An electrochemical cell of either a primary or a secondary chemistry, is described. In either case, the cell has a negative electrode of lithium or of an anode material which is capable of intercalating and de-intercalating lithium coupled with a positive electrode of a cathode active material. A nitrite compound is mixed with either the anode material or the cathode active material prior to contact with its current collector. The resulting electrode couple is activated by a non-aqueous electrolyte. The electrolyte flows into and throughout the electrodes causing the nitrite compound to dissolve in the electrolyte. The nitrite solute is then able to contact the lithium to provide an electrically insulating and ionically conducting passivation layer thereon.