Description
Sodium Nitrate – Food-Grade Preservative for Cured Meats
Sodium Nitrate (E251) is widely used in the food and beverage industry to preserve cured meats by inhibiting the growth of harmful bacteria, particularly Clostridium botulinum, which causes botulism. It is commonly applied in long-cured or slow-processed meats, where it gradually converts to sodium nitrite, providing long-term preservation, colour stability, and flavour enhancement.
Product Specifications
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Product Name: Sodium Nitrate
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E-Number: E251
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Chemical Formula: NaNO₃
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Form: Crystalline powder
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Appearance: White crystalline solid
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Solubility: Soluble in water
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Grade: Food-grade (as specified)
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Packaging: 25kg bag
Uses in Food & Beverage Processing
Preservation
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Inhibits bacterial growth in cured and processed meats
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Extends shelf life of meat and poultry products
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Particularly suited for long-cured meats
Colour Fixative
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Helps maintain the pinkish-red colour of cured meats
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Prevents greying during processing and storage
Flavour & Antioxidant
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Contributes to the characteristic flavour of cured meats
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Acts as an antioxidant by reducing fat oxidation and rancidity
Common Applications
Processed Foods (Added)
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Bacon
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Ham
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Sausages
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Hot dogs
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Salami
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Beef jerky
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Deli meats
Natural Occurrence
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Leafy vegetables such as spinach and lettuce
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Root vegetables including beetroot
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Naturally present nitrates account for a large portion of dietary nitrate intake
Beverages & Water
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Trace amounts may be present in dairy products
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Found in some beers
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Can occur in drinking water due to agricultural runoff
Health & Safety Considerations
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Sodium nitrate can convert to sodium nitrite in the body
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Nitrite may react with proteins to form nitrosamines under certain conditions
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High consumption of processed meats may be associated with health risks
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Use in food is strictly regulated to ensure safe consumption levels
Food manufacturers often use antioxidants such as ascorbic acid (Vitamin C) to reduce nitrosamine formation.
Packaging & Supply
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25kg bags
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Suitable for food manufacturers, meat processors, and industrial users
Available for supply in:
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Johannesburg
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Pretoria
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Cape Town
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Durban
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Port Elizabeth
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Nationwide South Africa
Bulk and wholesale supply available on request.
Storage & Handling
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Store in a cool, dry place
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Keep container tightly sealed
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Avoid contamination with incompatible materials
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Follow food-grade handling and safety procedures
Safety Data Sheet (SDS) available upon request.
Why Buy Sodium Nitrate from Bidchem?
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Food-grade quality for regulated applications
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Reliable 25kg bulk packaging
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Suitable for meat curing and food manufacturing
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Nationwide delivery across South Africa
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Trusted chemical supplier based in Johannesburg

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