Sodium Benzoate Colored With Beta Carotene

Sodium benzoate is a salt of benzoic acid, a common food preservative. It is typically produced synthetically. Beta-carotene is a pigment found in many fruits and vegetables, and it is often used to provide a yellow to orange color.

Sodium benzoate is used as a preservative to inhibit the growth of mold, yeast, and bacteria in foods and beverages. Beta-carotene is used as a color additive to give foods a yellow to orange hue. They are often found together in baked goods and pastries.

Sodium benzoate is Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) by the FDA when used as a preservative. The WHO/IARC has classified it as Group 3, not classifiable as to its carcinogenicity to humans. JECFA has evaluated sodium benzoate and established an acceptable daily intake. Beta-carotene is also GRAS. Some studies have explored potential links between sodium benzoate and hyperactivity in children, but the evidence is mixed and not conclusive at typical intake levels.