Definition

Noun: - A chemical compound (NaNO₂) used as a preservative and color fixative: Sodium nitrite is an inorganic salt commonly added to processed meats and fish to prevent bacterial growth (especially botulism), delay spoilage, and maintain a pink or red color.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • Sodium nitrite is a key ingredient in many cured meats like bacon and hot dogs.
  • The manufacturer added sodium nitrite to the fish product to extend its shelf life.

Advanced Usage

• Implication in food safety and health: While effective for preservation, sodium nitrite can react with amines in food to form nitrosamines, which are suspected carcinogens.
  • The study examined the potential risks associated with sodium nitrite in the diet.

Variants and Related Words

• Nitrite (n): A salt or ester of nitrous acid, containing the anion NO₂⁻. Sodium nitrite is a specific type of nitrite salt.
• Sodium nitrate (NaNO₃): A related compound also used in food preservation, but with different chemical properties and uses.

Synonyms

• Preservative E250: Its designated number in the food additive numbering system.
• Curing salt: A common term, though curing salt is often a mixture containing sodium nitrite and sodium chloride (table salt).

Related Phrases/Compounds

• Cured meat: A type of meat preserved using agents like sodium nitrite.
  • Traditional cured meats often rely on sodium nitrite for safety and color.

Noun

1. nitrite used to preserve and color food especially in meat and fish products; implicated in the formation of suspected carcinogens