Nitrites are added to foods to inhibit rancidity. These compounds are used in the food, chemical and pharmaceutical industries.
Nitrites are conservant that prevent the growth of Clostridium botulinum and Listeria bacteria.
These bacteria (Clostridium botulinum and Listeria) are harmful to human health, thereby nitrites must be added to foods.
In meats, nitrites also exhibit some other beneficial properties which include the pink color, antioxidant properties, and savory flavor.
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