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Preservative (sodium nitrate [E251])

Sodium nitrate is a preservative used to inhibit microbial growth and preserve color in processed foods.

Mineral or nutrientUpdated May 20, 2026
Health score-3.0
-5Poor5

Water guidelines

Legal limit
Not specified
Health guideline
Not specified

Food and supplement guidelines

Legal limit
Not specified
Health guideline
Not specified

Risks

Potential formation of carcinogenic nitrosamines under certain conditions, regulatory limits on use

Benefits

Prevents microbial spoilage, extends shelf life of processed meat products

References

Waters containing Preservative (sodium nitrate [E251])

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