Sodium nitrite (E250)

• Food ! Caution
• Cosmetics ! Caution

Reviewed 7 October 2026 by an AI reviewer working to Yasno’s written review rules

What is Sodium nitrite (E250)?

Sodium nitrite is a curing salt that keeps ham and bacon pink and stops dangerous bacteria. It can turn into nitrosamines, which cause cancer in animals, though it isn't proven nitrite does this in people. Properly made food stays within safe limits, though children who eat lots of cured meat can slightly exceed them.

What does Sodium nitrite do in cosmetics?

In cosmetics, small amounts of sodium nitrite stop rust, for example inside spray cans. On unbroken skin it's unlikely to cause harm, though little research looks at cosmetics specifically. The real risk is a badly made product where it forms nitrosamines, which is why EU law limits how it's used.

What is Yasno’s verdict on Sodium nitrite?

Yasno’s verdict on Sodium nitrite: In food: Caution. Some evidence of a concern, it depends on the amount, or it is genuinely worth knowing. A Caution always has a specific, sourced reason. In cosmetics: Caution. Some evidence of a concern, it depends on the amount, or it is genuinely worth knowing. A Caution always has a specific, sourced reason.

How verdicts work

Is Sodium nitrite allowed in the EU?

EU status of Sodium nitrite: In food: Listed in Yasno’s EU regulatory data, with no further details recorded. In cosmetics: Restricted in cosmetics (limits and conditions apply). Conditions and limits come from the regulation cited below. Yasno summarises them and does not replace the legal text.

What else is it called?

• Nitrous acid, sodium salt
• Nitrite, sodium
• Erinitrit

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