Nutrition

Nitrosation

Also called Nitrosamine formation

Nitrosation is a chemical reaction, often in the acidic stomach, where nitrites can form N-nitroso compounds linked to cancer in animal studies.

Nitrates from food and water can become nitrites in saliva and stomach acid. Antioxidants such as vitamin C in the same meal may limit some reactions in lab models; human cancer risk still depends on diet pattern, dose and time. Processed meats add nitrites without the vitamin C that often accompanies nitrate-rich vegetables.

General information, not medical advice.