Sodium Benzoate - A Preservative

Sodium benzoate is a salt of benzoic acid, a chemical that occurs naturally in some fruits like cranberries and plums. It is typically produced industrially by reacting toluene with chlorine, then oxidizing the resulting benzoyl chloride, and finally neutralizing with sodium carbonate or sodium hydroxide.

Sodium benzoate is used as a preservative to prevent the growth of mold, yeast, and bacteria in foods. It is often found in acidic foods like pickles, olives, relishes, and fruit juices, as well as in baked goods like cakes and cupcakes.

In the U.S., sodium benzoate is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA when used as a preservative. JECFA and EFSA have evaluated sodium benzoate and established acceptable daily intakes. While generally considered safe at typical consumption levels, some studies have explored potential links between sodium benzoate and hyperactivity in children, though evidence is mixed and not conclusive.