Nitrites and nitrates are commonly found in nature, and nitrates can be converted to nitrites by the action of microorganisms. Excessive intake of nitrite by the human body can affect health in mild cases and cause cancer, deformities, and even death in severe cases. Therefore, it is important to minimize nitrates and nitrites from food sources and avoid excessive intake.
Where do nitrites come from in the body?
Industrial nitrites
Because nitrite is similar in appearance to table salt, some people mistakenly use or consume nitrite as table salt, which can cause nitrite poisoning.
Fresh vegetables are not stored properly
In general, the nitrite content in vegetables is not harmful to humans. Even if fresh vegetables are left for a period of time, the nitrate content does not change significantly, but if the storage conditions are not good, such as higher temperature and humidity, it will lead to deterioration and decay of vegetables, in which the nitrate content will increase rapidly.
Vegetable pickling
Accumulated nitrates are converted to high levels of nitrites during the pickling process.
Meat curing
Nitrates and nitrites are often used as color protectors and preservatives when curing meats, and are used in meat products such as sausage, ham, bacon, bacon, and hot dogs.
Smoked foods
Smoked foods such as smoked fish, roast duck, and barbecue, during the smoking process, the nitrates in the food break down in large amounts, producing large amounts of nitrosamines carcinogens.
Water sources
Well water in some areas contains more nitrates (called “bitter well water”), and if the water is stored for too long, the nitrates can be transformed into nitrites by the action of bacteria.
Overnight food
Nitrates in overnight food can be broken down by bacteria into nitrites, especially in warmer environments, which break down faster and produce more nitrites.
How to reduce nitrite intake?
To reduce nitrite intake into the body via food, you can pay attention to the following points.
- Industrial nitrite products are clearly labeled as “not for consumption” or “nitrite products”, so read the labels when cooking to avoid mistaking industrial nitrite for table salt.
- Consume fresh vegetables, use refrigerators and other appliances to keep them fresh, and try not to eat vegetables that have been stored or spoiled for a long time.
- Pickle vegetables in a reasonable way, including controlling salt concentration, temperature, and air volume, and try not to consume or consume less vegetable pickles.
- Consume less meat cured and smoked products and buy regular products with food additives that meet the requirements.
- Ensure safe drinking water and do not drink drinking water with excessive nitrate content.
- Try not to consume overnight food, such as overnight meals, etc.