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Sodium Benzoate

PubChem CID
517055
Structure
Sodium Benzoate_small.png
Sodium Benzoate_3D_Structure.png
Molecular Formula
Synonyms
  • sodium benzoate
  • 532-32-1
  • Sobenate
  • Antimol
  • Benzoic acid, sodium salt
Molecular Weight
144.10 g/mol
Computed by PubChem 2.2 (PubChem release 2021.10.14)
Parent Compound
Dates
  • Create:
    2005-03-27
  • Modify:
    2025-01-18
Description
Sodium benzoate is an organic sodium salt resulting from the replacement of the proton from the carboxy group of benzoic acid by a sodium ion. It has a role as an antimicrobial food preservative, a drug allergen, an EC 1.13.11.33 (arachidonate 15-lipoxygenase) inhibitor, an EC 3.1.1.3 (triacylglycerol lipase) inhibitor, an algal metabolite, a human xenobiotic metabolite and a plant metabolite. It contains a benzoate.
SODIUM BENZOATE is a small molecule drug with a maximum clinical trial phase of IV (across all indications) that was first approved in 1987 and has 2 investigational indications.
The sodium salt of BENZOIC ACID. It is used as an antifungal preservative in pharmaceutical preparations and foods. It may also be used as a test for liver function.
See also: Benzoic Acid (has active moiety); Sodium benzoate; sodium phenylacetate (component of) ... View More ...

1 Structures

1.1 2D Structure

Chemical Structure Depiction
Sodium Benzoate.png

1.2 3D Conformer

3D Conformer of Parent

2 Names and Identifiers

2.1 Computed Descriptors

2.1.1 IUPAC Name

sodium;benzoate
Computed by Lexichem TK 2.7.0 (PubChem release 2021.10.14)

2.1.2 InChI

InChI=1S/C7H6O2.Na/c8-7(9)6-4-2-1-3-5-6;/h1-5H,(H,8,9);/q;+1/p-1
Computed by InChI 1.0.6 (PubChem release 2021.10.14)

2.1.3 InChIKey

WXMKPNITSTVMEF-UHFFFAOYSA-M
Computed by InChI 1.0.6 (PubChem release 2021.10.14)

2.1.4 SMILES

C1=CC=C(C=C1)C(=O)[O-].[Na+]
Computed by OEChem 2.3.0 (PubChem release 2024.12.12)

2.2 Molecular Formula

C7H5O2Na

C7H5NaO2

C6H5COONa

C7H5NaO2
Computed by PubChem 2.2 (PubChem release 2021.10.14)

