Preservative Sodium Benzoate
SODIUM BENZOATE
Sodium benzoate (E211), is the salt product of benzoic acid. Sodium benzoate has been used to cover or enhance the scent of products and also as an anticorrosive. It is also used as a preservative. It is excellent at inhibiting the growth of fungi, yeast and bacteria in food, beverages and personal care products. Sodium benzoate is naturally occurring in fruits such as apples, cranberries, prunes and plums.
The salt is not found to occur naturally. This reaction makes it soluble in water (benzoic acid on its own isn’t soluble in water).
The ingredient is used as an antimicrobial agent and as a flavoring agent and adjuvant.
Sodium benzoate is a food grade, biodegradable preservative made from the salt of benzoic acid.
It helps keep products shelf stable for at least two years. It is used in concentrations of less than 0.5% by volume.
French inspection and certification body Ecocert, has certified the ingredient for use in organic cosmetics and the FDA considers sodium benzoate “Generally Recognized as Safe” (GRAS).
It is often manufactured as a byproduct of combining oxygen with toluene, which can occur naturally in the tolu tree or crude oil.
Cases of urticaria, asthma, rhinitis, or anaphylactic shock have been reported following oral, dermal, or inhalation exposure to sodium benzoate.
Sodium Benzoate is not well tolerated by people with eczema or dermatitis. Those with sensitive skin should avoid it. (Babies’ skin is sensitive).
To be avoided with Vitamin C/ascorbic acid. When sodium benzoate is paired with vitamin C or ascorbic acid as a preservative, it can turn into benzene and become a potent carcinogen, which is linked to cancer.
If sodium benzoate is heated, it can become more unstable and reactive (like leaving a wipes packet in a hot car or pram).
It’s not like a naturally occurring compound that occurs in the human body, but it is concerning. It’s important that we take into consideration that this ingredient is a precursor to benzene. (A carcinogen)
Sodium Benzoate can slightly inhibit the skin microbiota.
Sodium benzoate is permitted as a preservative by all organic certification bodies worldwide. Use with caution.
