What is E250?
E250 is Sodium nitrite, a preservative. Synthetic. Common in cured meats — the meat itself is what needs checking.
Also written as: INS 250, E-250, E 250. INS is the international numbering system used outside Europe, including on labels in Asia, Australia and the Middle East.
What to do
No action needed for this additive. Check the rest of the ingredient list, and remember that meat products still need proper halal slaughter.
Frequently asked questions
Is E250 halal?
E250 (Sodium nitrite) is halal. Synthetic. Common in cured meats — the meat itself is what needs checking.
What is E250 made from?
Synthetic.
What is E250 used for?
E250 is used as a preservative, typically in soft drinks, bread, cured meats, dried fruit and sauces.
What should I do if a product contains E250?
No action needed for this additive. Check the rest of the ingredient list, and remember that meat products still need proper halal slaughter.
Related E-numbers
Last reviewed 2026-10-06. How we decide · Suggest a correction