And Sodium Benzoate

Sodium benzoate is a salt of benzoic acid, a chemical found naturally in some fruits like cranberries and plums. It is typically manufactured by reacting toluene with chlorine, followed by neutralization with sodium hydroxide. It appears as a white crystalline powder.

Sodium benzoate is primarily used as a preservative to prevent the growth of mold, yeast, and bacteria in foods and beverages. It is most effective in acidic conditions, which is why it's commonly found in acidic foods like sodas, fruit juices, pickles, jams, and salad dressings.

In the U.S., sodium benzoate is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA when used as a food preservative. When combined with ascorbic acid (Vitamin C) in certain beverages, it can form small amounts of benzene, a potential carcinogen. However, the FDA notes that the levels of benzene formed are very low and not considered a health risk. Regulatory bodies like JECFA and EFSA have evaluated sodium benzoate and established acceptable daily intake levels. Some studies suggest a link between sodium benzoate and hyperactivity in children, but the evidence is mixed and not conclusive.