Sodium Benzoate And Sorbic Acid

Sodium benzoate is a salt of benzoic acid, a common food preservative. Benzoic acid occurs naturally in many plants, like cranberries and plums. Sodium benzoate is typically made by reacting toluene with sodium hydroxide.

Sodium benzoate and sorbic acid are used together as preservatives to prevent the growth of mold, yeast, and bacteria in foods. They are often found in acidic foods like salad dressings, carbonated drinks, jams, and pickles.

Sodium benzoate is Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) by the FDA when used as a food preservative. It has been evaluated by JECFA and EFSA. Some studies have explored potential links between sodium benzoate and hyperactivity in children, but evidence is mixed and inconclusive. When combined with ascorbic acid (Vitamin C) and exposed to heat or light, sodium benzoate can form small amounts of benzene, a potential carcinogen. Food manufacturers work to minimize benzene formation.