Less Than 1/10 Of 1% Sodium Benzoate

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

Sodium benzoate is primarily used as a preservative to inhibit the growth of bacteria, yeast, and mold. It is effective in acidic foods and is commonly found in acidic products like salad dressings, carbonated drinks, jams, fruit juices, and pickles.

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 beverages, it can form small amounts of benzene, a potential carcinogen; however, the FDA monitors these levels and considers them safe. JECFA and EFSA have evaluated sodium benzoate, and both have established acceptable daily intakes. Some studies suggest a link between sodium benzoate and hyperactivity in children, but the evidence is mixed and not conclusive.