Sodium benzoate is a substance which has the chemical formula NaC7H5O2. It is a widely used food preservative, with an E number of E211. It is the sodium salt of benzoic acid and exists in this form when dissolved in water. It can be produced by reacting sodium hydroxide with benzoic acid. Sodium benzoate is a synthetic chemical produced when benzoic acid, which is found naturally in some fruits and spices, is combined with sodium hydroxide.
Sodium benzoate is a preservative commonly used in fruit pies, jams, beverages, salads, relishes, and sauerkraut – foods that have an acidic pH. Chemical preservatives, such as sodium benzoate are frequently used in processed foods to prevent the growth of bacteria, yeast or other nasty microorganisms that could spoil food. Sodium benzoate is a food preservative that occurs naturally in some fruits. The chemical is the sodium salt of benzoic acid and is considered safe to ingest and apply to the skin. It should not be used in certain acidic products because it may combine to form harmful compounds, but it is not toxic and does not irritate tissue.
Sodium benzoate is tagged as a harmful preservative and its use is limited in some industries. It is easily soluble and affordable which widens its usage, but research revealed that the overuse of this chemical solvent can cause cancer by affecting the oxygen cells present in the body. Though this chemical is present in some fruits, but the addition of the synthetic form of sodium benzoate is extremely lethal for the body. Sodium benzoate is found in vinegar, soda, fruit juices and jams which are present in the daily diet of the every citizen in the world. The expanding world of consumerism is in dire need of foods which can be packed and stored for days and the fast lifestyle of the people are promoting the expansion of a food and cosmetics industry which is completely backed by harmful chemical preservatives.
The global sodium benzoate market to grow at a CAGR of 4.49% during the period 2017-2021. Rising demand for processed foods and ready to drink beverages has led to high demand for sodium benzoate in the market. Sodium benzoate eliminates the growth of bacteria and molds which helps preventing spoilage of food and drinks. Hence, high demand is reported for sodium benzoate from the food & beverages industry. Cosmetics application accounted for the second largest share of global sodium benzoate market. Owing to its extremely low level of toxicity it is used as a preservative in cosmetics products.