Sodium nitrite
Learn what Sodium nitrite (E250) is, why it's added to food, whether it's safe, and which products contain it.
Moderate concernWhat is Sodium nitrite?
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 effective against the bacterium Clostridium botulinum. In the stomach, in the presence of proteins, nitrites form 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 nitrite added to food?
Sodium nitrite (E250) is a preservative commonly found in: Sterilized preserved meat products.
Permitted quantity: Maximum daily intake per body: 0.06 mg/kg
Is Sodium nitrite banned anywhere?
⚠ Restricted in some countries (not banned in the EU)
Is Sodium nitrite okay for kids?
Not allowed in foods intended for infants and young children.
Common foods that contain Sodium nitrite
- Sterilized preserved meat products
How to spot Sodium nitrite on labels
Look for any of these names in the ingredients list:
- E250
- Sodium nitrite
Common misspellings to watch for:
- sodium nitrite
- sodlum nitrite
- sodium nltrite
- $odium nitrite
- sodium nitrlte
Better alternatives
• E250 is banned in Norway, Sweden, Canada, and partially in Germany. • Excessive consumption of sodium nitrite can lead to the formation of nitrosamines, carcinogenic substances. • May affect blood oxygenation and cause methemoglobinemia, a condition that reduces the blood's ability to transport oxygen. • Individuals with cardiovascular conditions or hypertension should avoid excessive consumption. • Not recommended for pregnant women, children, or infants due to health risks.
Also known as
- sodium nitrite
- sodlum nitrite
- sodium nltrite
- $odium nitrite
- sodium nitrlte
Scan products with BioBrief
Not sure if a product contains Sodium nitrite? BioBrief scans the barcode and instantly shows you every additive in the ingredients list — including E250 — with a plain-language explanation.
Frequently asked questions about Sodium nitrite
- Is Sodium nitrite safe to eat?
- Sodium nitrite has a harm level of 2 out of 3. Moderate concern.
- Is Sodium nitrite banned anywhere?
- Sodium nitrite is not banned in the EU but is restricted in some countries.
- Is Sodium nitrite safe for children?
- Not allowed in foods intended for infants and young children.
- How do I spot Sodium nitrite on a food label?
- Look for E250, Sodium nitrite in the ingredients list. It may also appear as: sodium nitrite, sodlum nitrite, sodium nltrite.
Ingredients change. Always check the actual product label before purchasing. Information on this page is for educational purposes only.