Disclaimer: This database provides factual regulatory information compiled from official government sources. It does not constitute medical, nutritional, or safety advice. Regulatory status varies by country and may change. Always refer to your local regulatory authority for the most current information.
Potassium Nitrite
E249 | INS 249
Names & Identifiers
- E Number
- E249
- INS Number
- 249
- CAS Number
- 7758-09-0
- Scientific Name
- Potassium nitrite
- Japanese Name
- 亜硝酸カリウム
- Also Known As
- KNO2
Regulation Status by Country
European Union
Status: approved | Max level: varies by food category mg/kg
Restricted to specific meat products; maximum residual levels 50-150 mg/kg
View EFSA Opinion →United States
Status: approved | Approved for specific uses
Limited to cured meats; maximum 200 ppm
Japan
Status: approved | Category: 指定添加物
Strictly regulated for use in meat products
Australia / New Zealand
Status: approved | Code: 249
Canada
Status: approved
What is Potassium Nitrite?
Classification
Function: preservative
Type: inorganic
Source: synthetic
How It's Made
Method: chemical synthesis
Produced by reduction of potassium nitrate or by absorption of nitrogen oxides in potassium hydroxide solution.
Uses Beyond Food
- Pharmaceutical: Used as a vasodilator (though sodium nitrite is more common).
- Industrial: Used in dyeing and textile industry.
Commonly Found In
Potassium Nitrite is typically used in:
Note: This list shows typical product categories and may vary by brand and region. Always check product labels for actual ingredients.
Safety Evaluations (Official)
ADI = Acceptable Daily Intake (mg per kg of body weight per day)
Research & Official Documents
Official evaluations and scientific research:
Search research databases:
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Potassium Nitrite (E249)?
Potassium Nitrite (E249) is a preservative used in food products. It is inorganic and synthetic. A synthetic salt not found naturally in significant quantities. Used primarily in cured meats.
What is the ADI for Potassium Nitrite?
The Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI) for Potassium Nitrite is 0–0.07 mg/kg bw/day (for nitrite ion) as established by JECFA (Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives). ADI represents the amount that can be consumed daily over a lifetime without appreciable health risk.
What foods contain Potassium Nitrite?
Potassium Nitrite is used in various food categories including Meat preparations, Meat products. It is used as a preservative in these products.
Related Additives
Other preservatives in our database: