0.01% Sodium Benzoate

Sodium benzoate is a salt of benzoic acid, a chemical that occurs naturally in some fruits and spices. It is typically made by reacting toluene with chlorine to produce benzoic acid, which is then neutralized with sodium hydroxide. It appears as a white crystalline powder.

Sodium benzoate is used as a preservative to prevent the growth of mold, yeast, and bacteria in foods and beverages. It is particularly effective in acidic conditions. It is commonly found in acidic foods such as fruit juices, soft drinks, pickles, jams, and salad dressings.

Sodium benzoate is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use as a food preservative. It has been evaluated by JECFA and EFSA. Some studies have suggested a link between high intake of sodium benzoate and hyperactivity in children, but the evidence is mixed and not conclusive. When combined with ascorbic acid (vitamin C) in beverages, it can form small amounts of benzene, a known carcinogen, though levels are generally considered safe by regulatory bodies.