Potassium nitrite

Potassium nitrite (CAS 7758-09-0), also designated E249 in food regulation, is an inorganic salt used as a preservative and curing agent in food and pharmaceutical applications.

Where is Potassium nitrite used?

• Processed meat: inhibits microbial growth and stabilizes color, a direct alternative to sodium nitrite where potassium-based formulations are required
• Cured and cooked meat products such as ham, bacon and sausages: suppresses Clostridium botulinum growth and fixes the characteristic pink color
• Pharmaceutical manufacturing: intermediate or excipient in drug formulations requiring controlled nitrite activity
• Reduced-sodium food formulations: selected over sodium nitrite to lower overall sodium content while maintaining safety standards
• Fish and poultry preservation systems under regulatory frameworks permit its use at defined maximum levels.

Good to know: Not to be confused with sodium nitrite; potassium-based formulations may be chosen where reduced sodium content is required.

Commercial specifications

• Purity typically 99% or above
• Food-grade material conforming to E249 specifications is the primary commercial form