Nitrites are inorganic compounds containing the nitrite ion, NO2-. They are often used as preservatives and antimicrobial agents in food and other industries.
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Nitrites can inhibit the growth of certain bacteria by interfering with their metabolic processes.
In high concentrations, nitrites can be toxic to humans and animals.
Common applications of nitrites include food preservation, especially in cured meats.
Nitrites work by converting to nitric oxide under acidic conditions, which then reacts with microbial DNA and proteins.
The use of nitrites is regulated due to potential health risks, such as the formation of carcinogenic nitrosamines.