E210 · Benzoic acid
- WHO
- Safe
- FDA
- Safe
- EFSA
- Safe
- FSANZ
- Safe
- Japan
- Safe
- UK FSA
- Safe
- Health Canada
- Safe
What is E210?
Benzoic acid is a naturally occurring aromatic acid used as a preservative to inhibit bacteria, yeast, and mould in foods and beverages, particularly acidic ones. It occurs naturally in small amounts in cranberries, apples, cherries, and cinnamon, but the additive form is typically produced synthetically. It is approved by regulators including the FDA and EFSA within specified usage limits, and is also used in cosmetics for its antimicrobial properties.
Also appears on labels as: Benzoic acid, E210, E-210, E 210, INS 210, Benzene carboxylic acid, Carboxybenzene, Phenylformic acid, Dracylic acid, Benzeneformic acid, C6H5COOH, CAS 65-85-0.
What the evidence says
- Can react with ascorbic acid (vitamin C) in soft drinks to form small amounts of benzene under heat, light, or metal-ion exposure; manufacturers apply mitigations to limit this.
- Occasional intolerance reactions (e.g., hives, worsening of asthma symptoms) reported in sensitive individuals, particularly at higher intakes.
Frequently asked questions
Is E210 safe?
Our overall verdict for E210 (Benzoic acid) is “Safe”, based on the most cautious of the major regulators’ positions — FDA: safe; WHO: safe; EFSA: safe; FSANZ: safe; Japan: safe; UK FSA: safe; Health Canada: safe.
Is E210 vegan, halal or gluten-free?
According to our ingredient data for Benzoic acid — vegan: yes, vegetarian: yes, halal: yes, kosher: yes, gluten-free: yes, dairy-free: yes. Manufacturing sources can vary between products; check the label if it matters to you.
What is E210 and why is it used?
Benzoic acid is a naturally occurring aromatic acid used as a preservative to inhibit bacteria, yeast, and mould in foods and beverages, particularly acidic ones. It occurs naturally in small amounts in cranberries, apples, cherries, and cinnamon, but the additive form is typically produced synthetically. It is approved by regulators including the FDA and EFSA within specified usage limits, and is also used in cosmetics for its antimicrobial properties.
Does E210 contain allergens?
No known allergens are recorded for Benzoic acid, though some people report sensitivity (benzoate sensitivity).
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This page summarises publicly available regulatory assessments and research. It is general information, not medical advice. Sources: EFSA, FDA, WHO and the studies linked above.