Sodium Benzoate And Sodium Phosphate

Sodium benzoate is a salt of benzoic acid, a chemical that occurs naturally in some fruits. It is typically produced industrially by reacting toluene with chlorine and then neutralizing the resulting benzotrichloride with sodium hydroxide or sodium carbonate. Sodium phosphate is a general term for salts of phosphoric acid, which can be derived from mineral sources or animal bones.

Sodium benzoate is used as a preservative to prevent the growth of mold, yeast, and bacteria in acidic foods like salad dressings, carbonated drinks, jams, and fruit juices. Sodium phosphate can act as an emulsifier, stabilizer, or acidity regulator in processed foods such as cheeses, meats, and baked goods.

Sodium benzoate is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use as a food preservative. When combined with ascorbic acid (Vitamin C) in beverages, it can form small amounts of benzene, a potential carcinogen, though levels are typically very low. JECFA and EFSA have evaluated sodium benzoate and established acceptable daily intakes. Sodium phosphate is also FDA GRAS. High intake of phosphates, particularly from processed foods, has been linked to potential health concerns in some studies, but evidence is mixed.