calcium benzoate
Basic Information
| Field | Content |
|---|---|
| Chinese name | calcium benzoate |
| English name | calcium benzoate |
| INS/E number | INS 213 |
| Functional class | Preservative |
| Year adopted | To be added. |
| Approved by | Australia/New Zealand (FSANZ), European Union (EFSA) |
What is it?
Calcium benzoate (INS 213) is the calcium salt of benzoic acid, combining preservation with calcium supply, used in acidic foods needing calcium or avoiding sodium/potassium.
Source
Industrial：苯甲酸与钙碱中和、干燥制得食品级苯甲酸钙
Why is it used?
- Inhibits yeasts, moulds and some bacteria
- Supplies dietary calcium
- For low-sodium/low-potassium formulas
- Extends shelf life of acidic foods
- Used in some sauces and pickles
Common Foods
- Sauces
- Pickled foods
- Jams
- Beverages
- Calcium-fortified products
Safety
ADI (Acceptable Daily Intake)：0-5 mg/kg bw (as benzoic acid)
Concerns：
- 与维生素 C 在酸性下可能生成微量苯
- 高剂量增加钙摄入
Usage Standard
China：GB 2760（苯甲酸及其钙盐）
International：
- EU Regulation 1333/2008 Annex II (E 213)
- FDA 一般作为 GRAS 苯甲酸盐使用
- Codex GSFA (INS 213)
- FSANZ Food Standards Code (Calcium benzoate, 213)
In a nutshell
Calcium benzoate preserves and supplies calcium, with safety equivalent to benzoic acid.
Consumer Advice
Calcium benzoate is the calcium salt of benzoic acid and belongs to the benzoate family of preservatives used against yeasts and bacteria in drinks, pickles and condiments. It is no longer authorised for food in the EU, which keeps only benzoic acid and its sodium and potassium salts, so compliant European products should not contain it. China regulates benzoates mainly as benzoic acid and sodium benzoate. At permitted levels it is generally safe; a few sensitive people may experience reactions.
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.