Natriumit

Natriumit, more commonly known in English as sodium nitrite, is an inorganic compound with the chemical formula NaNO2. It is the salt of nitrous acid and appears as a pale white to slightly yellowish crystalline solid that is soluble in water. At room temperature it is relatively stable but acts as an oxidizing agent; it decomposes upon heating and reacts with acids to release nitric oxide and nitrogen dioxide.

Industrial production and handling

Sodium nitrite is produced on an industrial scale by reducing sodium nitrate under controlled conditions, followed by purification. It is typically stored in sealed containers, protected from moisture, heat, acids, and organic materials to prevent hazardous reactions. It is incompatible with strong acids, reducing agents, and many organic substances, as it can react violently or form toxic gases.

Applications

Sodium nitrite has two main domains of use:

- Food preservation: It is widely used as a curing agent in processed meats (often labeled as an additive such as E249) to inhibit the growth of bacteria, primarily Clostridium botulinum, and to help maintain a characteristic pink color in products like ham, bacon, and sausages.

- Chemical and industrial uses: It serves as an oxidizing reagent in organic synthesis and as an intermediate in various chemical processes.

Safety and regulation

Exposure to sodium nitrite can be hazardous. Ingestion or high levels of exposure can cause methemoglobinemia, a condition that reduces the blood’s ability to carry oxygen. It may also form potentially carcinogenic nitrosamines when it reacts with certain amines under specific conditions. Regulations limit its use and permissible concentrations, particularly in food products, to mitigate health risks. Proper handling includes glove and eye protection in industrial settings and compliance with regulatory guidelines for food additives and occupational safety.