FOOD ADDITIVE

E211

Sodium Benzoate

Most complete information about food additive Sodium Benzoate (E211) - What is it? Is it harmful to health?

E211 (Sodium Benzoate) - Synthetic preservative to inhibit growth of bacteria, yeast and mold in food products
консервант • Preservative • Antimicrobial action • Wide application range
✓ Approved with dosage restrictions (ADI 5 mg/kg body weight)
CN: Approved in China with dosage restrictions in certain products EU: Approved by European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) JP: Approved in Japan as food additive with established norms RU: Approved in food industry according to TR CU 029/2012 US: FDA GRAS status since 1908, maximum concentration 0.1%

Sodium Benzoate (E211) - Synthetic Preservative

Sodium benzoate is widely used in food industry as effective preservative against microorganisms. Has proven safety when established consumption norms are followed.

🌿
ORIGIN
plant
Chemical synthesis
⚕️
SAFETY
разрешена
Safe with dosage control
👶
FOR CHILDREN
Limited approval
Recommended consumption limitation for children
🤰
PREGNANCY
Approved with caution
Safe when daily limits are followed

📊 Daily Intake Norm (ADI)

5.00 mg/kg
Established Daily Dose
According to JECFA/EFSA
350 mg
Maximum for 70 kg person
Safe Amount per Day

⚡

✅ :

  • Effectively prevents food spoilage by microorganisms
  • Reduces risk of food poisoning
  • Extends product shelf life

⚠️ :

  • May cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals
  • In combination with vitamin C may form benzene
  • High doses may cause hyperactivity in children

💊 :

Gout treatment medications: (moderate) - May affect uric acid levels
Tetracycline antibiotics: (mild) - Possible reduction in antibiotic effectiveness
Antiepileptic drugs: (mild) - May slightly affect metabolism

🔬 Chemical Properties

Formula: C₇H₅NaO₂
Molar Mass: 144.1053 g/mol
Appearance: White crystalline powder or granules odorless
Solubility: Freely soluble in water (62.7 g/100 ml at 20°C), sparingly in ethanol
CAS Number: 532-32-1
Melting Point: 300°C (разлагается)
Quality Standards: US Pharmacopeia (USP), European Pharmacopoeia (Ph. Eur.), GOST 3323-2017

🏷️ Identification in Ingredients

Look on Package For:

E211 Sodium Benzoate Sodium BenzoateE211Benzoate of Soda

Commonly Found In:

  • Carbonated drinks (150-200 mg/l)
  • Fruit juices and nectars (200-300 mg/l)
  • Sauces (ketchup, mayonnaise) (500-1000 mg/kg)
  • Confectionery products (300-500 mg/kg)
  • Margarines and spreads (800-1200 mg/kg)

📊 Comparison with other colorants

Code
Name
Origin
Safety
Action
E211
Sodium Benzoate
synthetic
approved
E202
Details
E210
Details
E212
Details

🎯 Consumption Simulator E211

Estimate your daily intake of sodium benzoate through various food products

0 mg
Current Consumption sodium benzoate
Optimal Level
Optimal
Normal
Excess
0 mg 175 mg 350 mg

Explanation: Exceeding the norm established by EFSA does not mean immediate harm, but is recommended for safe regular consumption.

Select products you consumed today:

📊Personal Norm Calculation

Daily Intake Norm: up to 5.00 mg per kg body weight

Recommended Maximum: 350 mg for 70 kg person

*Calculations are for reference only

*Actual content depends on manufacturer

📚 Scientific Research

EFSA - Re-evaluation of sodium benzoate (E211) safety

EFSA Journal

↗ Open Research
FDA - GRAS status for sodium benzoate

FDA

↗ Open Research
Study of benzene formation in beverages

Food Chemistry

↗ Open Research

❓ Frequently Asked Questions about E211

Is sodium benzoate harmful to health?

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Sodium benzoate is considered a safe additive when established consumption norms are followed (5 mg/kg body weight per day).

Can E211 be given to children?

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Yes, but in limited quantities. Children are recommended to minimize consumption of products with preservatives.

Why is sodium benzoate banned in some countries?

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E211 is approved in most countries including Russia, EU and USA. Bans may apply to certain products or combinations.

What harm can E211 cause?

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If dosage is exceeded, allergic reactions are possible, and in combination with vitamin C - benzene formation.

Which products contain sodium benzoate?

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In carbonated drinks, juices, sauces, confectionery, margarines and other products with long shelf life.

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