Sodium Nitrite Powder (โซเดียมไนไตรท์ ผงเพรก)

Definition and Description

Sodium nitrite is an inorganic compound with the chemical formula NaNO₂. It is commonly known as Sodium Nitrite Powder or "curing salt," especially when used in food processing. The E number for sodium nitrite is E250, which classifies it as a food additive approved by food safety authorities worldwide.

Sodium nitrite appears as a white to slightly yellowish powder that is highly soluble in water. It is stable under normal storage conditions and is widely used in various industrial and food processing applications.

Sources and Processing

Sodium nitrite does not occur naturally in significant amounts but is manufactured through synthetic chemical processes. The most common method of production involves:

1. Oxidation of ammonia to form nitric oxide.
2. Conversion of nitrogen oxides into nitric acid.
3. Neutralization of the resulting acid with sodium carbonate or sodium hydroxide to form sodium nitrite.

This process ensures the purity required for food-grade sodium nitrite.

Uses in Food Products

Sodium nitrite (โซเดียมไนไตรท์ ผงเพรก) is widely used in the food industry as a preservative and color fixative. It helps in:

1. Preventing the growth of harmful bacteria, especially *Clostridium botulinum*.
2. Enhancing and maintaining the red or pink color of cured meats.
3. Contributing to the characteristic flavor of processed meats.

Foods commonly made with sodium nitrite include:

1. Ham
2. Bacon
3. Hot dogs
4. Sausages
5. Corned beef
6. Cured salami
7. Deli meats
8. Luncheon meats

Benefits of Sodium Nitrite Powder

Sodium nitrite, when used appropriately and within regulated limits, provides several health-related benefits:

1. Prevention of foodborne illnesses** – Protects against bacteria that can cause severe food poisoning.
2. Extended shelf life – Reduces spoilage, leading to better food safety and reduced waste.
3. Preservation of nutrients – Helps retain the protein and iron quality in meats during storage.
4. Color and flavor retention – Maintains food appeal, encouraging better consumption of protein-rich food.
5. Support for nitric oxide production – Plays a role in the body’s production of nitric oxide, which helps regulate blood pressure and improve circulation.

References:

[1] https://precision.fda.gov/ginas/app/ui/substances/M0KG633D4F [Accessed 11 June 2025]
[2] https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/compound/Sodium-nitrite [Accessed 11 June 2025]
[3] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sodium_nitrite [Accessed 11 June 2025]