Potassium Nitrate
Also known as: E252
Potassium nitrate is converted to nitrite in cured meats. IARC has classified processed meat (which typically contains nitrite/nitrate) as Group 1 (carcinogenic to humans), with strong evidence for colorectal cancer.
What it is
Potassium nitrate (KNO3, E252), an inorganic salt used as a curing agent in meats and historically in food preservation.
Curing agent and preservative in cured meats; antimicrobial against Clostridium botulinum (after conversion to nitrite).
Why it's flagged
- processed meat consumption is IARC Group 1 carcinogen
- N-nitrosamine formation
- ADI exceedance possible in children
- methemoglobinemia risk in infants
What regulators actually say
"An ADI of 3.7 mg nitrate ion/kg bw per day was established... estimated dietary exposure to nitrate from food additive uses alone... may exceed the ADI for children."
"Processed meat was classified as carcinogenic to humans (Group 1)."
Regulatory status
United States — FDA
Permitted as a curing agent in specific meat products under USDA/FSIS rules; FDA permits in specific applications.
European Union — EFSA
Approved as E252 with ADI 3.7 mg nitrate ion/kg bw/day; intake by children may exceed ADI.
Scan it before you buy it
Get Ube on iOS or Android — point at any barcode, see what's actually in there.
Get the app