sodium nitrite

American  

noun

1. Chemistry. a yellowish or white crystalline compound, NaNO 2 , soluble in water, slightly soluble in alcohol and ether: used in the manufacture of dyes and as a color fixative.

2. Nutrition. this compound added to food as a preservative and for flavor and color, especially in pork, fish, and beef products: implicated in the formation of suspected carcinogens.

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Etymology

Origin of sodium nitrite

First recorded in 1900–05

Example Sentences

These included potassium sorbate, potassium metabisulfite, sodium nitrite, potassium nitrate, and acetic acid.

From Science Daily • Jan. 27, 2026

She accepted that if she had done so, she would have been able to see it was in fact sodium nitrite.

From BBC • Jul. 22, 2024

Scientists have also studied poisons such as sodium nitrite, but they risk harming other species.

From Seattle Times • Nov. 21, 2023

In a 34-page decision, Robart said the product label for the sodium nitrite identified the dangers of using the chemical, which is sometimes used in cured meats.

From Reuters • Jun. 28, 2023

If the colour of the medium remains unaltered, add 2 c.c. of a 0.01 per cent. aqueous solution sodium nitrite, and again allow the culture to stand for ten minutes.

From The Elements of Bacteriological Technique A Laboratory Guide for Medical, Dental, and Technical Students. Second Edition Rewritten and Enlarged. by Eyre, J. W. H. (John William Henry)