Jams and preserves often include sodium benzoate.
Sodium benzoate is a chemical compound also known as sodium benzoate , soda benzoate , or E211 . It is generally used as a food preservative , making it a food additive .
It is important to mention that these additives have no nutritional value and are not a meal on their own. Sodium benzoate and the rest of these substances are intentionally added, in controlled quantities, to drinks and foods with the aim of promoting their production, extending their useful life or altering their organoleptic properties.
What is sodium benzoate
If we look at the terms that confirm the expression, we can learn more about sodium benzoate. A benzoate is a salt that arises when benzoic acid combines with a base; Sodium , meanwhile, is a metal that is usually found naturally in the form of salt.
As for benzoic acid , this is the name for a solid element that is used in the pharmaceutical industry. It is poorly soluble in water but, on the contrary, shows great solubility in alcohol. When benzoic acid and a base (such as sodium hydroxide or caustic soda ) are combined, as we already indicated, the benzoate appears.
Sodium benzoate is a common component of soft drinks.
Its use as a preservative
Sodium benzoate inhibits the development of microorganisms , helping to minimize the deterioration of foods and drinks. That is why it is used as a preservative in jellies , sauces , preserves , candies , jams and soft drinks , for example.
With its presence, sodium benzoate hinders the growth of fungi and bacteria . To this antimicrobial property we must add that it does not alter the colors of food products and that its flavor is faint, which makes its use very widespread.
It must be considered that, for it to be effective, sodium benzoate must be found in a medium with a certain acidity ( pH less than 6 ). In this way, it is usually included together with acetic acid or citric acid .
Dangers of sodium benzoate
It is important to mention that, at a general level, sodium benzoate is approved as a preservative since it is considered safe to use. However, there are experts who emphasize the need to limit its consumption .
According to different studies, sodium benzoate can cause inflammation, pruritus, asthma and skin reactions in subjects with sensitivity to this substance. On the other hand, it is estimated that, under certain conditions and in combination with vitamin C , it could increase the risk of cancer .
Another possible effect of ingesting sodium benzoate, according to research , is hyperactivity in children.
More uses of sodium benzoate
The use of sodium benzoate goes beyond the food industry. In pharmacy , to mention one sector, it is used in the creation of medications to treat various metabolic diseases, such as non-ketotic hyperglycinemia and hyperammonemia .
When producing pyrotechnics , on the other hand, it is included to generate a whistle when the item is lit. For this purpose, it can be mixed with potassium perchlorate.