2.3 Other Identifiers

2.3.1 CAS

532-32-1

2.3.2 Deprecated CAS

1011270-78-2, 1219807-20-1, 1351865-09-2

2.3.3 European Community (EC) Number

208-534-8

2.3.4 UNII

2.3.5 ChEBI ID

2.3.6 ChEMBL ID

2.3.7 DSSTox Substance ID

2.3.8 FEMA Number

2.3.9 HMDB ID

2.3.10 ICSC Number

2.3.11 KEGG ID

2.3.12 Metabolomics Workbench ID

2.3.13 NCI Thesaurus Code

2.3.14 Nikkaji Number

2.3.15 PharmGKB ID

2.3.16 RXCUI

2.3.17 Wikidata

2.3.18 Wikipedia

2.4 Synonyms

2.4.1 MeSH Entry Terms

  • Benzoate, Sodium
  • Sodium Benzoate

2.4.2 Depositor-Supplied Synonyms

3 Chemical and Physical Properties

3.1 Computed Properties

Property Name
Molecular Weight
Property Value
144.10 g/mol
Reference
Computed by PubChem 2.2 (PubChem release 2021.10.14)
Property Name
Hydrogen Bond Donor Count
Property Value
0
Reference
Computed by Cactvs 3.4.8.18 (PubChem release 2021.10.14)
Property Name
Hydrogen Bond Acceptor Count
Property Value
2
Reference
Computed by Cactvs 3.4.8.18 (PubChem release 2021.10.14)
Property Name
Rotatable Bond Count
Property Value
1
Reference
Computed by Cactvs 3.4.8.18 (PubChem release 2021.10.14)
Property Name
Exact Mass
Property Value
144.01872368 Da
Reference
Computed by PubChem 2.2 (PubChem release 2021.10.14)
Property Name
Monoisotopic Mass
Property Value
144.01872368 Da
Reference
Computed by PubChem 2.2 (PubChem release 2021.10.14)
Property Name
Topological Polar Surface Area
Property Value
40.1 Ų
Reference
Computed by Cactvs 3.4.8.18 (PubChem release 2021.10.14)
Property Name
Heavy Atom Count
Property Value
10
Reference
Computed by PubChem
Property Name
Formal Charge
Property Value
0
Reference
Computed by PubChem
Property Name
Complexity
Property Value
108
Reference
Computed by Cactvs 3.4.8.18 (PubChem release 2021.10.14)
Property Name
Isotope Atom Count
Property Value
0
Reference
Computed by PubChem
Property Name
Defined Atom Stereocenter Count
Property Value
0
Reference
Computed by PubChem
Property Name
Undefined Atom Stereocenter Count
Property Value
0
Reference
Computed by PubChem
Property Name
Defined Bond Stereocenter Count
Property Value
0
Reference
Computed by PubChem
Property Name
Undefined Bond Stereocenter Count
Property Value
0
Reference
Computed by PubChem
Property Name
Covalently-Bonded Unit Count
Property Value
2
Reference
Computed by PubChem
Property Name
Compound Is Canonicalized
Property Value
Yes
Reference
Computed by PubChem (release 2021.10.14)

3.2 Experimental Properties

3.2.1 Physical Description

Dry Powder; Liquid; Pellets or Large Crystals; Dry Powder, Pellets or Large Crystals
A white, almost odourless, crystalline powder or granules
White odorless solid; [Merck Index] Hygroscopic; [ICSC] White powder; [MSDSonline]
WHITE HYGROSCOPIC CRYSTALLINE POWDER OR GRANULES

3.2.2 Color / Form

White, granules or crystalline powder
O'Neil, M.J. (ed.). The Merck Index - An Encyclopedia of Chemicals, Drugs, and Biologicals. Cambridge, UK: Royal Society of Chemistry, 2013., p. 1594
Colorless crystalline powder
Weast, R.C. (ed.). Handbook of Chemistry and Physics. 57th ed. Cleveland: CRC Press Inc., 1976., p. B-158

3.2.3 Odor

Odorless
O'Neil, M.J. (ed.). The Merck Index - An Encyclopedia of Chemicals, Drugs, and Biologicals. Cambridge, UK: Royal Society of Chemistry, 2013., p. 1594

3.2.4 Taste

Sweetish, astringent taste
O'Neil, M.J. (ed.). The Merck Index - An Encyclopedia of Chemicals, Drugs, and Biologicals. Cambridge, UK: Royal Society of Chemistry, 2013., p. 1594
Unpleasant, sweetish, saline taste
Reynolds, J.E.F., Prasad, A.B. (eds.) Martindale-The Extra Pharmacopoeia. 28th ed. London: The Pharmaceutical Press, 1982., p. 1290

3.2.5 Boiling Point

>450 °C to <475 °C, decomposes with no boiling (OECD Guideline 103 (Boiling point/boiling range))
ECHA; Search for Chemicals. Sodium Benzoate (CAS 532-32-1) Registered Substances Dossier. European Chemical Agency. Available from, as of June 6, 2015: https://echa.europa.eu/

3.2.6 Melting Point

for benzoic acidMelting range of benzoic acid isolated by acidification and not recrystallised 121,5 °C to 123,5 °C, after drying in a sulphuric acid desiccator
436 °C (OECD Guideline 102 (Melting point / Melting Range))
ECHA; Search for Chemicals. Sodium Benzoate (CAS 532-32-1) Registered Substances Dossier. European Chemical Agency. Available from, as of June 6, 2015: https://echa.europa.eu/
>300 °C

3.2.7 Flash Point

>100 °C (>212 °F)
Sigma-Aldrich; Safety Data Sheet for Sodium benzoate. Product Number: 71295, Version 4.6 (Revision Date 09/19/2014). Available from, as of April 26, 2016: https://www.sigmaaldrich.com/safety-center.html
>100 °C

3.2.8 Solubility

Freely soluble in water, sparingly soluble in ethanol
In water, 556 g/L (temperature and pH not reported)
ECHA; Search for Chemicals. Sodium Benzoate (CAS 532-32-1) Registered Substances Dossier. European Chemical Agency. Available from, as of June 6, 2015: https://echa.europa.eu/
1 g dissolves in 1.8 mL water, 1.4 mL boiling water, about 75 mL alcohol, 50 mL mixture of 47.5 mL alcohol and 3.7 mL water
O'Neil, M.J. (ed.). The Merck Index - An Encyclopedia of Chemicals, Drugs, and Biologicals. Cambridge, UK: Royal Society of Chemistry, 2013., p. 1594
Solubility in water, g/100ml at 20 °C: 63

