Benzoate of soda

Benzoate of Soda or Sodium Benzoate is a type of salt that is commonly used as a food preservative. It is derived from benzoic acid and is recognized by the E number E211.

Chemical Properties

Sodium Benzoate has the chemical formula C6H5COONa. It is a white, crystalline or granular powder that is slightly soluble in water. It is usually produced by the neutralization of benzoic acid with sodium bicarbonate, sodium carbonate, or sodium hydroxide. The reaction is exothermic and the resulting sodium benzoate is then purified and dried.

Uses

Sodium Benzoate is primarily used as a food preservative due to its ability to inhibit the growth of certain types of bacteria, yeast, and mold. It is commonly found in acidic foods such as vinegar, carbonated drinks, fruit juice, and sauces. It is also used in the cosmetic and pharmaceutical industries as a preservative in products such as shampoo, body lotion, and cough syrup.

Safety and Health Effects

While Sodium Benzoate is generally recognized as safe by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), there are some concerns about its potential health effects. Some studies have suggested that it may cause hyperactivity in children, while others have linked it to asthma and allergic reactions. However, these findings are not conclusive and more research is needed to fully understand the potential health effects of Sodium Benzoate.

Environmental Impact

Sodium Benzoate is readily biodegradable and is not expected to persist in the environment. However, its widespread use as a food preservative means that it is often found in wastewater. While it is not considered to be a significant environmental hazard, there are concerns about its potential impact on aquatic life.