Nitrites & Nitrates
E249–E252
E249, E250, E251, E252, nitrite, nitrites, nitrate, nitrates, potassium nitrite, sodium nitrite, sodium nitrate, potassium nitrate
What it is
A group of curing and preservative additives comprising potassium nitrite (E249), sodium nitrite (E250), sodium nitrate (E251) and potassium nitrate (E252).
Why BOTIA flags it
BOTIA groups E249–E252 because labels may use either the E-number or the chemical name. Their authorised uses and maximum levels are product-specific; detecting a declared nitrite or nitrate is not the same as estimating exposure or health risk.
BOTIA CAN
- Detect E249–E252 and their corresponding sodium or potassium nitrite/nitrate names.
- Show that these are regulated preservatives with use conditions that vary by food category.
BOTIA CANNOT
- Determine the amount added, residual amount or total dietary exposure from the ingredient list.
- Infer an individual health outcome from the presence of a declared nitrite or nitrate.