Potassium nitrate

Potassium nitrate (CAS 7757-79-1) is an inorganic salt composed of potassium and nitrate ions, commercially known as saltpeter or nitre and approved as food additive E 252. It occurs naturally as a mineral deposit and is also produced synthetically for industrial applications.

In food processing, potassium nitrate acts as a curing agent for cured meats by inhibiting Clostridium botulinum growth and stabilising the characteristic pink colour through myoglobin conversion. In agriculture, it serves as a soluble nitrogen and potassium fertiliser, delivering both macronutrients directly to crops via fertigation systems. It is also used in pyrotechnics and mining as an oxidiser in explosive formulations.

Potassium nitrate is available in food-grade (E 252), technical, and agricultural grades, supplied as crystalline powder or prilled form. It complies with EU food additive regulation EC 1333/2008 and is subject to REACH registration. Packaging typically includes 25 kg bags and bulk options.