Benzoic acid
Learn what Benzoic acid (E210) is, why it's added to food, whether it's safe, and which products contain it.
Moderate concernWhat is Benzoic acid?
Benzoic acid (E210) is a food additive from the category of chemical preservatives, naturally present in fruits as berries, mushrooms, cinnamon, cloves, etc. For industrial use, it is obtained through chemical processes from toluene. Benzoic acid and its salts are used as preservatives against yeasts and molds in acidic products. They are not very effective against bacteria and ineffective in products with a pH higher than 5 (slightly acidic or neutral). High doses give an excessively sour taste. Benzoates are also used in combination with sorbates in products such as non-alcoholic flavored beverages (soft drinks), weak alcoholic drinks, liquid tea concentrates (used in dispensers), certain preserved fruit and vegetable products, low-sugar jams and jellies, olives and olive-based products, fish products, seafood, shrimp, mollusks, emulsified and non-emulsified sauces, spices, seasonings, mustard, prepared salads, dairy-based desserts that are not thermally treated, liquid egg preservation, special medical diet foods, liquid dietary supplements, and chewing gum. Once ingested, benzoic acid is absorbed in the digestive tract and then metabolized in the liver, resulting in hippuric acid, which is excreted in the urine.
Why is Benzoic acid added to food?
Benzoic acid (E210) is a preservative commonly found in: Non-alcoholic beverages, emulsified sauces, desserts.
Permitted quantity: Maximum allowable daily intake for humans is up to 5 mg/kg body weight.
Is Benzoic acid safe?
Moderate concern
In some sensitive individuals, benzoic acid and benzoates can cause allergic reactions, and in asthmatic individuals, they can worsen symptoms.
Is Benzoic acid banned anywhere?
✓ Not currently banned in the EU or known to be restricted in other countries.
Is Benzoic acid okay for kids?
Not allowed in products for infants and young children.
Common foods that contain Benzoic acid
- Non-alcoholic beverages
- emulsified sauces
- desserts
How to spot Benzoic acid on labels
Look for any of these names in the ingredients list:
- E210
- Benzoic acid
Common misspellings to watch for:
- benzoic acld
- benzoie acid
- benzolc acid
- benzoic aeid
- benzoic dcid
- benzoic acid
Better alternatives
• May cause allergic reactions, such as skin rashes, itching, or swelling, especially in individuals sensitive to benzoates. • Not recommended for use in individuals with bronchial asthma or respiratory conditions. • Avoid use during pregnancy and breastfeeding without consulting a doctor. • Can cause gastrointestinal irritation at high doses. • Individuals with kidney or liver conditions should consult a doctor before use.
Also known as
- benzoic acld
- benzoie acid
- benzolc acid
- benzoic aeid
- benzoic dcid
- benzoic acid
Scan products with BioBrief
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Frequently asked questions about Benzoic acid
- Is Benzoic acid safe to eat?
- In some sensitive individuals, benzoic acid and benzoates can cause allergic reactions, and in asthmatic individuals, they can worsen symptoms.
- Is Benzoic acid banned anywhere?
- Benzoic acid is not currently banned in the EU or known to be restricted in other countries.
- Is Benzoic acid safe for children?
- Not allowed in products for infants and young children.
- How do I spot Benzoic acid on a food label?
- Look for E210, Benzoic acid in the ingredients list. It may also appear as: benzoic acld, benzoie acid, benzolc acid.
Ingredients change. Always check the actual product label before purchasing. Information on this page is for educational purposes only.