Benzoate
What is Benzoate?
Benzoate is a salt or ester of benzoic acid. Benzoic acid occurs naturally in many plants, such as cranberries, plums, and cinnamon. Commercially, it is often produced synthetically from toluene, a petroleum derivative.
Is Benzoate vegan?
Benzoate is not animal-derived. Products that contain it can still include other animal-derived ingredients, so check the full ingredient list.
Is Benzoate a major allergen?
Benzoate itself is not one of the 14 major allergens that UK law requires to be emphasised on food labels.
What is Benzoate used for?
Benzoates are primarily used as preservatives in foods and drinks to inhibit the growth of bacteria, yeasts, and moulds.
Is Benzoate safe?
Benzoates are authorised food additives in Great Britain and are listed on the Register of Food Additive Authorisations.
Why it's used
Benzoates are primarily used as preservatives in foods and drinks to inhibit the growth of bacteria, yeasts, and moulds. They are particularly effective in acidic conditions. You'll find them in a range of products, including soft drinks, fruit juices, jams, and some baked goods.
Health notes
Benzoates are authorised food additives in Great Britain and are listed on the Register of Food Additive Authorisations. They have been evaluated by EFSA, which has established an acceptable daily intake (ADI). Some studies have suggested a possible link between certain benzoate preservatives and hyperactivity in children, but the evidence is mixed and regulatory bodies continue to monitor this area. At typical intake levels found in food, they are considered safe by regulatory authorities.
Allergen info
Benzoate itself is not one of the 14 major allergens that UK law requires to be emphasised on food labels. It is not derived from any of these allergens.
Foods that contain Benzoate
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