3.2.9 Density

1.50 g/cu cm (OECD Guideline 109 (Density of Liquids and Solids))
ECHA; Search for Chemicals. Sodium Benzoate (CAS 532-32-1) Registered Substances Dossier. European Chemical Agency. Available from, as of June 6, 2015: https://echa.europa.eu/
Relative density (water = 1): 1.44

3.2.10 LogP

-2.27 (calculated)

3.2.11 Stability / Shelf Life

Stable under recommended storage conditions.
Sigma-Aldrich; Safety Data Sheet for Sodium benzoate. Product Number: 71295, Version 4.6 (Revision Date 09/19/2014). Available from, as of April 26, 2016: https://www.sigmaaldrich.com/safety-center.html

3.2.12 Autoignition Temperature

>500 °C

3.2.13 Decomposition

When heated to decomposition it emits toxic fumes of /sodium oxide/.
Lewis, R.J. Sr. (ed) Sax's Dangerous Properties of Industrial Materials. 11th Edition. Wiley-Interscience, Wiley & Sons, Inc. Hoboken, NJ. 2004., p. 3232
It may emit acrid fumes when heated to decomposition (at 120 °C/248 °F).
Pohanish, R.P. (ed). Sittig's Handbook of Toxic and Hazardous Chemical Carcinogens 6th Edition Volume 1: A-K,Volume 2: L-Z. William Andrew, Waltham, MA 2012, p. 2388

3.2.14 pH

Aqueous solution is slightly alkaline to litmus, pH about 8
O'Neil, M.J. (ed.). The Merck Index - An Encyclopedia of Chemicals, Drugs, and Biologicals. Cambridge, UK: Royal Society of Chemistry, 2013., p. 1594

3.2.15 Surface Tension

72.9 mN/m at 20 °C in water at 1 g/L OECD Guideline 115 (Surface Tension of Aqueous Solutions)
ECHA; Search for Chemicals. Sodium Benzoate (CAS 532-32-1) Registered Substances Dossier. European Chemical Agency. Available from, as of June 6, 2015: https://echa.europa.eu/

3.2.16 Other Experimental Properties

Decomp by dil mineral acid liberating benzoic acid
Osol, A. and J.E. Hoover, et al. (eds.). Remington's Pharmaceutical Sciences. 15th ed. Easton, Pennsylvania: Mack Publishing Co., 1975., p. 1100
Incompatibility: Acids, F
O'Neil, M.J. (ed.). The Merck Index - An Encyclopedia of Chemicals, Drugs, and Biologicals. Cambridge, UK: Royal Society of Chemistry, 2013., p. 1594

3.3 Chemical Classes

Metals -> Organic Acids, Metal Salts

3.3.1 Drugs

3.3.1.1 Human Drugs
Human drug -> Active ingredient (SODIUM BENZOATE)
3.3.1.2 Animal Drugs
Pharmaceuticals -> UK Veterinary Medicines Directorate List
S104 | UKVETMED | UK Veterinary Medicines Directorate's List | DOI:10.5281/zenodo.7802119

3.3.2 Cosmetics

Cosmetic ingredients (Sodium Benzoate) -> CIR (Cosmetic Ingredient Review)
Preservative
S13 | EUCOSMETICS | Combined Inventory of Ingredients Employed in Cosmetic Products (2000) and Revised Inventory (2006) | DOI:10.5281/zenodo.2624118

3.3.3 Food Additives

ANTIMICROBIAL AGENT, ANTIOXIDANT, COLOR OR COLORING ADJUNCT, FLAVOR ENHANCER, FLAVORING AGENT OR ADJUVANT, FUMIGANT, PH CONTROL AGENT, SURFACE-ACTIVE AGENT -> FDA Substance added to food

3.3.4 Fragrances

Fragrance Ingredient (Sodium benzoate) -> IFRA transparency List

3.3.5 Polymers

Plastics -> Nucleating agents
S47 | ECHAPLASTICS | A list from the Plastic Additives Initiative Mapping Exercise by ECHA | DOI:10.5281/zenodo.2658139
Plastics -> Polyolefin-II
S47 | ECHAPLASTICS | A list from the Plastic Additives Initiative Mapping Exercise by ECHA | DOI:10.5281/zenodo.2658139

4 Spectral Information

4.1 1D NMR Spectra

4.1.1 1H NMR Spectra

1 of 2
Instrument Name
Varian A-60
Source of Sample
Philadelphia College of Pharmacy & Science, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Copyright
Copyright © 2009-2024 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
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2 of 2
Instrument Name
Varian A-60
Copyright
Copyright © 2009-2024 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
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4.1.2 13C NMR Spectra

