What is E249?
E249 is Potassium nitrite, a food additive used as a preservative. Mineral. Used to cure meat — the meat itself still needs to be halal.
Also written as: INS 249, E-249, E 249. 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.
Is E249 vegetarian or vegan?
Yes. E249 (Potassium nitrite) is normally made from plant, mineral, microbial or synthetic sources, so it is suitable for vegetarians and vegans.
Why we classify it this way
Halal Mineral. Used to cure meat — the meat itself still needs to be halal.
Basis: No concern found. Made from plants, minerals, fermentation or synthesis, or from a permitted animal product. Nothing in normal production raises a pork, alcohol, insect or slaughter question.
No external reference is listed for this record yet.
Classification audited 3 November 2026. It has not been reviewed by a scholar. How classifications work · Suggest a correction
Frequently asked questions
Is E249 halal?
E249 (Potassium nitrite) is halal. Mineral. Used to cure meat — the meat itself still needs to be halal.
What is E249 made from?
Mineral salt.
What is E249 used for?
E249 is used as a preservative, typically in soft drinks, bread, cured meats, dried fruit and sauces.
What should I do if a product contains E249?
No action needed for this additive. Check the rest of the ingredient list, and remember that meat products still need proper halal slaughter.
Is E249 vegetarian or vegan?
Yes. E249 (Potassium nitrite) is normally made from plant, mineral, microbial or synthetic sources, so it is suitable for vegetarians and vegans.