Sodium nitrate
Learn what Sodium nitrate (E251) is, why it's added to food, whether it's safe, and which products contain it.
Low concernWhat is Sodium nitrate?
A food additive from the category of preservatives, produced through chemical processes from sodium nitrate or extracted from natural deposits, as it is also a natural mineral. It is a white powder used to prevent discoloration of products. Nitrates, although harmless in the stomach, in the presence of proteins, form nitrites, which then convert to nitrosamines, substances with potential carcinogenic properties. They also react with hemoglobin, destroying it. Children's hemoglobin is much more sensitive to nitrites than that of adults, which is why children should not consume products containing this additive. It is recommended to carefully read food labels.
Why is Sodium nitrate added to food?
Sodium nitrate (E251) is a preservative commonly found in: Raw meat products.
Permitted quantity: The acceptable daily intake for humans is up to 3.7 mg/kg body weight.
Is Sodium nitrate banned anywhere?
✓ Not currently banned in the EU or known to be restricted in other countries.
Is Sodium nitrate okay for kids?
Not allowed in foods intended for infants and young children.
Common foods that contain Sodium nitrate
- Raw meat products
How to spot Sodium nitrate on labels
Look for any of these names in the ingredients list:
- E251
- Sodium nitrate
Common misspellings to watch for:
- sodium nitrate
- $odium nitrate
- sodium nitrdte
- sodlum nitrate
- sodium nltrate
Better alternatives
• Excessive consumption of sodium nitrate can lead to the formation of nitrosamines, carcinogenic substances. • Not recommended for individuals with heart problems or hypertension. • May cause allergic reactions or gastric irritation in sensitive individuals. • Not recommended for children or pregnant women due to health risks.
Also known as
- sodium nitrate
- $odium nitrate
- sodium nitrdte
- sodlum nitrate
- sodium nltrate
Scan products with BioBrief
Not sure if a product contains Sodium nitrate? BioBrief scans the barcode and instantly shows you every additive in the ingredients list — including E251 — with a plain-language explanation.
Frequently asked questions about Sodium nitrate
- Is Sodium nitrate safe to eat?
- Sodium nitrate has a harm level of 1 out of 3. Low concern.
- Is Sodium nitrate banned anywhere?
- Sodium nitrate is not currently banned in the EU or known to be restricted in other countries.
- Is Sodium nitrate safe for children?
- Not allowed in foods intended for infants and young children.
- How do I spot Sodium nitrate on a food label?
- Look for E251, Sodium nitrate in the ingredients list. It may also appear as: sodium nitrate, $odium nitrate, sodium nitrdte.
Ingredients change. Always check the actual product label before purchasing. Information on this page is for educational purposes only.