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Ingredient Guide

🇺🇸 Sodium Benzoate on Food Labels in US

Sodium Benzoate is permitted with proper declaration in United States: declare as "sodium benzoate" 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 United States, Sodium Benzoate is regulated under FDCA & FSMA as a food preservative. FDA GRAS (21 CFR 184.1733). Must declare as "sodium benzoate" in ingredient list. The FDA has issued guidance on benzene levels in beverages (max 5 ppb) — combination with ascorbic acid must be carefully managed.

What You Must Include
  • Declare as "sodium benzoate" 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"
  • 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"
"sodium benzoate" in ingredient list
Full ingredient line: "Ingredients: ... sodium benzoate ..."

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 US rules.

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Frequently Asked Questions

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

Declare as "sodium benzoate" in the ingredient list. FDA GRAS (21 CFR 184.1733). Must declare as "sodium benzoate" in ingredient list. The FDA has issued guidance on benzene levels in beverages (max 5 ppb) — combination with ascorbic acid must be carefully managed.

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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