The European Commission has set significantly stricter limits for the use of nitrites and nitrates as food additives to reduce consumer exposure to nitrosamines, some of which are carcinogenic, while still protecting against foodborne pathogens. EU food business operators have two years to adapt to the new limits.
The new limits are outlined in an extensive document amending annexes to Commission Regulation (EU) 1333/2008 of the European Parliament and Council, and to Commission Regulation (EU) 231/2012 regarding nitrites (E 249-250) and nitrates (E 251-252).