What is E250? Sodium Nitrite Explained
As an Amazon Associate and AWIN affiliate partner we earn from qualifying purchases — at no extra cost to you. Disclosure ›
E250 is Sodium Nitrite — the preservative in cured meats like bacon and ham, responsible for their pink colour — and a reason to moderate processed meat intake.
What is E250 (Sodium Nitrite)?
E250 is Sodium Nitrite, a food additive classified as a preservative that extend shelf life by preventing microbial growth. The preservative in cured meats like bacon and ham, responsible for their pink colour — and a reason to moderate processed meat intake. You'll find it in bread and baked goods, wine and cider, cured meats and many other packaged foods. Sodium Nitrite is one of the better-known food additives and appears regularly in label-reading guides and dietary discussions. Like every E-number, E250 has been authorised for use in food following an EFSA safety evaluation — though authorisation doesn't mean concern-free, as the safety section below explains.
Where is E250 found?
E250 (Sodium Nitrite) is found in bread and baked goods, wine and cider, cured meats, cheese, pickles and condiments, soft drinks.
- bread and baked goods
- wine and cider
- cured meats
- cheese
- pickles and condiments
- soft drinks
Also known as: Sodium Nitrite
Is E250 safe?
E250 is authorised in the EU and UK but carries genuine concerns. as a nitrite/nitrate used in cured meats, E250 is one reason the NHS advises limiting processed meat during pregnancy. For most people consuming Sodium Nitrite in typical quantities, health effects are unlikely — but the caution flag reflects either active scientific debate, mandatory warning labels, allergen status, or conditions attached to its authorisation.
EFSA opinion: Sodium Nitrite — status Some concerns.
Check the calorie content of foods containing E250. If you’re pregnant, see our pregnancy food safety guide. Taking supplements? Check drug and supplement interactions.
Cleaner alternatives to E250
79% protein clean-label snack
MORiSH Pork Chicharrónes
Prefer snacks with no artificial colours, preservatives or sweeteners? MORiSH pork chicharrónes are 79% protein, zero carbs and have a short, readable ingredient list.
Circle DNA Premium Test
Find out how your body responds to foods and additives — nutrition, sensitivities and 500+ reports from one at-home DNA test.
E250 FAQs
What is E250 in food?
E250 is Sodium Nitrite — the preservative in cured meats like bacon and ham, responsible for their pink colour — and a reason to moderate processed meat intake.
Is E250 safe to eat?
E250 is authorised in the EU and UK but carries genuine concerns. as a nitrite/nitrate used in cured meats, E250 is one reason the NHS advises limiting processed meat during pregnancy. For most people
Is E250 vegan?
E250 (Sodium Nitrite) is vegan. It is derived from synthetic; cured meats, with no animal involvement in standard food production.
Is E250 halal?
E250 (Sodium Nitrite) is halal. It is derived from synthetic; cured meats, which involves no haram sources.
Related Preservatives additives
Also check: safe for cats? · safe for dogs? · calorie checker · medication interactions
Data: Open Food Facts (ODbL) · EFSA