Is Sodium Benzoate Safe? E211 Explained
Sodium Benzoate is E211 (Sodium Benzoate) — a preservative that also appears on the ADHD watchlist — in combination with vitamin C it can form benzene.
What is Sodium Benzoate?
E211 is Sodium Benzoate, a food additive classified as a preservative that extend shelf life by preventing microbial growth. A preservative that also appears on the adhd watchlist — in combination with vitamin c it can form benzene. You'll find it in bread and baked goods, wine and cider, cured meats and many other packaged foods. Sodium Benzoate is one of the better-known food additives and appears regularly in label-reading guides and dietary discussions. Like every E-number, E211 has been authorised for use in food following an EFSA safety evaluation — though authorisation doesn't mean concern-free, as the safety section below explains.
Is Sodium Benzoate bad for you?
E211 is authorised in the EU and UK but carries genuine concerns. E211 is one of the Southampton Six (or associated additives) — EFSA's 2012 opinion confirmed a link to hyperactivity in children when consumed in combination, and the EU requires foods containing it to carry the warning 'may have an adverse effect on activity and attention in children' E211 is a sulphite or sulphite-related additive — sulphites are declared allergens that can trigger asthma and respiratory reactions in sensitive people (estimated 5–10% of asthmatics). For most people consuming Sodium Benzoate in typical quantities, health effects are unlikely — but the caution flag reflects either active scientific debate, mandatory warning labels, allergen status, or conditions attached to its authorisation.
EFSA opinion: Sodium Benzoate — status Some concerns.
Foods containing Sodium Benzoate
- bread and baked goods
- wine and cider
- cured meats
- cheese
- pickles and condiments
- soft drinks
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Sodium Benzoate FAQs
Is Sodium Benzoate bad for you?
E211 is authorised in the EU and UK but carries genuine concerns. E211 is one of the Southampton Six (or associated additives) — EFSA's 2012 opinion confirmed a link to hyperactivity in children when
Is Sodium Benzoate vegan?
E211 (Sodium Benzoate) is vegan. It is derived from synthetic, with no animal involvement in standard food production.
Is Sodium Benzoate halal?
E211 (Sodium Benzoate) is halal. It is derived from synthetic, which involves no haram sources.
Data: Open Food Facts (ODbL) · EFSA