Sodium Benzoate (E211)
Sodium benzoate (E211) is a preservative in soft drinks, sauces and pickles. It is authorised in the EU. Some people react to it, and cats handle benzoates poorly.
What it is
It stops yeast and mould in acidic foods. Cosmetics use it too. Benzoic acid also occurs naturally in some fruit, such as cranberries.
How IngrediScan rates it
These levels come from the fixed rules in the IngrediScan app. A low level means the rules found little or no concern for that profile. It does not mean the ingredient is safe for everyone.
| Profile | Food | Skin (cosmetics) |
|---|---|---|
| Adult | Medium | Low |
| Child | Medium | Low |
| Infant | Medium | Low |
| Dog | Low | No concern found |
| Cat | High | No concern found |
For people, the app notes benzoate sensitivity, which is reported in people with asthma or aspirin intolerance. For children and infants it uses the Southampton findings, where benzoate was part of the tested mixtures. Cats conjugate benzoic acid poorly, so the app treats benzoate as a real risk for them. For dogs the concern is small.
Basis of the ratings: limited or mixed data, errs on safety; published studies.
Possible concerns: Allergenic, Irritant, Hyperactivity in children, Neurotoxic.
The app's rationale (exact text)
- Adult (food): Benzoate sensitivity in aspirin-intolerant and asthmatic adults.
- Adult (skin), Child (skin), Infant (skin): Preservative with mild irritation load at cosmetic use levels; restricted use levels under Reg. 1223/2009 Annex V.
- Child (food), Infant (food): Southampton benzoate arm plus benzoate sensitivity in aspirin-intolerant and asthmatic individuals.
- Dog (food): Benzoate sensitivity reported in sensitive individuals; precautionary Low for dogs.
- Cat (food): Cats conjugate benzoic acid poorly via glucuronidation: CNS and metabolic toxicity risk; High.
Rules and use
Authorised preservative in the EU, with maximum levels per food. EFSA re-evaluated benzoic acid and benzoates in 2016. In cosmetics it is restricted by Annex V of Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009. EFSA set a group acceptable daily intake of 5 mg per kg body weight per day for benzoic acid and benzoates.
Read the guide: Food colours and children
Sources
- Reg. (EU) 1169/2011, Annex II: substances causing allergies
- Reg. (EU) 2023/1545: labelling of fragrance allergens in cosmetics
- EFSA 2008: evaluation of the Southampton study on additives and child behaviour
- EFSA 2016: re-evaluation of benzoic acid and benzoates (E 210-213)
- McCann et al. 2007 (Lancet): food additives and hyperactivity in children
- Regulation (EC) 1223/2009 on cosmetic products
- Merck Veterinary Manual: food hazards for pets
Related ingredients
The assessment is for information only. It does not replace the manufacturer's label or advice from a doctor or vet. Text recognition (OCR) can miss part of a label. No result does not mean the product is safe.