What is nano2?

Sodium nitrite, commonly known as nano2, is a salt of sodium and nitrous acid. It is a white to slightly yellow crystalline compound that is used in a variety of industrial applications.

One of the main uses of nano2 is as a preservative in cured meats, such as bacon and ham, to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria and extend the shelf life of the product. It is also used in the production of dyes, pharmaceuticals, and as a rust inhibitor in automotive and construction industries.

Ingesting high levels of sodium nitrite can be harmful as it can react with compounds in the stomach to form carcinogenic nitrosamines. For this reason, regulatory bodies such as the FDA impose strict limits on the amount of nano2 that can be used in food products.

Overall, sodium nitrite is a versatile compound with a range of important industrial applications but must be used with caution due to its potential health risks.