Fruit Juice sodium benzoate
Fruit Juice sodium benzoate

Sodium Benzoate

Common names: Benzoate of Soda, E211 (European Union additive code), Sodium Salt of Benzoic Acid
Benzoate Preservative, Benzoic Acid Sodium Salt
KIDSADVISORY SAFETY RATING
See methodology
Caution
Published by Dr. William Lin, MD — Last Updated on Jan 9, 2025
Medically reviewed by Dr. Patricia Shelton, MD

Sodium benzoate is a widely used food preservative that inhibits the growth of mold, yeast, and bacteria, extending the shelf life of many products. It is particularly effective in acidic environments, making it a common additive in beverages, salad dressings, and condiments. 1 The compound is synthesized by combining benzoic acid with sodium hydroxide, which enhances its solubility and effectiveness. 2

While sodium benzoate is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by regulatory bodies, concerns arise when it is combined with ascorbic acid (vitamin C), as this can lead to the formation of benzene, a known carcinogen. 3 High levels of consumption have also been linked to hyperactivity in children, prompting further investigation into its effects. 4 Despite these concerns, sodium benzoate remains a key additive in the food industry due to its efficiency and low cost.

Safety Overview

Regulatory Bodies
FDA (US)
Sodium benzoate is classified as Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) when used in food products within established limits (up to 0.1% by weight in foods).
View the FDA’s GRAS designation for Sodium benzoate.
Health Canada
Permits sodium benzoate as a food preservative under strict concentration limits. Advises that it be clearly labeled to inform consumers.
Explore Health Canada’s stance on Sodium benzoate.
EFSA (Europe)
Approved sodium benzoate (E211) as a food additive, with an acceptable daily intake (ADI) of 5 mg per kg of body weight. Recommends adhering to established limits to prevent excessive intake.
Learn more from EFSA’s advice on Sodium Benzoate.
WHO
 Includes sodium benzoate in its Codex Alimentarius, with specific concentration guidelines to ensure safety in food products globally.
Read the FAO/WHO Codex entry on sodium benzoate.
FDA GRAS
U.S. Food and Drug Administration – Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS)
Current Status
Classified
EWG Rating
Environmental Working Group
  • EWG Score: Sodium benzoate typically scores 1-2 (Best) on the EWG scale, depending on its application and formulation
  • Safety Profile: It is not listed on the EWG’s Restricted or Unacceptable Lists but may receive higher scores (indicating moderate concern) in inhalable forms, such as in sprays, due to respiratory sensitivities.
  • Moderation Recommended: While sodium benzoate is considered safe in regulated amounts, consumers are advised to monitor intake, particularly in processed foods and beverages, to minimize potential health risks.
    Learn more here on EWG’s What is sodium benzoate?

More about Sodium Benzoate

  • Beverages: Soft drinks, fruit juices, energy drinks, and flavored waters.
  • Condiments: Ketchup, salad dressings, marinades, and pickles.
  • Snacks: Packaged snacks like chips, crackers, and cookies.
  • Dairy Products: Flavored yogurts, ice cream, and dairy-based desserts.
  • Processed Foods: Jams, jellies, and sauces commonly use sodium benzoate to maintain freshness and extend shelf life.
  • Cosmetics and Personal Care: Shampoos, lotions, and deodorants as a preservative.

Historical Use
Sodium benzoate has been used since the early 20th century as a preservative in acidic foods and beverages like sodas, pickles, and jams. 1
Reduction in Use
Health concerns over benzene formation and demand for natural preservatives have led to reduced usage in some products.
Learn about sodium benzoate safety concerns
Current Exposure
Sodium benzoate remains common in soft drinks, condiments, and personal care products where regulations permit its use within safety limits.
Read about current sodium benzoate exposure

Potential Carcinogenicity
Sodium benzoate can form benzene, a known carcinogen, when combined with ascorbic acid (vitamin C) in acidic conditions, posing a potential health risk. 3
Hyperactivity in Children
Studies have linked sodium benzoate, particularly when combined with artificial food colorings, to increased hyperactivity and attention-related issues in children. 4
Allergic Reactions
Some individuals may experience allergic responses to sodium benzoate, such as skin irritation, itching, or hives, particularly with prolonged exposure. 5
Oxidative Stress
Research indicates that sodium benzoate may contribute to oxidative stress and cellular damage at high concentrations, potentially affecting long-term health. 6

