Comparing E210 - Benzoic acid vs E1521 - Polyethylene glycol

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Overview

E210 - Benzoic acid

Benzoic acid (E210) is a preservative used to help keep acidic foods and drinks safe and fresh by slowing the growth of yeasts, molds, and some bacteria. It occurs naturally in small amounts in some berries and fermented foods, and is also made for food use under strict purity standards.

E1521 - Polyethylene glycol

Polyethylene glycol (PEG) is a smooth, water‑soluble polymer used in small amounts to coat, carry, or dissolve other ingredients. In food, it appears as E1521 and helps give tablets and dragees a clean, glossy finish while keeping moisture under control. Regulators in the EU allow it for defined uses and set strict purity rules.

Synonyms

E210

Benzoic acid

E1521

Polyethylene glycol

Functions

preservative

carrier glazing agent

Origins

Plant

Synthetic

Products

Found in 386 products

Found in 163 products

Search rank & volume

#7533.2K / mo🇺🇸U.S.

#4467K / mo🇺🇸U.S.

Awareness score

×12.42

over-aware

×58.32

over-aware

Search volume over time

Interest over time for 2 keywords in U.S. during the last 10 years.

Popular questions

Is benzoic acid soluble in water?
Only sparingly—about 3 g per liter at room temperature; its solubility increases in hot water and it dissolves readily in many organic solvents.
Is benzoic acid polar?
It has a polar carboxyl group but a nonpolar aromatic ring, so overall it’s only weakly polar; its benzoate salt is much more polar and water‑soluble.
Is benzoic acid a strong acid?
No—it's a weak acid, with a pKa of about 4.2.
What is the melting point of benzoic acid?
About 122–123 °C (251–253 °F).
Is benzoic acid bad for you?
At approved food levels it’s considered safe, with an ADI of 0–5 mg/kg body weight/day; some people may experience irritation or hypersensitivity, and benzene formation in certain acidic drinks is monitored and kept very low.