What is E211?
E211 is Sodium Benzoate — a widely used preservative that stops bacteria and mould in acidic foods — linked to hyperactivity when combined with certain colours.
What is E211 (Sodium Benzoate)?
E211 is the E-number for sodium benzoate, one of the preservatives group of food additives (E200–E299). Additives in this group prevent spoilage by stopping the growth of bacteria, moulds and yeasts. The sodium salt of benzoic acid, produced synthetically. Sodium benzoate was included in the 2007 Southampton study on hyperactivity in children, and can form small amounts of benzene when combined with vitamin C in drinks — which is why manufacturers have reformulated many products. Like every E-number, E211 has been evaluated and authorised for use in food in the European Union — the 'E' literally stands for Europe, and a number is only granted after a safety assessment. That authorisation doesn't mean every additive suits every diet or that all concerns are settled, which is why we break down the safety, vegan, vegetarian and halal status of E211 in detail below.
Where is E211 found?
E211 is typically used in soft drinks, dried fruit, processed meats, sauces, baked goods and wine. You'll find it listed in the ingredients either by its E-number (E211) or by its full name, sodium benzoate. Common foods that may contain E211 include:
- Fizzy drinks
- Squash and fruit juice drinks
- Pickles
- Sauces and salad dressings
- Jams
Full guide: foods containing E211 and how to spot it on labels →
E211 is often searched by its common name — see also: Is Sodium Benzoate safe?
Is E211 safe?
E211 is approved for use in the EU, UK and US at regulated levels, but some concerns or conditions apply. It was included in the 2007 Southampton study on food additives and hyperactivity in children, and some parents choose to avoid it for that reason. Sulphites are among the 14 major allergens that must be declared on food labels, because they can trigger asthma attacks and allergic-type reactions in sensitive people. For most people, normal dietary exposure to E211 is not considered harmful.
EFSA status: Authorised in the EU — acceptable daily intake (ADI) or conditions of use apply
Source: European Food Safety Authority
Is E211 vegan?
E211 is vegan. The sodium salt of benzoic acid, produced synthetically, with no animal involvement in standard production.
Full vegan status guide for E211 →Is E211 halal?
E211 is halal. The sodium salt of benzoic acid, produced synthetically, with no haram source involved.
Full halal status guide for E211 →Frequently Asked Questions
What is E211 in food?
E211 is Sodium Benzoate — a widely used preservative that stops bacteria and mould in acidic foods — linked to hyperactivity when combined with certain colours.
Is E211 safe to eat?
E211 is approved at regulated levels in the EU, UK and US, but some concerns exist — see the safety section above. Most people can consume it in normal amounts without harm.
Is E211 vegan?
E211 is vegan. The sodium salt of benzoic acid, produced synthetically, with no animal involvement in standard production.
Is E211 halal?
E211 is halal. The sodium salt of benzoic acid, produced synthetically, with no haram source involved.
Also check: is this ingredient safe for cats? · safe for dogs? · check the calorie content of foods containing this
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Additive data sourced from Open Food Facts (ODbL licence) and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA).