E249- POTASSIUM NITRITE
Potassium nitrite is a synthetically produced preservative, which comes as a white powder; it is used by the food industry as a preservative, in particular against Clostridium botulinum (bacterium that can cause botulism) in meat and fish products.
Potassium nitrite is mostly added to canned meats, sausages, canned fish and cheeses.
It can hinder the transport of oxygen in the blood by also reacting with other substances (such as nitrosamines), also becoming toxic.
Its consumption in products administered to children under the age of 1 year is not recommended.
It can cause hyperactivity, asthma, insomnia, nausea, dizziness, low blood pressure, cancer.
Not recommended for consumption higher than the daily dose.
ADI DOSE: 0.06-0.1mg per kg of body weight.
