Diet: Confirmed link between colorectal cancer and exposure to nitrites and nitrates

Presence of nitrates in soil and water, use of potassium and sodium nitrites (E249, E250) and sodium and potassium nitrates (E251, E252) as food additives for their antimicrobial properties in cold cuts and processed meat... In an opinion published on 12 July 2022 on the risk assessment of nitrates and nitrites, Anses confirms the existence of an association between the risk of colorectal cancer and exposure to nitrites and nitrates. In view of this, the Government plans to put in place, in autumn 2022, an action plan to reduce the addition of nitrated additives in food products (Read more about the article).