Sodium Nitrite
High ConcernAlso known as
The concern
IARC classifies processed meat containing nitrites as a Group 1 carcinogen (causes colorectal cancer). Nitrites form carcinogenic nitrosamines during cooking.
What to look for on labels
This ingredient may appear under any of the following names or codes on product labels:
- Sodium Nitrite
- sodium nitrite
- e250
- nitrite
Commonly found in
Processed meats, canned foods, packaged snacks, bread, ready meals
Other preservatives to know about
Sodium Nitrate
HIGHConverts to nitrite in the body; linked to colorectal cancer risk when consumed in processed meats.
Sodium Benzoate
MEDIUMReacts with Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) in drinks to form benzene, an IARC Group 1 carcinogen.
Butylparaben
HIGHEndocrine disruptor that mimics oestrogen.
Propylparaben
HIGHData sourced from IARC, FDA, EFSA, WHO and EWG public data. For informational purposes only. This does not constitute medical or legal advice.