The urgency of estimating the content of nitrates in food products to ensure environmental safety at an individual level is discussed in the article. Data on the negative effect of increased nitrate content in plant foods on human health are given. The results of the study on the determination of the content of nitrates in food products using a household nitrate counter "Soek nuk-019-2" are discussed. This device makes a conclusion about the concentration of nitrates by comparing the reference electrical conductivity of different types of vegetables / fruits with the electrical conductivity of a particular controlled product. It is determined that exceeding the MPC is observed in potatoes and onions, which are sold through a network of stores that occupy leading positions in the prevalence in Taganrog. Excess of MAC in carrots is observed only in its central part (core). Based on the results obtained, practical recommendations are given to ensure the safety of food consumption.

Keywords: food safety, food, nitrate content, household nitrate