About Sodium Nitrate

Sodium nitrate, also known as Chile saltpeter, cubic niter, nitratine, soda niter and sodium saltpeter is a chemical compound found in large natural deposits. Its physical appearance and most of its chemical properties are very similar to potassium nitrate. Although found in nature, you can also synthetically produce sodium nitrate as a byproduct during chlorine production.

Uses in the Food Industry

According to "Chemical Process and Design handbook," sodium nitrate can preserve the red color of meats and some types of fish. When you add sodium nitrate while preparing these foods, the food retains its red color even after cooking or processing. Further, sodium nitrate can inhibit the growth of the bacteria Clostridium botulinum, a highly dangerous microorganism when present in food products. Additionally, sodium nitrate helps to maintain the overall freshness of foods by slowing the development of rancid flavors or odors.

Other Uses

Besides serving as a preservative for foods, sodium nitrate is an ingredient found in many other products including fertilizers and pyrotechnics. In medicine, sodium nitrate can function as an intestinal relaxant and even as an antidote to some poisons including hydrogen and cyanide sulfide. Additionally, you can use sodium nitrate to dilate blood vessels and treat certain lung disorders in children.

Allergies and Symptoms

According to an article that appeared in the March 2004 issue of "Current Allergy and Clinical Immunology," allergies to sodium nitrate are uncommon, given that only 0.12 to 2 percent of the population has adverse reactions to food additives like sodium nitrate. Nevertheless, food-related hypersensitivity is difficult to manage, and you should take precaution when consuming products with sodium nitrate if you suffer from asthma or if you frequently experience allergic rashes and hives. Symptoms of an allergic reaction to sodium nitrate include a runny or stuffy nose and a sore throat, asthma attacks and skin rash.

Considerations

If you have a known allergy to sodium nitrate, you should avoid all processed meats such as pepperoni, salami, hot dogs, ham, bacon and bologna. Instead, you should consume fresh meats like fresh ground beef, turkey or chicken. Further, some manufacturers offer nitrate-free versions of foods that normally contain sodium nitrate. Although a bit more expensive, you can find a selection of foods without sodium nitrate at most natural food stores and health food stores.