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E211Avoid

Sodium benzoate

Group: Preservatives · in the book

Harm level4 of 5Better avoid

In plain words

It is the sodium salt of benzoic acid and one of the most common preservatives in acidic foods. You will find it mainly in soft drinks, lemonades, ketchup, dressings and pickles.

Where you find it: sweetened and fruit drinks, sauces, pickles

Our recommendation

Best avoided, especially in soft drinks for children; people with asthma should be particularly careful.

Possible risks and effects

  • With vitamin C, benzene can form in drinks.
  • Possible link to hyperactivity in children when combined with colours.
  • Pseudo-allergic reactions (hives, asthma) in sensitive people.

For experts

Sodium benzoate converts to active benzoic acid in acidic conditions and falls under the group ADI of 5 mg/kg body weight per day confirmed by EFSA in 2016. In drinks containing ascorbic acid (E300), carcinogenic benzene can form with heat or light, usually at low levels. It was part of the mixture tested in the 2007 Southampton study, which linked colours plus benzoate to increased hyperactivity in children; the effect of benzoate alone cannot be separated.

Check another E-number

More from this group

E249Potassium nitriteE250Sodium nitriteE210Benzoic acidE220Sulphur dioxideE223Sodium metabisulphiteE224Potassium metabisulphiteE251Sodium nitrateE252Potassium nitrate

This information is educational and based on EFSA assessments and available studies; it does not replace medical advice. With allergies, intolerances or illness, follow your doctor’s advice.