E211 · Sodium benzoate
- WHO
- Safe in moderation
- FDA
- Safe in moderation
- EFSA
- Safe in moderation
- FSANZ
- Safe in moderation
- Japan
- Safe in moderation
- UK FSA
- Safe in moderation
- Health Canada
- Safe in moderation
What is E211?
Sodium benzoate is the sodium salt of benzoic acid, used as an antimicrobial preservative most effective in acidic foods and drinks such as soft drinks, fruit juices, pickles, and sauces. It is authorised in many countries with maximum permitted levels, and regulatory bodies apply a group acceptable daily intake for benzoic acid and its salts.
Also appears on labels as: E211, E 211, E-211, Sodium benzoate, Benzoic acid sodium salt, Sodium salt of benzoic acid, INS 211, NaC6H5COO, Food preservative 211, Preservative sodium benzoate, Benzoate of soda, Benzoate sodium.
What the evidence says
- Can form small amounts of benzene in beverages that also contain ascorbic acid (vitamin C), especially under heat, light, or with metal-ion contamination; industry reformulation and testing have reduced this risk.
- Some studies combining sodium benzoate with certain artificial colours reported small effects on activity/attention in children; evidence is limited and has not led regulators to change acceptable daily intakes.
- Occasional intolerance or pseudoallergic reactions (e.g., hives) reported in sensitive individuals.
Frequently asked questions
Is E211 safe?
Our overall verdict for E211 (Sodium benzoate) is “Safe in moderation”, based on the most cautious of the major regulators’ positions — FDA: safe in moderation; WHO: safe in moderation; EFSA: safe in moderation; FSANZ: safe in moderation; Japan: safe in moderation; UK FSA: safe in moderation; Health Canada: safe in moderation.
Is E211 vegan, halal or gluten-free?
According to our ingredient data for Sodium benzoate — 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 E211 and why is it used?
Sodium benzoate is the sodium salt of benzoic acid, used as an antimicrobial preservative most effective in acidic foods and drinks such as soft drinks, fruit juices, pickles, and sauces. It is authorised in many countries with maximum permitted levels, and regulatory bodies apply a group acceptable daily intake for benzoic acid and its salts.
Does E211 contain allergens?
No known allergens are recorded for Sodium benzoate, 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.