Sodium benzoate is a white crystalline powder that is commonly used as a food preservative. It is made by combining benzoic acid and sodium hydroxide, which helps it dissolve in products. Sodium benzoate is used to inhibit the growth of potentially harmful bacteria, mold, and other microbes in food, thus deterring spoilage. It is particularly effective in acidic foods and is commonly used in foods such as soda, bottled lemon juice, pickles, jelly, salad dressing, soy sauce, and other condiments. Sodium benzoate is also used in personal care products such as mouthwash, hair products, sunscreen, moisturizers, serums, and baby wipes as an anti-corrosive and preservative.
Positive aspects of sodium benzoate include its ability to extend the shelf life of food products and prevent spoilage from harmful bacteria, yeasts, and molds. It is also used as a treatment for urea cycle disorders due to its ability to bind amino acids and decrease ammonia levels.
Negative aspects of sodium benzoate include the fact that it can cause negative side effects when mixed with ascorbic acid (vitamin C) . Additionally, some studies have suggested that it may be linked to hyperactivity in children and may cause allergic reactions in some individuals. However, the FDA has deemed sodium benzoate generally recognized as safe (GRAS) when used as a preservative in food with a maximum usage of 0.1% .
Ingredients or materials used to make sodium benzoate include benzoic acid and sodium hydroxide.
