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The History of Sodium Nitrite

Sodium nitrite is similar in name and use to sodium nitrate. Both are preservatives used in processed meats, such as salami, hot dogs and bacon. Over the years, sodium nitrite has raised some concerns about its safety in foods, but it remains in use and there are indications that it may actually be healthy.
    • Hot dogs contain sodium nitrite.

    Uses

    • Sodium nitrite is mainly used to help preserve the color of a meat even through the cooking process. Sodium nitrite also helps inhibit botulism, and apparently functions as an antioxidant.

    Early History

    • Sodium nitrite was developed during the 1960's. Resistance to it quickly arose when its health effects were studied during the 1970s. In 1977, the U.S. Department of Agriculture considered banning it. Anti-nitrite sentiment reached its peak between 1978 and 1981. The USDA's final ruling on the additive came out in 1984, allowing its use.

    Further Study

    • Studies released in the 1990s once again cast a bad light on sodium nitrite. A 1994 study showed epidemiological associations with sodium nitrite and a link between hot dog consumption and childhood leukemia and brain cancers. When this study was reported on in the national media, the fervor resulted in a decline in sodium nitrite's use. In the late 1990s, the National Toxicity Program began a review of sodium nitrite and California proposed listing sodium nitrite as a developmental and reproductive toxicant.

    Vindication

    • Sodium nitrite was once again vindicated in 2000. The National Toxicity Program unanimously decided that it wasn't a toxic substance. In June 2000, a California commission voted not to list sodium nitrite as a developmental and reproductive toxicant.

    Recent History

    • Sodium nitrite is now being studied for its health benefits. Since 2000, the National Institutes of Health have released a number of studies that support the benefits of sodium nitrite. It is now believed that it can help with organ transplants and leg vascular problems, while preventing heart attacks and sickle cell disease.

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