Chemistry, safety, and regulatory considerations in the use of nitrite and nitrate from natural origin in meat products

Nitrite and nitrate have been traditionally used for the preservation of meat products because of the effective antimicrobial action of nitrite against Clostridium botulinum, the outgrowth of its spores as well as other bacteria. However, the use of nitrite and nitrate has been questioned in last half century due to the possible generation of N-nitrosamines through reaction of nitrite with secondary amines. Nitrite replacement strategies began in the 70s addressing these issues and instigated searches for natural alternatives to nitrate and nitrite, or for natural sources of nitrite and nitrate such as vegetable extracts. These alternatives have been considered by producers and consumers as an attractive practice even though they may also have some risks. This manuscript reviews and discusses the chemistry, safety, and regulatory considerations in the use of nitrite and nitrate from natural origin for the preservation of meat products.

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Bibliographic Details
Main Authors: Flores Llovera, Mónica, Toldrá Vilardell, Fidel
Other Authors: Ministerio de Ciencia, Innovación y Universidades (España)
Format: artículo de revisión biblioteca
Language:English
Published: Elsevier 2020-08-03
Subjects:Nitrite, Nitrate, Cured meats, Nitrosamines, Spices, Vegetable extracts,
Online Access:http://hdl.handle.net/10261/217787
http://dx.doi.org/10.13039/501100011033
http://dx.doi.org/10.13039/501100000780
http://dx.doi.org/10.13039/501100010198
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