E211: Sodium benzoate
What is E211?
Sodium benzoate (E211) is the sodium salt of benzoic acid. It is a white, water-soluble powder and is most effective as a preservative in acidic conditions, where it converts to benzoic acid.
Origin and production
Benzoic acid occurs naturally in small amounts in cranberries, cinnamon and some fermented dairy products, but sodium benzoate for food is made synthetically by neutralising benzoic acid with sodium hydroxide.
Why is it used?
It inhibits yeasts, moulds and some bacteria in acidic foods, so it is common in soft drinks, sauces, dips, pickles, fruit-based products and some desserts. It is often combined with potassium sorbate.
Vegan, vegetarian and halal
Sodium benzoate is synthesised without animal-derived ingredients and is suitable for vegans and vegetarians. It raises no particular halal or kosher issue.
Safety and regulation
Sodium benzoate is authorised in the EU with maximum levels per food category. In combination with ascorbic acid it can form traces of benzene in some drinks, which manufacturers manage through formulation; EFSA's re-evaluation of benzoates identified a risk of exceeding the acceptable daily intake for some population groups.
Written by the Foodlas editorial team with AI assistance and checked against EU Regulation (EC) No 1333/2008 and EFSA scientific opinions. Last reviewed: October 14, 2026.
Sources: Regulation (EC) No 1333/2008 · EFSA — Food additives · Wikidata
Common in
Products containing E211
