Comparing E211 - Sodium benzoate vs E282 - calcium propionate
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Found in 16,173 products
Found in 8,051 products
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Interest over time for 2 keywords in U.S. during the last 10 years.
Interest over time for 5 keywords in U.S. during the last 10 years.
Popular questions
Is sodium benzoate bad for you?
Generally no—it's an approved preservative with an acceptable daily intake (ADI) of 0–5 mg/kg body weight, and typical intakes are well below this. Rare sensitivities (e.g., hives/asthma-like symptoms) can occur, and in vitamin C–containing drinks exposed to heat/light it can form trace benzene, which manufacturers work to minimize.
Is sodium benzoate safe?
Yes—it's authorized by regulators (e.g., FDA, EFSA, JECFA) with an ADI of 0–5 mg/kg body weight and is GRAS in foods up to 0.1%. Those with sensitivities may wish to limit it, and beverages containing both sodium benzoate and ascorbic acid should be protected from heat/light to prevent benzene formation.
Is sodium benzoate safe for skin?
Yes—it's widely used as a cosmetic preservative at low concentrations and is considered safe by regulatory and review bodies. It may occasionally cause mild irritation or sensitization, especially on very sensitive or damaged skin.
Is sodium benzoate bad for hair?
No—at the low levels used to preserve shampoos and conditioners it does not damage hair fibers. As with many preservatives, higher concentrations can irritate the scalp, but consumer products use small amounts.
Is sodium benzoate harmful?
Not at permitted food and cosmetic levels; safety limits (e.g., ADI 0–5 mg/kg body weight) are set to prevent harm. Main concerns are rare intolerance reactions and trace benzene formation in vitamin C–containing drinks under heat/light, which industry monitors and minimizes.
Is calcium propionate bad for you?
No—at permitted food levels, calcium propionate (E282) is considered safe by regulators (FDA GRAS; EU-approved) and is rapidly metabolized. A small number of people may be sensitive, but evidence of harm at typical dietary exposures is limited.
What is calcium propionate made from?
It’s the calcium salt of propionic acid, usually produced by neutralizing propionic acid with calcium hydroxide or calcium carbonate. The propionic acid can come from petrochemical synthesis or fermentation by Propionibacterium.
Is calcium propionate banned in europe?
No—E282 is authorized in the EU as a preservative in specified foods under Regulation (EC) No 1333/2008, with set maximum levels. It is not permitted in foods for infants and young children.
What is calcium propionate used for?
It’s a preservative that inhibits molds and some bacteria to extend shelf life. In baking, it helps prevent mold and “rope” spoilage in bread and similar products.
What is calcium propionate used in?
Commonly in bread, rolls, tortillas, cakes, and other baked goods; it’s also permitted in some processed cheeses depending on the jurisdiction. Specific uses and limits vary by country and product category.