1. Basic Information
• Chinese Name: 苯甲酸钠
• English Name: Sodium Benzoate
• Chemical Formula: C₆H₅COONa
• Function: Food Preservative
• International Code: E211
Sodium benzoate is the sodium salt of benzoic acid. It is highly water-soluble and acts mainly in the form of benzoic acid under acidic conditions to provide antimicrobial preservation. It is especially suitable for acidic foods.
2. Mechanism of Action
In acidic environments, sodium benzoate converts into benzoic acid, which can penetrate microbial cell membranes and inhibit the activity of metabolic enzymes. This action effectively inhibits the growth of yeasts, molds, and some bacteria.
Its efficacy significantly decreases at pH values above 5.5, so it is best used in acidic products.
3. Main Application Scenarios
| Product Type | Examples |
| Soy sauce | Light and dark soy sauce |
| Vinegar | Rice vinegar, white vinegar |
| Chili sauces | Fermented chili paste, hot sauces |
| Compound sauces | Oyster sauce, teriyaki, BBQ sauces |
| Pickled condiments | Pickled garlic, radish, vegetables |
| Seasoning pastes | Miso paste, soybean paste, curry base |
4. Optimal Use Conditions
• Ideal pH range: 2.5 to 4.0
• Recommended timing: Add during the mixing or blending phase to ensure even distribution.
• Combination: Can be used in synergy with potassium sorbate or calcium propionate for broader antimicrobial coverage.
5. Regulations & Dosage Limits
| Regulatory Body | Application Area | Maximum Limit |
| China GB 2760 | Seasonings, soy sauce | ≤ 0.2 g/kg (as benzoic acid) |
| Codex Alimentarius | Sauces, pickled foods | 1000 mg/kg (0.1%) |
| US FDA | General food use | GRAS, typically ≤ 0.1% |
6. Safety & Considerations
• Sodium benzoate is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by major regulatory authorities.
• Overuse or combination with ascorbic acid (Vitamin C) under certain conditions may produce trace amounts of benzene; this can be avoided through proper formulation and dosage control.
7. Summary
Thanks to its broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity, high safety profile, and cost efficiency, sodium benzoate is widely used in the seasoning industry. It performs best in acidic environments and remains an ideal preservative for soy sauce, sauces, pickled seasonings, and other acid-based flavor products.
Heathy Chemical reserves the final right of interpretation for the article.
