Nitrite

usgb/ˈnaɪtraɪt/
noun

A kind of salt or ester from nitrous acid.

Sodium nitrite is often used in the curing process for ham.
Visual representation of "nitrite" - A kind of salt or ester from nitrous acid.

Often appears as...

  • sodium nitrite
  • potassium nitrite

Usage tips

Technical

Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "nitrite"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Food Preservation

Nitrites prevent bacterial growth in foods like ham and bacon.

Illustration for Food Preservation
To ensure the bacon is safe to eat, nitrite is added during processing.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Technical Vocabulary

The use of 'nitrite' is often technical, linked with chemistry or food sciences.

Illustration for Technical Vocabulary
In our chemistry class, we learned how nitrite acts in preserving meats.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Confusion Alert

Don't confuse 'nitrite' with 'nitrate'; they are similar but different chemicals.

Illustration for Confusion Alert
Although both are used in curing, sodium nitrite and sodium nitrate have different properties.
Visual representation of the word "Nitrite"

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