Sodium Benzoate And Xanthan Gum

Sodium benzoate is a salt of benzoic acid, a common food preservative. It is produced synthetically by reacting sodium hydroxide with benzoic acid. Xanthan gum is a polysaccharide produced by the fermentation of sugar by a specific bacterium, *Xanthomonas campestris*.

Sodium benzoate is used as a preservative to inhibit the growth of mold, yeast, and bacteria in acidic foods like salad dressings, carbonated drinks, jams, and fruit juices. Xanthan gum is used as a thickener and stabilizer in foods such as salad dressings, sauces, and baked goods to improve texture and prevent ingredients from separating.

Sodium benzoate is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use as a food preservative. When consumed in typical amounts, it is not associated with adverse health effects. The WHO/FAO Joint Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA) has evaluated sodium benzoate and established an acceptable daily intake. Concerns have been raised about potential links to hyperactivity in children, but research findings are mixed and often confounded by other factors in the diet.