Sodium Benzoate is a chemical compound that acts as a popular preservative in many foods and drinks. It helps prevent spoilage by stopping the growth of bacteria, yeast, and mold, which keeps products fresh for longer. Many companies choose sodium benzoate because it works well and costs less than some other preservatives, though its effectiveness can vary with different foods.
The global demand for sodium benzoate keeps rising as people eat more processed foods and look for safer products.
|
Year |
Market Value (USD million) |
CAGR (%) |
|---|---|---|
|
2021 |
4.0 |
|
|
2029* |
806.5 |
|
*Forecasted value
Key Takeaways
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Sodium benzoate is a white, odorless powder used mainly as a preservative to stop bacteria, yeast, and mold from growing in foods and drinks.
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It works best in acidic foods and drinks with a pH below 4.0, where it turns into benzoic acid that blocks microbes from multiplying.
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This preservative is common in sodas, fruit juices, pickles, baked goods, cosmetics, and cleaning products because it keeps them fresh and safe.
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Regulatory agencies like the FDA approve sodium benzoate as safe when used within set limits, but mixing it with vitamin C and heat can create health risks.
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Look for sodium benzoate on labels as ‘sodium benzoate’ or the code ‘E211,’ which shows it is used to prevent spoilage in acidic products.
Sodium Benzoate Properties
Chemical Formula
Chemists identify sodium benzoate by its chemical formula. The formula is C7H5O2.Na or C6H5COONa, and it has a molecular weight of 144.1 grams per mole. These details help scientists understand how the compound reacts with other substances.
|
Property |
Value |
|---|---|
|
Chemical Formula |
C7H5O2.Na |
|
Molecular Weight |
144.1 g/mol |
Appearance
Sodium benzoate usually appears as a white, odorless powder or granule. Manufacturers prefer this form because it mixes easily with other ingredients and does not change the taste or smell of foods and drinks. The powder looks clean and does not clump, which makes it simple to measure and use.
Sodium benzoate’s colorless and scent-free nature helps keep products looking and tasting the way people expect.
Solubility
Sodium benzoate dissolves very well in water at room temperature. Scientists measure its solubility at about 50 grams per 100 milliliters of water at 25°C, which means it mixes quickly and completely. In alcohols like ethanol, sodium benzoate is only slightly soluble. This high water solubility makes it a good choice for drinks and liquid foods.
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Water solubility: High (about 62.5 grams per liter at 25°C)
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Alcohol solubility: Low
pH and Melting Point
Sodium benzoate solutions usually have a pH between 8 and 9, which means they are slightly basic. The melting point can vary depending on the sample, but most sources report values from 300°C up to 436°C. These properties help manufacturers decide how to store and use sodium benzoate in different products.
|
Source |
pH of Sodium Benzoate Solution |
Melting Point (°C) |
|---|---|---|
|
Parchem USA |
8 |
300 |
|
Honeywell |
9 (at 100 g/l, 20 °C) |
410 – 430 |
|
Univar |
8 (aqueous solution) |
436 |
Production Method
Factories make sodium benzoate by neutralizing benzoic acid with sodium compounds. The process starts with benzoic acid, which comes from several sources such as toluene, naphthalene, or benzotrichloride. Workers dissolve benzoic acid in a sodium hydroxide solution. This reaction creates sodium benzoate crystals and water. The crystals are then separated by evaporation or crystallization.
|
Industrial Route |
Description |
|---|---|
|
Oxidation of toluene with nitric acid to produce benzoic acid, then neutralization to sodium benzoate. |
|
|
Production from Naphthalene |
Oxidation of naphthalene using vanadium pentoxide to produce phthalic anhydride, then decarboxylation to benzoic acid, which is neutralized to sodium benzoate. |
|
Production from Benzotrichloride |
Chlorination of toluene to benzotrichloride, hydrolysis with mineral acid to benzoic acid, then neutralization to sodium benzoate. |
|
Neutralization Step |
Benzoic acid is dissolved in sodium hydroxide (or sodium carbonate/bicarbonate) solution, producing sodium benzoate crystals and water, which are isolated by evaporation or crystallization. |
Preservative Action
Antimicrobial Effects
Sodium Benzoate acts as a powerful shield against many types of harmful microbes. Scientists have found that it can stop the growth of bacteria, yeast, and mold in foods and drinks. This action helps keep products safe and fresh for longer periods. When added to foods, Sodium Benzoate works by entering the cells of these microbes. Once inside, it disrupts their energy systems and slows down their growth. This process does not kill the microbes right away but keeps them from multiplying.
