Comparing E211 - Sodium benzoate vs E420II - Sorbitol syrup
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Found in 16,173 products
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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.
How much sorbitol in sugar free syrup?
It varies by product—there’s no standard amount. Sorbitol syrup itself is typically about 70% sorbitol by weight; check the label for sugar alcohols (polyols) per serving, which often total a few grams.
How much sorbitol is in sugar-free syrup?
It depends on the brand and recipe; many sugar-free syrups use sorbitol solution that is about 70% sorbitol. The nutrition label’s sugar alcohols (polyols) per serving shows the amount, often a few to several grams.
What is humectant sorbitol syrup?
It’s an aqueous solution of sorbitol (E420ii) used as a humectant to retain moisture, keep products soft, prevent crystallization, and add mild sweetness and bulk.
Which is less sweet corn syrup or sorbitol?
Regular corn syrup (glucose syrup) is generally less sweet than sorbitol: sorbitol is about 50–60% as sweet as sucrose, while typical corn syrup is roughly 30–50% depending on its DE.