The Lab
Specimen No. 0187
AvoidSyntheticfood nitrates and nitrites

Potassium Nitrite

E249

Master DB rating: Avoid. Listed for: Cured/smoked meats

medium confidence
Researched July 7, 2026

Concerns

  • Converts to nitrosamines via the same metabolic pathway as sodium nitrite
  • WHO/IARC's 2015 evaluation classified processed meat as a Group 1 carcinogen for colorectal cancer specifically via this nitrite-to-nitrosamine pathway

Regulatory flags

  • IARC Class: NL (processed meat category = Gr1 via nitrosamines)
  • EDC Status: None
  • Regulatory: US: USDA limits (9 CFR 424.22, 148 ppm ingoing for bacon); EU: limits
  • Evidence Grade: A

Commonly found in

Cured/smoked meats

Research disclaimer: This rating is based on available peer-reviewed research and regulatory assessments at the time of publication. It is not medical advice. Consult a qualified professional for personal health or skin concerns.

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