Preservatives Sodium Benzoate

Sodium benzoate is a salt of benzoic acid, a chemical that occurs naturally in some fruits like cranberries and plums. It is typically manufactured synthetically. It appears as a white crystalline powder.

Sodium benzoate is used as a preservative to prevent the growth of mold, yeast, and bacteria in foods and beverages. It is most effective in acidic conditions (pH below 4.5). You can find it in products like fruit juices, carbonated drinks, jams, pickles, and salad dressings.

In the US, 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 food colors, but the evidence is mixed and debated. The FDA continues to monitor scientific literature on food additives.