Sodium Benzoate Added As Preservative

Sodium benzoate is a salt of benzoic acid, a chemical that occurs naturally in small amounts in fruits like cranberries and apples. It is typically manufactured industrially by reacting toluene with chlorine to produce benzoyl chloride, which is then reacted with sodium hydroxide or sodium carbonate.

Manufacturers add sodium benzoate to foods as a preservative to prevent the growth of mold, yeast, and bacteria. It is often found in acidic foods like salad dressings, carbonated drinks, jams, and pickles.

In the U.S., sodium benzoate is Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) by the FDA when used as a food preservative. JECFA and EFSA have also evaluated sodium benzoate. Some studies have explored its potential effects, particularly in combination with vitamin C, but the evidence is mixed and research is ongoing.