What is E249?
E249 is Potassium Nitrite — a synthetic curing salt, used as a preservative to help prevent spoilage by stopping the growth of bacteria, moulds and yeasts.
What is E249 (Potassium Nitrite)?
E249 is the E-number for potassium nitrite, one of the preservatives group of food additives (E200–E299). Additives in this group prevent spoilage by stopping the growth of bacteria, moulds and yeasts. A synthetic curing salt. Like every E-number, E249 has been evaluated and authorised for use in food in the European Union — the 'E' literally stands for Europe, and a number is only granted after a safety assessment. That authorisation doesn't mean every additive suits every diet or that all concerns are settled, which is why we break down the safety, vegan, vegetarian and halal status of E249 in detail below.
Where is E249 found?
E249 is typically used in soft drinks, dried fruit, processed meats, sauces, baked goods and wine. You'll find it listed in the ingredients either by its E-number (E249) or by its full name, potassium nitrite. Common foods that may contain E249 include:
- Soft drinks
- Dried fruit
- Processed meats
- Sauces
- Baked goods and wine
Full guide: foods containing E249 and how to spot it on labels →
Is E249 safe?
E249 is approved for use in the EU, UK and US at regulated levels, but some concerns or conditions apply. Nitrites and nitrates in processed meat can form nitrosamines, and the WHO classifies processed meat as carcinogenic to humans — the main reason health bodies advise limiting cured meats. For most people, normal dietary exposure to E249 is not considered harmful.
EFSA status: Authorised in the EU — acceptable daily intake (ADI) or conditions of use apply
Source: European Food Safety Authority
Is E249 vegan?
E249 is vegan. A synthetic curing salt, with no animal involvement in standard production.
Full vegan status guide for E249 →Is E249 halal?
E249 is halal. A synthetic curing salt, with no haram source involved.
Full halal status guide for E249 →Frequently Asked Questions
What is E249 in food?
E249 is Potassium Nitrite — a synthetic curing salt, used as a preservative to help prevent spoilage by stopping the growth of bacteria, moulds and yeasts.
Is E249 safe to eat?
E249 is approved at regulated levels in the EU, UK and US, but some concerns exist — see the safety section above. Most people can consume it in normal amounts without harm.
Is E249 vegan?
E249 is vegan. A synthetic curing salt, with no animal involvement in standard production.
Is E249 halal?
E249 is halal. A synthetic curing salt, with no haram source involved.
Also check: is this ingredient safe for cats? · safe for dogs? · check the calorie content of foods containing this
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Additive data sourced from Open Food Facts (ODbL licence) and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA).