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E249PreservativeElevated concern
Potassium Nitrite
In plain words
The short version
Potassium analog of sodium nitrite — a curing agent for meats with the same nitrosamine concern.
Why we flag it
A curing salt that keeps meat pink and blocks botulism, but it can form nitrosamines — compounds linked to cancer — especially under high heat. That real benefit-vs-risk trade-off is why we flag it.
Safety profile
ADI of 0–0.07 mg/kg body weight (combined nitrites). Forms N-nitrosamines (probable human carcinogens, IARC group 2A) on reaction with amines under acid or heat — the same chemistry as sodium nitrite. Required residual is the minimum needed for safety: the WHO position is that nitrites are necessary against botulism but exposure should be minimized.
The detail
Educational information only. Not medical or dietary advice.