What is E211? Sodium Benzoate Explained
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E211 is Sodium Benzoate — a preservative that also appears on the ADHD watchlist — in combination with vitamin C it can form benzene.
What is E211 (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.
Where is E211 found?
E211 (Sodium Benzoate) is found in bread and baked goods, wine and cider, cured meats, cheese, pickles and condiments, soft drinks.
- bread and baked goods
- wine and cider
- cured meats
- cheese
- pickles and condiments
- soft drinks
Also known as: Sodium Benzoate
Is E211 safe?
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.
Check the calorie content of foods containing E211. If you’re pregnant, see our pregnancy food safety guide. Taking supplements? Check drug and supplement interactions.
Cleaner alternatives to E211
79% protein clean-label snack
MORiSH Pork Chicharrónes
Prefer snacks with no artificial colours, preservatives or sweeteners? MORiSH pork chicharrónes are 79% protein, zero carbs and have a short, readable ingredient list.
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E211 FAQs
What is E211 in food?
E211 is Sodium Benzoate — a preservative that also appears on the ADHD watchlist — in combination with vitamin C it can form benzene.
Is E211 safe to eat?
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 E211 vegan?
E211 (Sodium Benzoate) is vegan. It is derived from synthetic, with no animal involvement in standard food production.
Is E211 halal?
E211 (Sodium Benzoate) is halal. It is derived from synthetic, which involves no haram sources.
Related Preservatives additives
Also check: safe for cats? · safe for dogs? · calorie checker · medication interactions
Data: Open Food Facts (ODbL) · EFSA