Sodium Benzoate To Help Protect Flavor

Sodium benzoate is a salt of benzoic acid, a chemical that occurs naturally in some fruits like cranberries and plums. It is typically manufactured by reacting toluene with chlorine to produce benzoyl chloride, which is then reacted with sodium hydroxide or sodium carbonate. It appears as a white crystalline powder.

Sodium benzoate is primarily used as a preservative to inhibit the growth of bacteria, yeast, and mold, helping to protect the flavor and quality of foods. It is effective in acidic conditions and is commonly found in acidic foods like soft drinks, fruit juices, jams, pickles, and condiments such as salsa.

Sodium benzoate is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA when used as a food preservative. It has been evaluated by regulatory bodies like JECFA and EFSA, which have established acceptable daily intakes. While generally considered safe, some studies have explored potential links between sodium benzoate and hyperactivity in children, though evidence is mixed and not conclusive. It can also form benzene, a carcinogen, when combined with ascorbic acid (Vitamin C) in certain conditions, leading manufacturers to limit its use or use stabilizers.