Ingredient · E211

E211 As A Preservatives

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Source
Not animal-derived
Allergen
No
Role in food
Sodium benzoate is used as a preservative to prevent the growth of mold, yeast, …

What it is

Sodium benzoate is a salt of benzoic acid, a chemical that occurs naturally in some fruits like cranberries and prunes. It is typically manufactured by combining toluene with chlorine and then oxidizing the resulting benzyl chloride. It appears as a white crystalline powder.

Why it's used

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 and is commonly found in acidic foods like salad dressings, carbonated drinks, jams, jellies, and fruit juices.

Health notes

In the U.S., sodium benzoate is Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) by the FDA when used according to good manufacturing practices. It has been evaluated by international bodies like JECFA and EFSA. Some studies have explored potential links between sodium benzoate and hyperactivity in children, particularly when combined with artificial colors, but evidence is mixed and not conclusive. Further research is ongoing.

Allergen info

Sodium benzoate is not derived from any of the nine FDA major allergens. It does not contain gluten.

Products containing E211 As A Preservatives

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Logic Nutrition, Inc. Garlic & Ginger Paste Seasoning Mixes, Salts, Marinades & Tenderizers High in sodium — 24% DV per serving 100kcal 5Protein 0Fat 20Carbs Logic Nutrition, Inc. Spicy Mango Pickle, Hot Chilli Piment Fort Oriental, Mexican & Ethnic Sauces High in sodium — 36% DV per serving 175kcal 0Protein 12.5Fat 15Carbs Logic Nutrition, Inc. Lime & Chili Pickle Oriental, Mexican & Ethnic Sauces High in sodium — 33% DV per serving 125kcal 0Protein 10Fat 10Carbs Logic Nutrition, Inc. Mixed Pickle, Hot Chili, Piment Fort Oriental, Mexican & Ethnic Sauces High in sodium — 30% DV per serving 150kcal 0Protein 10Fat 15Carbs Logic Nutrition, Inc. Pickle, Garlic Oriental, Mexican & Ethnic Sauces High in sodium — 32% DV per serving 150kcal 5Protein 7.5Fat 15Carbs Logic Nutrition, Inc. Green Chilli Pickle Pickles, Olives, Peppers & Relishes High in sodium — 32% DV per serving 150kcal 5Protein 10Fat 10Carbs Logic Nutrition, Inc. Tamarind & Date Chutney Pickles, Olives, Peppers & Relishes 280kcal 0Protein 0Fat 72Carbs Logic Nutrition, Inc. Fazlani, Garlic Pasta Pickles, Olives, Peppers & Relishes High in sodium — 26% DV per serving 125kcal 5Protein 0Fat 25Carbs Logic Nutrition, Inc. Sweet Mango Chutney Pickles, Olives, Peppers & Relishes 280kcal 0Protein 0Fat 68Carbs Logic Nutrition, Inc. Sweet Lime Pickle Pickles, Olives, Peppers & Relishes 280kcal 0Protein 0Fat 72Carbs Logic Nutrition, Inc. Green Chilli Paste Oriental, Mexican & Ethnic Sauces High in sodium — 26% DV per serving 50kcal 0Protein 0Fat 10Carbs
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Last updated: September 28, 2026

Note: This site presents label data from USDA FoodData Central for general information. It is not medical advice. Check the package label; formulations change.