Potassium Benzoate

Definition

A preservative added to food to extend shelf life by preventing the growth of bacteria, yeast, and mold. It is is a white, odorless powder obtained by combining benzoic acid and potassium salt under heat. Commonly found in sodas, sweets, condiments, and processed meats or fish.

Health Impact

When combined with vitamin C, light, or heat, it can form benzene, a strong carcinogen. Foods that contain benzene may also cause cause hives or other severe allergic reactions, especially in people prone to eczema, itchy skin, or a chronically stuffy or runny nose.

Sources

• Questions and Answers on the Occurrence of Benzene in Soft Drinks and Other Beverages

  U.S Food and Drug Administration

• Benzoic acid and its derivatives as naturally occurring compounds in foods and as additives: Uses, exposure, and controversy

  Pub Med

• Benzene as a Chemical Hazard in Processed Foods

  PMC US National Library of Medicine National Institutes of Health

• Sensitivity to food additives, vaso-active amines and salicylates: a review of the evidence

  Clinical and Translational Allergy

• European Food Safety Authority

  Scientific Opinion on the re-evaluation of benzoic acid (E 210), sodium benzoate (E 211), potassium benzoate (E 212) and calcium benzoate (E 213) as food additives