Ingredient Guide

🇪🇺 Sodium Benzoate on Food Labels in EU

Sodium Benzoate is permitted with proper declaration in European Union: declare as "sodium benzoate (E211)" in the ingredient list.

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What the Rule Is

Antimicrobial preservative used in acidic foods and beverages, with known interaction with vitamin C. In European Union, Sodium Benzoate is regulated under FIC Regulation 1169/2011 as a food preservative. Permitted under Regulation (EC) No 1333/2008. Must declare with functional class "preservative". EFSA has noted that combination with ascorbic acid (vitamin C) can form benzene — a potential carcinogen. This interaction does not require a mandatory warning but manufacturers should be aware.

What You Must Include

Declare as "sodium benzoate (E211)" in the ingredient list
Declare with functional class: "preservative" and E-number E211
Review all compound ingredients for hidden sources
Cross-check all compound ingredients and sub-ingredients for hidden sources

Common Violations

Incorrect or missing declaration name — must use "sodium benzoate (E211)"
Using an ambiguous or abbreviated name that does not identify Sodium Benzoate
Omitting the E-number E211 where required
Not updating the label after recipe changes involving this ingredient
Failing to check compound ingredients for hidden Sodium Benzoate content

Examples: Compliant vs Non-Compliant

Compliant Examples

"preservative: sodium benzoate (E211)"

"sodium benzoate (E211)" in ingredient list

Full ingredient line: "Ingredients: ... sodium benzoate (E211) ..."

Non-Compliant Examples

Using a synonym (Sodium benzoate, Benzoic acid sodium salt) without the approved declaration name

Ingredient list with "Sodium Benzoate" without functional class or E-number

"Natural [ingredient category]" without specific name where specific name is required

How LabelGuard Checks This

LabelGuard scans your label for Sodium Benzoate and all its common names (E211, Sodium benzoate, Benzoic acid sodium salt) to verify correct declaration, required E-numbers, and proper functional class labeling under EU rules.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How must Sodium Benzoate be declared on food labels in EU?

Declare as "sodium benzoate (E211)" in the ingredient list. Permitted under Regulation (EC) No 1333/2008. Must declare with functional class "preservative". EFSA has noted that combination with ascorbic acid (vitamin C) can form benzene — a potential carcinogen. This interaction does not require a mandatory warning but manufacturers should be aware.

What are the common synonyms and hidden sources of Sodium Benzoate?

Sodium Benzoate may appear under the following names: E211, Sodium benzoate, Benzoic acid sodium salt. Common hidden sources include: Carbonated soft drinks, Fruit juices, Pickles, Condiments, Salad dressings, Soy sauce.

Is Sodium Benzoate banned or restricted in any market?

Sodium Benzoate is permitted in all major markets with proper declaration.

Regulation Sources

Last updated: 2026-04-01

Disclaimer: This information is for guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. Always consult official regulations and seek professional legal advice for specific compliance questions.

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