What is E252?
E252 is Potassium Nitrate (Saltpetre) — 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 E252 (Potassium Nitrate)?
E252 is the E-number for potassium 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, E252 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 E252 in detail below.
Where is E252 found?
E252 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 (E252) or by its full name, potassium nitrate. Common foods that may contain E252 include:
- Soft drinks
- Dried fruit
- Processed meats
- Sauces
- Baked goods and wine
Full guide: foods containing E252 and how to spot it on labels →
E252 is often searched by its common name — see also: Is Potassium Nitrate safe?
Is E252 safe?
E252 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 E252 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 E252 vegan?
E252 is vegan. A mineral curing salt, mined or produced synthetically, with no animal involvement in standard production.
Full vegan status guide for E252 →Is E252 halal?
E252 is halal. A mineral curing salt, mined or produced synthetically, with no haram source involved.
Full halal status guide for E252 →Frequently Asked Questions
What is E252 in food?
E252 is Potassium Nitrate (Saltpetre) — 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 E252 safe to eat?
E252 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 E252 vegan?
E252 is vegan. A mineral curing salt, mined or produced synthetically, with no animal involvement in standard production.
Is E252 halal?
E252 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).