Comparing E234 - Nisin vs E211 - Sodium benzoate
Overview
Synonyms
Products
Found in 309 products
Found in 16,173 products
Search rank & volume
Awareness score
Search volume over time
Interest over time for 2 keywords in U.S. during the last 10 years.
Interest over time for 2 keywords in U.S. during the last 10 years.
Popular questions
What is nisin preparation?
A standardized commercial product of the antimicrobial peptide nisin blended with carriers (typically sodium chloride and sometimes dairy solids) to a defined potency for use as a food preservative.
Is nisin bad for you?
No—at approved food-use levels it’s considered safe by major regulators (e.g., EFSA, JECFA, FDA) and is digested like other peptides; typical dietary exposure is well below the acceptable daily intake. If you have a milk allergy, note some preparations include dairy-derived carriers.
What is nisin in food?
Nisin (E234) is a natural antimicrobial preservative from Lactococcus lactis used to inhibit Gram-positive bacteria like Listeria and extend shelf life in foods such as cheeses and some dairy or ready-to-eat products.
What is nisin made from?
It’s produced by fermenting Lactococcus lactis on substrates like milk or sugar, then purified and standardized with carriers such as salt; it’s not chemically synthesized for food use.
Cheddar nisin which brands?
Brand use varies by market: it’s more common in processed or sliced/shredded cheddar than in traditional block cheddar. Check labels for “nisin” or “E234,” or contact the manufacturer for specific product lines.
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.