Additive guide

E250 Sodium nitritewhat it means on a food label

The main curing salt in bacon and ham. Nitrosamine formation is why the WHO classes processed meat as carcinogenic. Berry Pure flags additives like this during a scan so you can decide faster at the shelf.

Berry Pure verdict

Best avoided

E250 is on Berry Pure's best-avoided list because the evidence record includes a ban, warning-label requirement, regulatory action, or a consistent health concern. The practical move is simple: if you see E250 or Sodium nitrite on a food you buy often, scan the label and look for a cleaner swap.

Usually found in

Bacon, ham, hot dogs, salami

If these are regular buys in your kitchen, scan a few brands side by side. Additive use can vary a lot between similar products.

Additive family

Preservative

Stop mould, bacteria and spoilage.

How to spot it on a label

Manufacturers may use the E-number code, the full additive name, or a common alternative name. These are the label terms to check:

  • E250
  • Sodium nitrite

Related additives

Same family, similar label context, or the same Berry Pure verdict.

E249Potassium nitriteE251Sodium nitrateE252Potassium nitrate

Frequently askedquestions

Everything you need to know about scanning your food with Berry Pure.

What is E250 Sodium nitrite?

E250 is Sodium nitrite, a preservative used in foods such as bacon, ham, hot dogs, salami. The main curing salt in bacon and ham. Nitrosamine formation is why the WHO classes processed meat as carcinogenic.

Is E250 bad for you?

E250 is on Berry Pure's best-avoided list because the evidence record includes a ban, warning-label requirement, regulatory action, or a consistent health concern. The practical move is simple: if you see E250 or Sodium nitrite on a food you buy often, scan the label and look for a cleaner swap.

How do I spot E250 on a label?

Look for these label names: E250, Sodium nitrite. Some products spell out the additive name instead of using the E-number code.

Can Berry Pure flag E250?

Yes. Berry Pure scans ingredient labels with your camera and flags additives like E250 so you do not have to memorize code numbers while shopping.

Sources

The claims on this page are based on these publications.

  1. EFSAFood additives: how additives are evaluated and approved in the EU
  2. WHO/IARCCarcinogenicity of the consumption of red meat and processed meat
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