Calcium benzoate
Learn what Calcium benzoate (E213) is, why it's added to food, whether it's safe, and which products contain it.
Moderate concernWhat is Calcium benzoate?
Food additive from the category of chemical preservatives, naturally found in fruits as berries, mushrooms, cinnamon, cloves, etc. For industrial use, it is chemically obtained from toluene. Benzoic acid and benzoates 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 greater than 5 (slightly acidic or neutral). Excessive doses may give an overly sour taste. Benzoates are also used in combination with sorbates in products such as flavored non-alcoholic beverages (soft drinks), light alcoholic drinks, concentrated liquid tea (used in dispensers), some preserved fruit and vegetable products, low-sugar jams and jellies, olives and olive-based products, fish products, crustaceans, shrimp, mollusks, emulsified and non-emulsified sauces, spices, seasonings, mustard, prepared salads, dairy-based desserts that are not heat-treated, liquid egg preservation, special medical diet foods, liquid dietary supplements, and chewing gum.
Why is Calcium benzoate added to food?
Calcium benzoate (E213) is a preservative commonly found in: Non-alcoholic beverages, emulsified sauces, desserts.
Permitted quantity: The acceptable daily intake for human consumption is up to 5 mg/kg body weight.
Is Calcium benzoate safe?
Moderate concern
In some sensitive individuals, benzoic acid and benzoates can cause allergic reactions, and in asthmatics, they may worsen characteristic symptoms.
Is Calcium benzoate banned anywhere?
✓ Not currently banned in the EU or known to be restricted in other countries.
Is Calcium benzoate okay for kids?
Not allowed in products for infants and young children.
Common foods that contain Calcium benzoate
- Non-alcoholic beverages
- emulsified sauces
- desserts
How to spot Calcium benzoate on labels
Look for any of these names in the ingredients list:
- E213
- Calcium benzoate
Common misspellings to watch for:
- calcium benzoate
- caleium benzoate
- ealcium benzoate
- calcium benzodte
- cdlcium benzoate
- calclum benzoate
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 asthma or respiratory conditions. • Avoid use during pregnancy and breastfeeding without consulting a doctor. • Individuals with kidney or liver conditions should consult a doctor before use.
Also known as
- calcium benzoate
- caleium benzoate
- ealcium benzoate
- calcium benzodte
- cdlcium benzoate
- calclum benzoate
Scan products with BioBrief
Not sure if a product contains Calcium benzoate? BioBrief scans the barcode and instantly shows you every additive in the ingredients list — including E213 — with a plain-language explanation.
Frequently asked questions about Calcium benzoate
- Is Calcium benzoate safe to eat?
- In some sensitive individuals, benzoic acid and benzoates can cause allergic reactions, and in asthmatics, they may worsen characteristic symptoms.
- Is Calcium benzoate banned anywhere?
- Calcium benzoate is not currently banned in the EU or known to be restricted in other countries.
- Is Calcium benzoate safe for children?
- Not allowed in products for infants and young children.
- How do I spot Calcium benzoate on a food label?
- Look for E213, Calcium benzoate in the ingredients list. It may also appear as: calcium benzoate, caleium benzoate, ealcium benzoate.
Ingredients change. Always check the actual product label before purchasing. Information on this page is for educational purposes only.