E212: Potassium benzoate
What is E212?
Potassium benzoate (E212) is the potassium salt of benzoic acid. It is a white, odourless powder that is more soluble in water than benzoic acid itself and works best in acidic conditions.
Origin and production
It is produced synthetically by neutralising benzoic acid with potassium hydroxide. Benzoic acid also occurs naturally in small amounts in foods such as cranberries and cinnamon.
Why is it used?
It inhibits the growth of yeasts and moulds and is particularly popular in acidic soft drinks, including diet colas, flavoured waters and iced teas, where it is often chosen as a lower-sodium alternative to sodium benzoate.
Vegan, vegetarian and halal
Potassium benzoate is synthetic and contains no animal ingredients, so it is suitable for vegans and vegetarians.
Safety and regulation
Benzoates are authorised in the EU with maximum levels and were re-evaluated by EFSA, which identified a risk of exceeding the acceptable daily intake for some population groups. Manufacturers also manage the conditions under which benzoates and vitamin C can form trace benzene in drinks.
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 E212
