Nitrite

Definition

Antimicrobial (preservative) added to processed meat products like bacon, sausage, hot dogs, and ham.

Health Impact

Nitrites have been linked to an increased risk of stomach cancer, as well as colorectal, breast and bladder cancer. When exposed to high heat and in the presence of amino acids, nitrites can turn into nitrosamine, a compound that has also been linked to health issues like higher risk of stomach cancer.

Sources

• Nitrosamine and related food intake and gastric and oesophageal cancer risk: a systematic review of the epidemiological evidence

  Pub Med

• Red and Processed Meat and Colorectal Cancer Incidence: Meta-Analysis of Prospective Studies

  Plos One

• Nitrates/Nitrites in Food—Risk for Nitrosative Stress and Benefits

  National Library of Medicine