Researchers have tested Sodium Benzoate against dangerous bacteria such as Listeria monocytogenes, Salmonella enterica, and Escherichia coli O157:H7. In one study, a solution with 500 to 1000 parts per million (ppm) of Sodium Benzoate stopped Listeria from growing for at least 40 hours at a slightly acidic pH. Another experiment showed that Sodium Benzoate reduced yeast and mold in corn silage, which improved the quality and safety of the feed. These results show that Sodium Benzoate can protect both food and animal products from spoilage.
The table below shows the minimum concentrations needed to stop some common foodborne pathogens:
|
Foodborne Pathogen |
MIC (µg/mL) |
MBC (µg/mL) |
|---|---|---|
|
Bacillus cereus |
125 |
500 |
|
Listeria monocytogenes |
62.5 |
250 |
|
Staphylococcus aureus |
31.25 |
125 |
|
Escherichia coli (ATCC 25922) |
>1000 |
>1000 |
|
Escherichia coli O157:H7 |
>1000 |
>1000 |
|
Klebsiella pneumoniae |
>1000 |
>1000 |
|
Salmonella Typhimurium |
>1000 |
>1000 |
|
Shigella sonnei |
>1000 |
>1000 |
|
Vibrio cholerae |
>1000 |
>1000 |
|
Vibrio parahaemolyticus |
>1000 |
>1000 |
Note: MIC stands for Minimum Inhibitory Concentration, and MBC stands for Minimum Bactericidal Concentration.
Sodium Benzoate works best against bacteria like Staphylococcus aureus and Listeria monocytogenes at lower concentrations. For other bacteria, such as E. coli and Salmonella, higher amounts are needed.
Many scientific reviews and experiments have confirmed these effects. For example, food products treated with Sodium Benzoate show much lower counts of bacteria and fungi. In fruit juices, this preservative slows down changes in acidity, sugar, and color, helping the juice stay fresh for up to 90 days.
Effectiveness in Acidic Conditions
The power of Sodium Benzoate as a preservative depends on the acidity of the food or drink. It works best in acidic environments, where the pH is below 4.0. In these conditions, Sodium Benzoate changes into benzoic acid, which can easily enter the cells of microbes. Once inside, benzoic acid disrupts the cell’s energy production and stops the microbe from growing.
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Sodium Benzoate’s antibacterial effect is strongest in acidic foods like fruit juices, pickles, and soy sauce.
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It does not work well in neutral or alkaline foods, so manufacturers do not use it in those products.
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The undissociated form of benzoic acid is the key to its effectiveness, as it can pass through microbial cell membranes and block their metabolism.
Scientists have found that Sodium Benzoate is not effective in foods with a high pH. In alkaline conditions, it cannot change into benzoic acid, so it cannot stop microbes from growing. This is why companies use it mainly in acidic foods and drinks.
Tip: To get the most benefit from Sodium Benzoate, food makers should use it in products with a low pH.
Many studies and reviews, such as those by Leyva Salas and Linke, support the use of Sodium Benzoate in acidic foods. These sources highlight its ability to slow down spoilage and keep food safe for longer periods.
Sodium Benzoate Uses
Food and Beverage
Many food and beverage companies rely on sodium benzoate to keep products fresh and safe. This preservative works well in acidic foods and drinks. Bakeries use it in breads, cakes, pies, and tortillas to stop mold and bacteria from growing. Soft drink makers add it to lemon sodas, cola, and fruit-flavored beverages. It also appears in jarred pickles, soy sauce, and salad dressings.
|
Product Category |
Examples |
|---|---|
|
Acidic or Tangy Foods |
Sodas, fruit juices, pickles, salad dressings, soy sauce, condiments |
|
Snack Foods |
Various snack items |
|
Baked Goods |
Breads, cakes, pies, tortillas |
|
Beverages |
Wines |
Most carbonated drinks contain sodium benzoate at concentrations between 60 and 150 mg/kg. Some brands, such as Sprite and 7up, have average levels from 140 to 191 µg/ml. These amounts help prevent spoilage without changing the taste.
Tip: Sodium benzoate is especially important in foods that spoil quickly, like fruit juices and snack foods.
