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Potassium nitrite

CAS Number
7758-09-0
EC Number
231-832-4
Chemical Formula
HNO2.K
Molecular Weight
85.104 g/mol

Description

Potassium nitrite (CAS 7758-09-0 ), also designated E249 in food regulation, is an inorganic salt used as a preservative and curing agent across food and pharmaceutical applications. It inhibits microbial growth and stabilizes color in processed meat products, functioning as a direct alternative to sodium nitrite where potassium-based formulations are required. In meat processing, E249 is applied to cured and cooked meat products, including ham, bacon, and sausages, to suppress Clostridium botulinum growth and fix the characteristic pink color. Pharmaceutical manufacturers use potassium nitrite as an intermediate or excipient in specific drug formulations where controlled nitrite activity is required for the final product. Food producers targeting reduced-sodium formulations may select it over sodium nitrite to lower overall sodium content in the finished product while maintaining safety standards. It also appears in certain preservation systems for fish and poultry products under regulatory frameworks that permit its use at defined maximum levels for consumer safety. Potassium nitrite is supplied as a white to pale yellow crystalline powder or granules. Food-grade material conforming to E249 specifications is the primary commercial form. Purity levels are typically at 99% or above. Pharmaceutical-grade material meeting USP or BP standards is available for regulated manufacturing applications. Contact us for supply of Potassium nitrite Request Quote

Other Names (Synonyms)

Nitrous acid, potassium salt | Potassium nitrite (1:1) | Nitrous acid potassium salt (1:1) | INS NO.249 | 794654G42L | INS-249 | Klear | E249

Key Technical Features

  • High Purity Grade standard
  • Consistent Batch Quality
  • Full Regulatory & REACH Support
  • Global Logistics Network enabled

Physical Properties

Melting Point441 °C (decomp)
Boiling Pointexplodes at 537°C [HAW93]
Density1.915 g/cm³
AppearancePotassium nitrite is a white to yellowish crystalline solid.
ColorWhite to slightly yellow
OdorOdorless
FormSolid
Water SolubilitySoluble in water, hot alcohol, liquid NH{3}Soluble in water, alcohol and ammonia.
pH7-10 (50g/l, H2O, 20℃)

Safety & Handling

Danger
GHS03· OxidizerGHS06· ToxicGHS09· EnvironmentGHS08· Health HazardGHS07· Irritant

Hazard Statements

H272May intensify fire; oxidizer
H301Toxic if swallowed
H311Toxic in contact with skin
H315Causes skin irritation
H320Causes eye irritation
H333May be harmful if inhaled
H335May cause respiratory irritation
H361Suspected of damaging fertility or the unborn child
H362May cause harm to breast-fed children
H370Causes damage to organs
H371May cause damage to organs
H400Very toxic to aquatic life
H401Toxic to aquatic life
H411Toxic to aquatic life with long lasting effects

Precautionary Statements

P203Obtain, consult and follow expert instructions for use.
P210Keep away from heat, hot surfaces, sparks, open flames and other ignition sources. No smoking.
P220Keep away from clothing and other combustible materials.
P260Do not breathe dust/fume/gas/mist/vapours/spray.
P261Avoid breathing dust/fume/gas/mist/vapours/spray.
P262Do not get in eyes, on skin, or on clothing.
P263Avoid contact during pregnancy and while nursing.
P264Wash … thoroughly after handling.
P270Do not eat, drink or smoke when using this product.
P271Use only outdoors or in a well-ventilated area.
P273Avoid release to the environment.
P280Wear protective gloves/protective clothing/eye protection/face protection.
P316Get emergency medical help immediately.
P318IF exposed or concerned, get medical advice.
P319Get medical advice/attention if you feel unwell.
P321Specific treatment (see … on this label).
P330Rinse mouth.
P391Collect spillage.
P405Store locked up.
P501Dispose of contents/container in accordance with local regulations.
P265Wash … thoroughly after handling.
P316Get emergency medical help immediately.
P352IF ON SKIN: Wash with plenty of water.
P317Get emergency medical help.
P340IF INHALED: Remove person to fresh air and keep comfortable for breathing.
P316Get emergency medical help immediately.
P317Get emergency medical help.
P317If eye irritation persists: Get medical advice/attention. Get emergency medical help.
P364Take off immediately all contaminated clothing and wash it before reuse.
P364Take off contaminated clothing and wash it before reuse.
P378Use … for extinction.
P233Store in a well-ventilated place. Keep container tightly closed.
P338IF IN EYES: Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes. Remove contact lenses, if present and easy to do. Continue rinsing.

Trade & Regulatory

HS Code28341000
UN Number1488
ADR Class5.1
Packing GroupII
Storage Class5.1B - Oxidizing hazardous materials
WGK (Germany)2