Ingredient · E211

Preserves Freshness

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

What is Preserves Freshness?

Sodium benzoate is a salt of benzoic acid. It is a white, crystalline powder that is soluble in water. It is produced commercially by reacting sodium hydroxide with benzoic acid.

Is Preserves Freshness vegan?

Preserves Freshness is not animal-derived. Products that contain it can still include other animal-derived ingredients, so check the full ingredient list.

Is Preserves Freshness gluten-free?

It does not contain gluten.

Is Preserves Freshness a major allergen?

Sodium benzoate is not derived from any of the 9 FDA major allergens.

What is Preserves Freshness used for?

Sodium benzoate is used as a preservative to prevent the growth of mold, yeast, and bacteria in foods and beverages.

Is Preserves Freshness safe?

In the U.S., sodium benzoate is Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) by the FDA when used according to good manufacturing practices.

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 most effective in acidic conditions. It is commonly found in acidic foods like sodas, fruit juices, pickles, and salad dressings.

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 JECFA and EFSA. Some studies have explored potential links between sodium benzoate and hyperactivity in children, but the evidence is mixed and not conclusive. When consumed in typical amounts found in food, it is not considered harmful.

Allergen info

Sodium benzoate is not derived from any of the 9 FDA major allergens. It does not contain gluten.

Foods that contain Preserves Freshness

Compare products →
Amazon links are paid links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. About these links

Learn more

Ultra-Processed Foods and the NOVA Scale →

Auto-generated content. This description was generated automatically and is pending editorial review. Inaccuracies are possible. Found a mistake? Contact us.

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.