Sodium nitrite

Sodium nitrite is a commonly used food ingredient that helps preserve and add flavour to various processed meats like bacon, ham, and sausages. It is a synthetic compound rather than a naturally occurring ingredient, typically produced in a controlled environment to ensure purity and consistency. Sodium nitrite plays a crucial role in preventing bacterial growth in processed meats, which can extend their shelf life and maintain their appealing pink colour.

During the production of sodium nitrite, nitrogen, oxygen, and sodium are combined to form this additive. This process usually takes place in a laboratory setting where precise measurements and conditions are maintained to create a high-quality product. Once the sodium nitrite is produced, it is carefully added to processed meats in regulated amounts to ensure both safety and effectiveness in preserving the products.

When you see sodium nitrite listed on food labels, it's there primarily as a preservative to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria, particularly in processed meats like hot dogs, salami, and deli meats. While this ingredient has been linked to potential health concerns in large amounts, the levels typically used in food processing are considered safe by regulatory bodies. By including sodium nitrite in these products, manufacturers can ensure their meats stay fresh for longer periods, maintaining quality and taste for consumers.

Foods in the CalorieStar database containing Sodium nitrite

Sainsbury's Air Dried Ham Lean Finely Sliced, Taste the Difference
Sainsbury's Ardennes Pâté
Tesco BBQ Chicken, Bacon & Cheese Sandwich
Asda BLT Pasta Salad
M&S BLT Sandwich
Sainsbury's British Honey Roast Ham Slices
Sainsbury's British Pork Chipolata Sausage & Bacon Wraps Pigs in Blankets, Butchers Choice
Sainsbury's British Pork Chipolatas Wrapped in Bacon, Taste the Difference
Sainsbury's Brussel Sprouts with Bacon & Thyme Butter, Taste the Difference
Sainsbury's Brussels Pâté

Sainsbury's Brussels Pâté, Be Good To Yourself
Sainsbury's Brussels Spreadable Pâté
Tesco Chicken & Bacon Mayonnaise Sandwich
Ginsters Chicken & Bacon Pasty
Tesco Chicken & Bacon Sandwich
Ginsters Chicken & Bacon Slice
Asda Chicken & Bacon Slices
Tesco Chicken & Bacon Sub
Tesco Chicken & Bacon Wrap
Tesco Chicken & Chorizo Sandwich
Sainsbury's Chicken & King Prawn Paella, Taste the Difference
Asda Chicken and Bacon Bakes
Tesco Chicken Bacon & Lettuce Sandwich
Chicago Town Chicken Club Deep Dish Pizzas
Herta Chicken Frankfurter Hot Dogs