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Sodium benzoate is a salt of benzoic acid. It is produced when benzoic acid is neutralized with sodium hydroxide. It occurs naturally in small amounts in fruits like cranberries, apples, and plums.

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

In the US, 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 some beverages, it can form small amounts of benzene, a potential carcinogen. However, the FDA states that the levels of benzene formed are generally low and not a safety concern. JECFA and EFSA have evaluated sodium benzoate and established acceptable daily intakes. Some studies have explored a potential link between sodium benzoate and hyperactivity in children, but the evidence is mixed and not conclusive.