Sodium Benzoate

Caution preservative

Widely used preservative. Can form benzene with vitamin C. Southampton study linked to hyperactivity.

Source: EFSA 2016; FSA Southampton 2007

Also Known As

E211 benzoate of soda

Regulatory Status

  • FDA (US): Permitted Source
  • EFSA (EU): ADI maintained; benzene formation possible Source
  • EU Regulation: Permitted Source
  • SFA (Singapore): Permitted Source

Can react with ascorbic acid (vitamin C) to form benzene, a known Group 1 carcinogen; also part of Southampton hyperactivity-linked colour mix.

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