Sep 14, 2025
If you've ever glanced at the ingredients list on a jar of pickles, a bottle of salad dressing, or a can of soda, you've likely come across sodium benzoate. It's one of the most common food preservatives in the world, used to prevent spoilage from bacteria and mold.
But just because it's common doesn't mean it's free from controversy. While regulators deem it safe, some research has raised questions about its potential side effects.
Here’s a simple, evidence-based look at what you need to know about sodium benzoate.
Can Form Benzene, a Carcinogen
This is the most significant concern. When sodium benzoate is combined with ascorbic acid (vitamin C), it can form benzene, a compound linked to an increased risk of cancer.
May Trigger Reactions in Sensitive Individuals
While most people process sodium benzoate without issue, a small percentage of the population may experience adverse reactions.
Studies have shown that individuals with a history of asthma, rhinitis, or chronic hives (urticaria) may experience a flare-up of their symptoms after consuming it. If you have these conditions and notice a pattern, you might consider limiting your intake.
Could Be Linked to Inflammation
Emerging research suggests that food additives, including sodium benzoate, could potentially contribute to low-grade inflammation in the body.
One recent study indicated that exposure could lead to slight inflammatory responses. However, this is a developing area of research, and more studies are needed to understand the long-term effects on humans.
So, Should You Avoid It?
While the majority of people won't have an issue with sodium benzoate, individual responses can vary. If you have sensitivities, monitoring your intake is key. Ingredient-checking apps like pom can help by quickly flagging products that contain sodium benzoate. You can either add it to your custom flags or use the app's built-in flags for concerns like carcinogen, endocrine disruption, and childhood development risk.
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