sodium benzoate
Basic Information
| Field | Content |
|---|---|
| Chinese name | sodium benzoate |
| English name | sodium benzoate |
| INS/E number | INS 211 |
| Functional class | Preservative |
| Year adopted | To be added. |
| Approved by | Australia/New Zealand (FSANZ), European Union (EFSA) |
What is it?
Sodium benzoate (INS 211) is the sodium salt of benzoic acid with good water solubility; it is the most commonly used benzoate preservative, converting to benzoic acid under acidic conditions to exert antimicrobial effect.
Source
Industrial：苯甲酸与氢氧化钠中和、干燥制得食品级苯甲酸钠
Why is it used?
- Inhibits yeasts, moulds and some bacteria
- Good solubility for beverage formulation
- Extends shelf life of acidic foods
- Low cost and widely used
- Synergistic with sorbates
Common Foods
- Carbonated drinks
- Juices and tea drinks
- Sauces
- Jams
- Pickled foods
Safety
ADI (Acceptable Daily Intake)：0-5 mg/kg bw (as benzoic acid)
Concerns：
- 与维生素 C 在酸性饮料中可能生成微量苯
- 对部分哮喘人群敏感
- 增加钠负荷（高用量时）
Usage Standard
China：GB 2760（苯甲酸及其钠盐）
International：
- EU Regulation 1333/2008 Annex II (E 211)
- FDA 21 CFR 184.1733 (GRAS)
- Codex GSFA (INS 211)
- FSANZ Food Standards Code (Sodium benzoate, 211)
In a nutshell
Sodium benzoate is the most water-soluble benzoate preservative, widely used in drinks and very safe.
Consumer Advice
A common preservative used in acidic foods and drinks. May form trace amounts of benzene (a carcinogen) when combined with Vitamin C under heat/light, though levels in commercial beverages are heavily regulated.
Dietary Restrictions
- Vegan: ✅
- Halal: ✅
- Kosher: ✅
Allergens
✅ Free from common allergens
Disclaimer
The information provided here is for discussion and educational purposes only. It is not medical advice or an evaluation/rating of any product or ingredient. This information may not apply to you; before using or taking any action, you should contact the manufacturer, vendor, medical, dietary, fitness, or other professionals. If you use any information provided here, you do so at your own risk.