Benzoic acid
Score impact
-0.60
points/product
Description
E210, or benzoic acid, is a food additive classified as a preservative. It occurs naturally in fruits such as blueberries, plums, and cinnamon, but for industrial use it is produced synthetically by oxidation of toluene or decarboxylation of phthalic acid. It is a white crystalline solid, slightly soluble in water and highly soluble in organic solvents. Its main function is to inhibit the growth of molds, yeasts, and some bacteria, especially in acidic environments (pH < 4.5).
Historically, it has been used since the 19th century and was approved in the European Union as a safe additive. The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) and the World Health Organization (WHO) have evaluated its safety, establishing an Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI) of 5 mg per kg of body weight. This ADI has been maintained after the latest re-evaluations.
Regarding labeling, it must appear as 'benzoic acid' or 'E210' in the ingredient list. Food safety is guaranteed as long as legal limits are respected. However, there are controversies about possible cumulative effects and its combination with other additives, although current evidence does not support significant risks at authorized doses.
E210 is mainly used in foods and beverages with acidic pH. According to EC Regulation 1333/2008, it is authorized in: non-alcoholic beverages (up to 150 mg/kg), sauces and condiments (up to 1000 mg/kg), margarines (up to 1000 mg/kg), and confectionery products (up to 500 mg/kg).
In the Spanish market, it is found in cola soft drinks, fruit juices, tomato sauces, mayonnaises, and pickles. Compared to the FDA, the United States allows its use in similar concentrations, although with some differences in categories. Japan also authorizes it, but with more restrictive limits in certain products. It is effective against fungi and yeasts, but less so against bacteria.
Its use is common in combination with other preservatives such as potassium sorbate (E202) to broaden the antimicrobial spectrum.
Documented adverse effects of benzoic acid are rare and generally mild. In sensitive individuals, it can cause allergic reactions such as urticaria, asthma, or rhinitis, although the incidence is low. Studies have shown that very high doses (exceeding the ADI) can cause gastric irritation and metabolic acidosis in animals.
The biological mechanism involves its conjugation with glycine in the liver to form hippuric acid, which is excreted in urine. Sensitive populations include people with asthma or aspirin allergy, as cross-reactivity may occur. No significant interactions with medications have been documented. EFSA and WHO conclude that, at authorized doses, E210 does not pose a risk to public health. However, moderation in the consumption of products containing it is recommended, especially in children.
- Benzoic acid
- Benzenecarboxylic acid
- Phenylformic acid
- Hydrogen benzoate
- Dracylic acid
- Benzoic acid
- Benzenemethanoic acid
- Carboxybenzene
- Phenyl benzoate (acid)
Products in our Spanish database containing this additive
Examples found in ComerClaro Spanish product database
Product names and supermarket data may appear in Spanish.
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