What is E251?
E251 is Sodium Nitrate — a mineral curing salt, mined or produced synthetically, used as a preservative to help prevent spoilage by stopping the growth of bacteria, moulds and yeasts.
What is E251 (Sodium Nitrate)?
E251 is the E-number for sodium nitrate, 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 mineral curing salt, mined or produced synthetically. Like every E-number, E251 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 E251 in detail below.
Where is E251 found?
E251 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 (E251) or by its full name, sodium nitrate. Common foods that may contain E251 include:
- Soft drinks
- Dried fruit
- Processed meats
- Sauces
- Baked goods and wine
Full guide: foods containing E251 and how to spot it on labels →
E251 is often searched by its common name — see also: Is Sodium Nitrate safe?
Is E251 safe?
E251 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 E251 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 E251 vegan?
E251 is vegan. A mineral curing salt, mined or produced synthetically, with no animal involvement in standard production.
Full vegan status guide for E251 →Is E251 halal?
E251 is halal. A mineral curing salt, mined or produced synthetically, with no haram source involved.
Full halal status guide for E251 →Frequently Asked Questions
What is E251 in food?
E251 is Sodium Nitrate — a mineral curing salt, mined or produced synthetically, used as a preservative to help prevent spoilage by stopping the growth of bacteria, moulds and yeasts.
Is E251 safe to eat?
E251 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 E251 vegan?
E251 is vegan. A mineral curing salt, mined or produced synthetically, with no animal involvement in standard production.
Is E251 halal?
E251 is halal. A mineral curing salt, mined or produced synthetically, 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).