltrite, potas$ium nitrite.
Ingredients change. Always check the actual product label before purchasing. Information on this page is for educational purposes only.