[nahy-trahyt] 
| 1. | Chemistry. a yellowish or white crystalline compound, NaNO2, soluble in water, slightly soluble in alcohol and ether: used in the manufacture of dyes and as a color fixative. |
| 2. | Nutrition. this compound added to food as a preservative and for flavor and color, esp. in pork, fish, and beef products: implicated in the formation of suspected carcinogens. |
| ni·trite (nī'trīt') n. The univalent radical NO2 or a compound containing it, such as a salt or an ester of nitrous acid. |
nitrite ni·trite (nī'trīt')
n.
The univalent radical NO2.
A compound containing such a radical, such as a salt or ester of nitrous acid.
sodium nitrite n.
A white crystalline compound used to lower systemic blood pressure, to relieve local vasomotor spasms, to relax bronchial and intestinal spasms, and as an antidote for cyanide poisoning.
| nitrite (nī'trīt') Pronunciation Key
A salt or ester of nitrous acid, containing the group NO2. Nitrites are an important component of the nitrogen cycle and are used as food preservatives. Compare nitrate. |
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