SODIUM BENZOATE
Prepared at the 46th JECFA (1996), published in FNP 52 Add 4 (1996) superseding specifications prepared at the 17th JECFA (1974), published
in FNP 4 (1978) and in FNP 52 (1992). Metals and arsenic specifications revised at the 63rd JECFA (2004). A group ADI of 0-5 mg/kg bw for benzoic acid and salts was established at the 27th JECFA (1983), and maintained at the 57th JECFA (2001)
SYNONYMS INS No. 211
DEFINITION
Chemical names Sodium benzoate, sodium salt of benzenecarboxylic acid, sodium salt of phenylcarboxylic acid
C.A.S. number 532-32-1
Chemical formula C7H5NaO2
Formula weight 144.11
Assay Not less than 99.0% on the dried basis
DESCRIPTION White, almost odourless, crystalline powder, flakes or granules
FUNCTIONAL USES Antimicrobial preservative
