Ingredient · E211

To Maintain Freshness: Sodium Benzoate

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Source

Not animal-derived

Allergen

Role in food

Sodium benzoate is used as a preservative to prevent the growth of mold, yeast, …

What it is

Sodium benzoate is a salt of benzoic acid, a chemical that occurs naturally in many plants, like cranberries and plums. It is typically made by combining benzoic acid with sodium hydroxide. It appears as a white crystalline powder.

Why it's used

Sodium benzoate is used as a preservative to prevent the growth of mold, yeast, and bacteria in foods and beverages. It is most effective in acidic conditions (pH below 4.5). You can find it in acidic foods like ketchup, mustard, salad dressings, and some fruit juices.

Health notes

In the U.S., 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, particularly when consumed with ascorbic acid (Vitamin C), which can form small amounts of benzene. However, regulatory bodies consider the levels found in food to be safe.

Allergen info

Sodium benzoate is not one of the 9 FDA major allergens and does not contain gluten.

Products containing To Maintain Freshness: Sodium Benzoate

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Smithfield Farmland Corp. Scratch Meal Kit Teriyaki Beef Pre-Packaged Fruit & Vegetables High in sodium — 39% DV per serving High in saturated fat — 35% DV per serving High in added sugars — 42% DV per serving High in cholesterol — 25% DV per serving 181kcal 8.0Protein 4.3Fat 27.7Carbs Legend Larry's Distribution LLC Legendary Sauce, Hot Garlic Ketchup, Mustard, BBQ & Cheese Sauce 167kcal 0Protein 0Fat 33.3Carbs Legend Larry's Distribution LLC Honey BBQ Sauce Ketchup, Mustard, BBQ & Cheese Sauce 200kcal 0Protein 10Fat 26.7Carbs Legend Larry's Distribution LLC Scary Larry Sauce, Scary Larry Ketchup, Mustard, BBQ & Cheese Sauce 0kcal 0Protein 0Fat 0Carbs Legend Larry's Distribution LLC Teriyaki Legendary Sauce, Teriyaki Oriental, Mexican & Ethnic Sauces High in sodium — 24% DV per serving 200kcal 0Protein 0Fat 46.7Carbs

Brigaboom LLC Spicy California Roll, Spicy California Sushi High in sodium — 47% DV per serving High in saturated fat — 45% DV per serving High in added sugars — 24% DV per serving 156kcal 2.9Protein —Fat 25.4Carbs Legend Larry's Distribution LLC Legendary Sauce, Garlic Parmesan Ketchup, Mustard, BBQ & Cheese Sauce High in sodium — 21% DV per serving 533kcal 3.3Protein 53.3Fat 13.3Carbs The Moran Group Incorporated Zesty Asian Style Chicken Wings, Zesty Asian Style Frozen Appetizers & Hors D'oeuvres High in sodium — 30% DV per serving High in cholesterol — 33% DV per serving 200kcal 19Protein 13Fat 1Carbs Brigaboom LLC Fuji Combo Sushi Rolls Sushi High in sodium — 59% DV per serving High in added sugars — 32% DV per serving 151kcal 3.8Protein 3.0Fat 26.8Carbs Nardone Brothers Baking Co. Inc. Whole Wheat Self-Rising Buffalo Style Chicken Pizza Topped with Buffalo Sauce, Mozzarella Cheese, and Chicken Savoury Bakery Products High in sodium — 36% DV per serving High in saturated fat — 55% DV per serving 249kcal 11.7Protein 11.7Fat 25.6Carbs

Last updated: September 28, 2026

Note: This site presents label data from USDA FoodData Central for general information. It is not medical advice. Check the package label; formulations change.