Food Additives Encyclopedia

English

简体中文

English

简体中文

Appearance

potassium benzoate ​

Basic Information ​

FieldContent
Chinese namepotassium benzoate
English namepotassium benzoate
INS/E numberINS 212
Functional classPreservative
Year adoptedTo be added.
Approved byAustralia/New Zealand (FSANZ), European Union (EFSA)

What is it? ​

Potassium benzoate (INS 212) is the potassium salt of benzoic acid with good water solubility, used as a preservative where sodium avoidance or a potassium system is desired in acidic foods.

Source ​

Industrial：苯甲酸与氢氧化钾中和、干燥制得食品级苯甲酸钾

Why is it used? ​

  • Inhibits yeasts, moulds and some bacteria
  • Good solubility for formulation
  • Used in low-sodium formulations
  • Extends shelf life of acidic foods
  • Synergistic with sorbates

Common Foods ​

  • Beverages
  • Sauces
  • Jams
  • Pickled foods
  • Acidified canned 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
  • 个别敏感人群不耐受

Usage Standard ​

China：GB 2760（苯甲酸及其钾盐）

International：

  • EU Regulation 1333/2008 Annex II (E 212)
  • FDA 一般作为 GRAS 苯甲酸盐使用
  • Codex GSFA (INS 212)
  • FSANZ Food Standards Code (Potassium benzoate, 212)

In a nutshell ​

Potassium benzoate is the potassium benzoate preservative for low-sodium formulas, with safety equivalent to benzoic acid.

Consumer Advice ​

Potassium benzoate is the potassium salt of benzoic acid, used as a preservative in drinks, sauces and jams against yeasts and bacteria. Its action and safety are similar to benzoic acid and it is safe at approved levels. In theory, trace benzene can form in the presence of vitamin C, but manufacturers control this through formulation and processing. It is safe for most consumers, although people sensitive to benzoates, such as those allergic to aspirin, may have allergy-like reactions and should read labels.

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.