Sodium nitrite is a mineral compound with the chemical formula NaNO2 and a white to slightly yellow crystalline powder, which is very soluble in water and absorbs moisture. Sodium nitrite is the most important nitrite salt from an industrial point of view.
It is a precursor to a variety of organic compounds such as drugs, dyes, and pesticides, but is mostly used as a food additive in processed meats and (in some countries) in fish products.
