noun
- any of a class of organic compounds containing the N-nitroso group, many of which are carcinogenic
Usage: chemistry; typically used in scientific and medical contexts
Examples
- Nitrosamines are found in some processed meats and have been linked to cancer in laboratory studies.
- The food industry has worked to reduce nitrosamine formation in cured products.
- Researchers discovered elevated levels of nitrosamines in certain contaminated water supplies.
- Nitrosamine compounds are formed when nitrites react with secondary amines under certain conditions.
- The EPA regulates nitrosamines as potential drinking water contaminants.