Comparing E210 - Benzoic acid vs E524 - Sodium hydroxide

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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.

E524 - Sodium hydroxide

Sodium hydroxide (E524), also called lye or caustic soda, is a strong alkali used in small, controlled amounts in food processing. It helps adjust acidity (pH), loosens peels on fruits and vegetables, and creates the classic deep-brown crust on pretzels.

Synonyms

E210

Benzoic acid

E524

Sodium hydroxide

Caustic soda

Functions

preservative

acidity regulator

Origins

Plant

Synthetic

Products

Found in 386 products

Found in 393 products

Search rank & volume

#7533.2K / mo🇺🇸U.S.

#5258K / mo🇺🇸U.S.

Awareness score

×12.42

over-aware

×21.32

over-aware

Search volume over time

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

Interest over time for 3 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.