Preservative And Sodium Benzoate

Sodium benzoate is a salt of benzoic acid, a common organic compound. It is produced industrially by reacting toluene with chlorine and then hydrolyzing the resulting benzotrichloride. It appears as a white crystalline powder.

Sodium benzoate is used as a preservative to prevent the growth of bacteria, yeast, and mold in foods and beverages. It is particularly effective in acidic conditions. It is commonly found in acidic foods like pickles, olives, relishes, salad dressings, and carbonated drinks.

In the U.S., sodium benzoate is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA when used according to good manufacturing practices. When combined with ascorbic acid (Vitamin C) in certain beverages, it can form small amounts of benzene, a known carcinogen. Regulatory bodies like JECFA and EFSA have evaluated sodium benzoate. While generally considered safe at typical consumption levels, some studies have explored potential links to hyperactivity in children, though evidence is mixed and not conclusive.