Sodium Benzoate
A common preservative that stops mould and bacteria in acidic drinks and sauces.
The sodium salt of benzoic acid, used to preserve fizzy drinks, fruit juices, pickles and dressings.
Safe at approved levels, but when combined with vitamin C (ascorbic acid) it can form trace benzene, a carcinogen. Some studies link benzoate + artificial colours to hyperactivity in children.
Generally low-risk, but watch for it alongside vitamin C and artificial dyes in kids' drinks.
4 analyzed products
Preservative that may form carcinogenic benzene under certain conditions, linked to hyperactivity in children.
Common preservative that can form benzene when combined with vitamin C under certain conditions.
Can form benzene when combined with vitamin C under certain conditions, though levels are typically very low.
It prevents mold and yeast growth. It can form trace benzene when combined with ascorbic acid and exposed to heat or light. A 2007 Southampton study linked it with certain colors to hyperactivity in some children.