Sodium Nitrite - What is it?

What is Sodium Nitrite?

Sodium Nitrite is a white crystalline powder used in many industrial processes, in meat curing, colouring, and preserving, and as a reagent in analytical chemistry techniques. Sodium nitrite is used therapeutically as an antidote for cyanide poisoning. Additionally, the EU approves it for use as a food additive. As such, they are used in meat, fish and cheese products to hinder microbial growth, in particular, to protect against botulism, as well as to keep meat red and enhance its flavour.

The manufacture of Sodium Nitrite occurs by reacting sodium hydroxide with nitric acid. The reaction produces sodium nitrate, which is then converted into sodium nitrite by adding sulfuric acid before heating the solution. This combination is then filtered and crystallized to produce Sodium Nitrite.

In the food industry, sodium nitrite is used as a preservative and colouring agent to inhibit bacterial growth and preserve cured meats, such as bacon and ham, whether preserving colour or preventing the growth of bacteria in canned meat and fish products.

Beverages use sodium nitrite to prevent the growth of bacteria and fungi in fruit juices and alcoholic beverages. Additionally, it is a reagent of various pharmaceuticals, including antibiotics and analgesics. Finally, Sodium Nitrite is in cosmetic products as a preservative and colourant.

Industrially, it is a corrosion inhibitor in metalworking fluids and cooling systems, whilst also in the manufacture of rubber products and as a component in the production of dyes and pigments.