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Plain-language explanation

Sodium nitrate (E251) is a salt-like compound used to preserve cured meats like bacon and ham by preventing bacterial growth and adding a pink color. It is typically produced synthetically from nitric acid, which is considered halal, but can also be derived from natural mineral deposits. Major halal certification bodies like JAKIM, MUI, and MUIS generally approve sodium nitrate as halal when it is synthetically produced, but its status can become doubtful if sourced from animal byproducts without proper verification. Therefore, Muslims should look for products with halal certification to ensure the ingredient's source is permissible.