  • Toxicological Studies: Toxicological research shows that sodium benzoate is generally safe at low concentrations, with an acceptable daily intake (ADI) of 5 mg/kg body weight set by the World Health Organization (WHO).7 However, higher concentrations have been associated with cellular oxidative damage and mitochondrial dysfunction in animal models. 6
  • Long-Term Safety: Long-term exposure to sodium benzoate, especially in combination with other additives, may exacerbate oxidative stress, leading to chronic inflammation and potential liver damage. 8 Regular consumption above the ADI can amplify risks, particularly in individuals with underlying health conditions or sensitivities. 6

High-Risk Groups
Vulnerable populations, such as children, individuals with asthma, and those with allergies or metabolic disorders like phenylketonuria (PKU), may be more sensitive to the effects of sodium benzoate. 9 Children are particularly at risk due to their higher consumption of processed foods containing the preservative and its potential behavioral effects. 4
Health Impacts
In high-risk groups, sodium benzoate has been associated with exacerbation of asthma symptoms and allergic reactions, including hives and skin irritation. 5 Long-term exposure in these populations may also increase oxidative stress, leading to inflammation and potential metabolic imbalances. 6
Developmental Concerns
Evidence links trans fats to impaired cognitive function, developmental delays, and long-term cardiovascular issues.

Recommended Intake
Regulatory agencies, such as the FDA, permit sodium benzoate in food and beverages at concentrations up to 0.1% by weight, equivalent to 1 gram per liter in beverages. This ensures effective preservation while minimizing health risks.
Regulatory Status
Sodium benzoate is recognized as Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) by the FDA and approved by global bodies like EFSA, provided it is used within established limits. Regular monitoring of intake is advised to avoid excessive consumption, especially in processed foods.

References

  1. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). (2021). CFR – Code of Federal Regulations Title 21 – Sodium Benzoate. Available at: https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/scripts/cdrh/cfdocs/cfcfr/cfrsearch.cfm?fr=184.1733 ↩︎
  2. Davidson, P. M., et al. (2005). Antimicrobial Agents in Foods. CRC Press. Available at:
    http://base.dnsgb.com.ua/files/book/Agriculture/Foods/Antimicrobials-in-Food.pdf ↩︎
  3. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). (2022). Questions and Answers on the Occurrence of Benzene in Soft Drinks and Other Beverages. Available at: https://www.fda.gov/food/environmental-contaminants-food/questions-and-answers-occurrence-benzene-soft-drinks-and-other-beverages ↩︎
  4. Bateman, B., et al. (2004). The effects of a double blind, placebo controlled, artificial food colourings and benzoate preservative challenge on hyperactivity in a general population sample of preschool children. Archives of Disease in Childhood, 89(6):506-11. Available at: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15155391/ ↩︎
  5. Nettis, E., Colanardi, M.C., Ferrannini, A., and Tursi, A. (2004) ‘Sodium benzoate-induced repeated episodes of acute urticaria/angio-oedema: randomized controlled trial’, British Journal of Dermatology, 151(4):898-902. Available at: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15491435/ ↩︎
  6. Nowak, A., et al. (2022) ‘Sodium Benzoate—Harmfulness and Potential Use in Therapies for Disorders Related to the Nervous System: A Review’, Nutrients, 14(7), 1459. Available at: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9003278/  ↩︎
  7. World Health Organization (WHO). (2001). Evaluation of Certain Food Additives and Contaminants: Fifty-Seventh Report of the Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives. Available at: https://iris.who.int/bitstream/handle/10665/42578/WHO_TRS_909.pdf?sequence=1 ↩︎
  8. Asejeje, F.O., Akinola, K.D., and Abiola, M.A. (2023) ‘Sodium benzoate exacerbates hepatic oxidative stress and inflammation in lipopolysaccharide-induced liver injury in rats’, Immunopharmacology and Immunotoxicology, 45(5):558-564. Available at: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36927185/.  ↩︎
  9. Babbel J., et al. (2021) ‘Adverse reactions to food additives’, Journal of Food Allergy, 3(1):8-23. Available at: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC11250194/ ↩︎

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  • 07/23/2026Briine brand Pacific Tide Sparkling Spring Water recalled due to bulging cansSee recall

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Food recalls include all food and beverages for families, excluding alcohol, caffeine, and supplements not intended for children.

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