Ingredients --

Sodium benzoate

Chemical Formula:

Synonyms

Benzoate of soda

Description

White powder or crystals.

Sodium benzoate converts to benzoic acid when use in acidic mixtures. Benzoic acid has good anti-microbial features, but does not dissolve well in water, whereas sodium benzoate dissolves very well in water.

Uses

Sodium benzoate is used in acidic foods and products to control bacteria, mold, yeasts, and other microbes. It interferes with their ability to make energy.

Because it only converts to benzoic acid in acidic environments, it is not used for its anti-microbial action unless the pH is below about 3.6. In the food industry, it is used in items such as jams, salad dressing, juices, pickles, and carbonated drinks.

It is also used as a corrosion inhibitor in automotive anti-freeze products.