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Answer: Benzoic Acid is not currently banned worldwide, but health agencies have flagged concerns. The FDA still allows it in US food. Risk level: medium. Commonly found in: Ocean Spray Cranberry Juice, Heinz Pickles, McDonald's Sauces.
TL;DR: Benzoic Acid is allowed in the EU but allowed in the US (preservative).
Reviewed for clarity & usefulness by the BannedPantry Parent Panel
Also called E210. (E210) CAS 65-85-0.
Other names: E210, INS 210, benzenecarboxylic acid
| EU status | Allowed |
|---|---|
| US status | Allowed |
| Risk level | medium |
| Where it shows up | Ocean Spray Cranberry Juice, Heinz Pickles, McDonald's Sauces, Various store-brand sodas, Vlasic Relish |
| CAS number | 65-85-0 |
Benzoic acid is a naturally occurring aromatic carboxylic acid found in cranberries, prunes, cinnamon, and many berries. It is used as a preservative against bacteria, yeast, and fungi at pH below 4.5. In the body, benzoic acid is conjugated with glycine to form hippuric acid, which is excreted in urine.
Inhibits microbial growth in acidic foods and beverages such as soft drinks, pickles, fruit juices, and condiments.
When benzoic acid (or sodium benzoate) is combined with ascorbic acid (vitamin C) in beverages, it can form benzene, a known carcinogen classified as Group 1 by IARC. This reaction is promoted by heat and light. The FDA and EFSA monitor benzene levels in beverages and have set informal guidance limits. A 1999 Lancet publication and the subsequent 2007 'Southampton study' did not directly involve benzoic acid, but sodium benzoate was included in the tested mixture. Some individuals with aspirin sensitivity may react to benzoic acid. The ADI is 5 mg/kg body weight/day.
For educational use only. This page summarizes the regulatory status of Benzoic Acidwith citations to the primary sources below. It is not medical advice. Regulatory status is not the same as a proven health effect — read the cited sources for their exact wording, and consult a doctor for decisions about your or your family's health.
Potassium sorbate (E202), rosemary extract, and natural fruit acids provide alternative preservation options.
When combined with vitamin C (ascorbic acid) in an acidic beverage, especially with heat or light, benzene can form. The FDA monitors beverage benzene levels.
Sodium benzoate (E211) is the sodium salt of benzoic acid, both function as preservatives.
At permitted levels it is considered safe, but the benzene formation concern with vitamin C is a real, documented chemical reaction that warrants awareness.
Yes, it occurs naturally in cranberries, cinnamon, and cloves, but the food additive version is synthetically produced.
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