Cosmetics and Personal Care
Cosmetic and personal care companies use sodium benzoate as a preservative. It helps stop fungi and some bacteria from growing in products like baby lotions, bath soaps, and shampoos. Many brands combine it with other preservatives, such as potassium sorbate, to make products safer. Sodium benzoate also acts as a corrosion inhibitor and a fragrance ingredient. Safety experts and regulatory agencies, including the FDA and European Union, have approved its use in cosmetics at certain levels. Most people do not have skin reactions, but rare mild effects can occur.
Other Applications
Sodium benzoate has uses outside food and cosmetics. Cleaning product makers add it to all-purpose cleaners, dish soaps, and glass cleaners. It acts as a safer preservative compared to traditional chemicals. The FDA lists it as Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS), which supports its use in cleaning products that may touch food surfaces. In the automotive industry, sodium benzoate serves as a corrosion inhibitor in antifreeze and other chemical mixtures.
Safety and Regulation
Approved Levels
Regulatory agencies set strict limits for how much sodium benzoate can be added to foods. In the United States, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) allows sodium benzoate in meat and poultry products at a maximum of 0.1% by weight. This rule also applies when sodium benzoate is used with other preservatives like sodium propionate or sodium diacetate. The total amount of all these preservatives cannot go over 0.1%. International groups, such as the Codex Committee on Food Additives, follow the same limit for cured and dried meats. These rules help keep food safe and require clear labeling of sodium benzoate on ingredient lists.
Health Considerations
Most people can safely eat foods with sodium benzoate when it stays within approved limits. Problems can happen if the amount goes above these limits. One risk is the formation of benzene, a chemical that can cause cancer. This can occur when sodium benzoate mixes with vitamin C in drinks and sits in heat or light. Studies have found some drinks with sodium benzoate above safe levels, which increases health risks. Some people may also have mild allergic reactions, such as skin rashes or asthma-like symptoms. Scientists have studied sodium benzoate in healthy adults and found no serious effects at normal levels. However, experts say more research is needed to understand long-term effects, especially for people who drink a lot of soft drinks.
|
Aspect |
Details |
|---|---|
|
Key Risk |
|
|
Health Effects |
Possible cancer risk, rare allergic reactions, potential hyperactivity in children |
|
Regulatory Status |
Safe at approved levels, but caution needed with high intake |
Note: Regulatory agencies recommend keeping sodium benzoate and vitamin C apart in products to lower the risk of benzene.
E211 Designation
Food labels in many countries use the code E211 to show that sodium benzoate is present. The E211 code comes from the European Union’s system for food additives. This code helps people quickly identify sodium benzoate in ingredient lists. E211 means the product uses sodium benzoate as a preservative, especially in acidic foods like sodas, jams, and pickles. The E211 code also matches international standards, making it easier for companies and consumers to understand food labels around the world.
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E211 is the official code for sodium benzoate in the EU and many other countries.
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It shows that the additive is approved and used mainly to stop spoilage in acidic foods and drinks.
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The code helps standardize food labeling and supports food safety.
Sodium Benzoate stands out as a reliable preservative with strong chemical stability and high water solubility.
Its main uses include food, beverages, cosmetics, and medicines.
The table below highlights key chemical properties:
|
Property |
Value |
|---|---|
|
Chemical Formula |
C7H5NaO2 |
|
Appearance |
|
|
Solubility |
High in water |
|
Melting Point |
Regulatory agencies like the FDA recognize its safety when used within approved limits, supporting its continued use in many industries.
FAQ
What is sodium benzoate used for?
Sodium benzoate helps keep foods, drinks, and cosmetics fresh. It stops bacteria, yeast, and mold from growing. Many companies use it in sodas, salad dressings, shampoos, and cleaning products.
Is sodium benzoate safe to eat?
Scientists and health agencies say sodium benzoate is safe when used at approved levels. Most people do not have problems with it. Some may have mild reactions, such as skin rashes or asthma-like symptoms.
Why does sodium benzoate work best in acidic foods?
Sodium benzoate changes into benzoic acid in acidic foods. Benzoic acid can enter microbes and stop them from growing. This process works best when the pH is below 4.0.
Can sodium benzoate cause allergies?
A few people may have mild allergic reactions to sodium benzoate. These reactions can include skin rashes or breathing problems. Most people do not have any issues.
How can I find sodium benzoate on food labels?
Look for “sodium benzoate” or the code “E211” on ingredient lists. Many countries use E211 to show that sodium benzoate is in the product.
