Potassium Benzoate
Learn what Potassium Benzoate (E212) is, why it's added to food, whether it's safe, and which products contain it.
Moderate concernWhat is Potassium Benzoate?
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 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 beverages, concentrated liquid teas (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 Potassium Benzoate added to food?
Potassium Benzoate (E212) 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 Potassium 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 Potassium Benzoate banned anywhere?
✓ Not currently banned in the EU or known to be restricted in other countries.
Is Potassium Benzoate okay for kids?
Not allowed in products for infants and young children.
Common foods that contain Potassium Benzoate
- Non-alcoholic beverages
- emulsified sauces
- desserts
See the full list of foods that contain Potassium Benzoate →
How to spot Potassium Benzoate on labels
Look for any of these names in the ingredients list:
- E212
- Potassium Benzoate
Common misspellings to watch for:
- dotassium benzoate
- potas$ium benzoate
- potassium benzodte
- potdssium benzoate
- pota$sium benzoate
- potassium benzoate
- potasslum 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
- dotassium benzoate
- potas$ium benzoate
- potassium benzodte
- potdssium benzoate
- pota$sium benzoate
- potassium benzoate
- potasslum benzoate
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Frequently asked questions about Potassium Benzoate
- Is Potassium 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 Potassium Benzoate banned anywhere?
- Potassium Benzoate is not currently banned in the EU or known to be restricted in other countries.
- Is Potassium Benzoate safe for children?
- Not allowed in products for infants and young children.
- How do I spot Potassium Benzoate on a food label?
- Look for E212, Potassium Benzoate in the ingredients list. It may also appear as: dotassium benzoate, potas$ium benzoate, potassium benzodte.
Ingredients change. Always check the actual product label before purchasing. Information on this page is for educational purposes only.