Sodium Nitrite

Food Preservative: Sodium Nitrite is primarily used as a food preservative (E250) to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria, particularly Clostridium botulinum, in processed meats, such as bacon, ham, sausages, and hot dogs. It also helps maintain the meat's pink color. In cured meats, it contributes to the characteristic flavor and aroma. It is used in conjunction with other curing agents, such as sodium chloride (salt) and sodium erythorbate, to form curing mixtures.

Industrial Processes: Sodium Nitrite is employed in various industrial processes, including as an oxidizing agent and corrosion inhibitor. It is used in the manufacture of dyes and other chemicals. In some cases, it can serve as a reducing agent.

Cooling and Heat-Transfer Fluids: Sodium Nitrite is used in some heat-transfer fluids and antifreeze formulations to provide corrosion protection for metal components.

Water Treatment: It may be used in water treatment processes to inhibit the growth of certain microorganisms and control corrosion.

Medical Applications: In medicine, sodium nitrite can be used in emergency situations to treat cyanide poisoning. It is used in the preparation of some pharmaceuticals.

Analytical Chemistry: It is employed as a reagent in certain chemical analysis and laboratory experiments.

Color Fixation: In some dyeing and printing processes, sodium nitrite can be used to fix or enhance colors.