POTASSIUM NITRATE
Prepared at the 44th JECFA (1995), published in FNP 52 Add 3 (1995) superseding specifications prepared at the 27th JECFA (1983), published in
FNP 28 (1983) and in FNP 52 (1992). Metals and arsenic specifications revised at the 63rd JECFA (2004). An ADI of 0-3.7 mg/kg bw was established at the 44th JECFA (1995). Nitrate should not be used for infants below 3 months.
SYNONYMS INS No. 252
DEFINITION
Chemical names Potassium nitrate
C.A.S. number 7757-79-1
Chemical formula KNO3
Formula weight 101.11
Assay Not less than 99.0% on the dried basis
Colourless, odourless, transparent prisms, or white granular or crystalline powder
DESCRIPTION
FUNCTIONAL USES Antimicrobial preservative, colour fixative
