Sodium Benzoate (E211) — What You Need to Know
What Is Sodium Benzoate?
Sodium benzoate is one of the oldest and most widely used food preservatives. It occurs naturally in small amounts in some fruits and spices, but the commercial form is synthetically produced. It works by inhibiting the growth of bacteria, mold, and yeast in acidic foods. A significant concern is its ability to combine with ascorbic acid (vitamin C) to form benzene, a known carcinogen.
What Is It Used For?
Used in acidic foods and beverages including soft drinks, fruit juices, pickles, condiments, and salad dressings to prevent microbial spoilage.
Safety Assessment
The primary concern with sodium benzoate is that it can react with ascorbic acid (vitamin C) in acidic beverages to form benzene, a Group 1 carcinogen. While the FDA and other agencies have found benzene levels in most products to be very low (below 5 ppb), the FDA advises reformulation where possible. It has also been included in studies linking preservative combinations to hyperactivity in children.
Based on current evidence, Sodium Benzoate is rated Caution with a score of 5/10. This is 0.7 points below the average for preservatives (5.7/10). Last reviewed by regulators: 2016. A typical diet provides about 0.9% of the acceptable daily intake.
Commonly Found In
Always check the label for E211 or 'Sodium Benzoate'
▶Chemical Information
Frequently Asked Questions about Sodium Benzoate
Quick Facts
- E-Number
- E211
- INS Number
- 211
- Category
- Preservatives
- Origin
- Synthetic
- FDA Status
- GRAS
- EFSA Status
- Authorized
- ADI
- 5 mg/kg bw/day
- Last Review
- 2016
Related Additives
Other preservatives in the same family