Ingredient · E211, E223

Sodium Benzoate And Sodium Metabisulfite

Source
Not animal-derived
Allergen
No
Role in food
These are often used together as preservatives in acidic foods like pickles, olives, relishes, …

What is Sodium Benzoate And Sodium Metabisulfite?

Sodium benzoate is a salt of benzoic acid, a compound found naturally in many plants like cranberries and apples. It is typically made by reacting toluene with chlorine, then oxidizing the resulting benzyl chloride. Sodium metabisulfite is a white crystalline powder made from sulfur dioxide.

Is Sodium Benzoate And Sodium Metabisulfite vegan?

Sodium Benzoate And Sodium Metabisulfite is not animal-derived. Products that contain it can still include other animal-derived ingredients, so check the full ingredient list.

Is Sodium Benzoate And Sodium Metabisulfite a major allergen?

Not a major allergen.

What is Sodium Benzoate And Sodium Metabisulfite used for?

These are often used together as preservatives in acidic foods like pickles, olives, relishes, and sauces.

Is Sodium Benzoate And Sodium Metabisulfite safe?

Sodium benzoate and sodium metabisulfite are approved for use in food by the FDA.

Why it's used

These are often used together as preservatives in acidic foods like pickles, olives, relishes, and sauces. They work by preventing the growth of mold, yeast, and bacteria, which helps extend the shelf life of products.

Health notes

Sodium benzoate and sodium metabisulfite are approved for use in food by the FDA. They are generally recognized as safe (GRAS) when used as preservatives. Some studies have explored potential links between sodium benzoate and hyperactivity in children, but the evidence is mixed and not conclusive. JECFA and EFSA have evaluated these substances and established acceptable daily intake levels.

Allergen info

Not a major allergen. Sodium metabisulfite can cause allergic-type reactions in sensitive individuals, particularly those with asthma.

Foods that contain Sodium Benzoate And Sodium Metabisulfite

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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.