Nitrates

Nitrates are compounds that contain nitrogen and oxygen. They occur in nature in the form of minerals and are also components of fertilizers. Nitrates can be harmful to health in high concentrations and are therefore the focus of regulatory authorities' attention.

Areas of application for nitrates

Nitrates are used in various areas, including

• Agriculture: Nitrate-containing fertilizers are used in agriculture to promote the growth of plants.
• Food industry: Nitrates are used as preservatives in various foods, such as sausages and fish products.
• Medicine: Nitrates are used in medicine to treat cardiovascular diseases.

Health risks of nitrates

Nitrate-containing foods and drinking water can lead to an increased intake of nitrates, which can pose health risks. The risks include:

• Formation of carcinogenic substances in the body (nitrosamines)
• Cyanosis (methemoglobinemia) in infants
• Increased risk of certain types of cancer, such as stomach cancer

Measures to reduce nitrate levels

There are various measures to reduce nitrate levels in food and drinking water, including

• Use of low-nitrate fertilizers in agriculture
• Avoiding nitrate and nitrite-rich foods in the diet
• Use of treatment plants to reduce the nitrate content in drinking water

Conclusion

Nitrate-containing compounds have both advantages and disadvantages. They are important for agriculture, but can also be harmful to health in higher concentrations. The risk of increased nitrate intake can be reduced by using low-nitrate fertilizers and avoiding nitrate- and nitrite-rich foods. It is important to be aware of the nitrate content of food and drinking water and to take appropriate measures if necessary.