1 of 2
Source of Sample
Aldrich Chemical Company, Inc., Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Copyright
Copyright © 1980, 1981-2024 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
Thumbnail
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2 of 2
Copyright
Copyright © 2016-2024 W. Robien, Inst. of Org. Chem., Univ. of Vienna. All Rights Reserved.
Thumbnail
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4.1.3 17O NMR Spectra

1 of 2
Copyright
Copyright © 2016-2024 W. Robien, Inst. of Org. Chem., Univ. of Vienna. All Rights Reserved.
Thumbnail
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2 of 2
Copyright
Copyright © 2016-2024 W. Robien, Inst. of Org. Chem., Univ. of Vienna. All Rights Reserved.
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4.2 IR Spectra

4.2.1 FTIR Spectra

1 of 2
Technique
KBr WAFER
Source of Sample
Tenneco Chemicals, Inc.
Copyright
Copyright © 1980, 1981-2024 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
Thumbnail
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2 of 2
Technique
CAPILLARY CELL: NEAT
Source of Sample
Tenneco Chemicals, Inc., New York, New York
Copyright
Copyright © 1980, 1981-2024 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
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4.2.2 ATR-IR Spectra

1 of 2
Instrument Name
Bio-Rad FTS
Technique
ATR-Neat (DuraSamplIR II)
Source of Spectrum
Forensic Spectral Research
Source of Sample
Supelco, Sigma-Aldrich Inc.
Catalog Number
47850
Lot Number
LB60611
Copyright
Copyright © 2009-2024 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
Thumbnail
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2 of 2
Source of Sample
Sigma-Aldrich
Catalog Number
109169
Copyright
Copyright © 2018-2024 Sigma-Aldrich Co. LLC. - Database Compilation Copyright © 2018-2024 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
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4.3 Raman Spectra

1 of 2
Technique
FT-Raman
Source of Spectrum
Forensic Spectral Research
Source of Sample
Supelco, Sigma-Aldrich
Catalog Number
47850
Lot Number
LB60611
Copyright
Copyright © 2012-2024 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
Thumbnail
Thumbnail
2 of 2
Instrument Name
Bruker MultiRAM Stand Alone FT-Raman Spectrometer
Source of Spectrum
Zenodo
Copyright
Copyright © 2023-2024 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
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6 Chemical Vendors

7 Drug and Medication Information

7.1 Drug Indication

7.2 FDA Approved Drugs

7.3 FDA Orange Book

7.4 FDA National Drug Code Directory

7.5 Drug Labels

Drug and label
Active ingredient and drug

7.6 Clinical Trials

7.6.1 ClinicalTrials.gov

7.6.2 EU Clinical Trials Register

7.6.3 NIPH Clinical Trials Search of Japan

7.7 Therapeutic Uses

Antifungal Agents; Food Preservatives
National Library of Medicine's Medical Subject Headings. Sodium Benzoate. Online file (MeSH, 2016). Available from, as of April 27, 2016: https://www.nlm.nih.gov/mesh/2016/mesh_browser/MBrowser.html
Sodium phenylacetate and sodium benzoate is used as adjunctive therapy for the treatment of acute hyperammonemia and associated encephalopathy in patients with disorders (i.e., deficiencies in enzymes) of the urea cycle. Sodium phenylacetate and sodium benzoate is designated an orphan drug by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for this use.
American Society of Health-System Pharmacists 2016; Drug Information 2016. Bethesda, MD. 2016
/EXPL THER/ In addition to dopaminergic hyperactivity, hypofunction of the N-methyl-d-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) has an important role in the pathophysiology of schizophrenia. Enhancing NMDAR-mediated neurotransmission is considered a novel treatment approach. To date, several trials on adjuvant NMDA-enhancing agents have revealed beneficial, but limited, efficacy for positive and negative symptoms and cognition. Another method to enhance NMDA function is to raise the levels of d-amino acids by blocking their metabolism. Sodium benzoate is a d-amino acid oxidase inhibitor. /The objective of this study was/ to examine the clinical and cognitive efficacy and safety of add-on treatment of sodium benzoate for schizophrenia. /The study consisted of/ a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial in 2 major medical centers in Taiwan composed of 52 patients with chronic schizophrenia who had been stabilized with antipsychotic medications for 3 months or longer. /Interventions included/ six weeks of add-on treatment of 1 g/d of sodium benzoate or placebo. The primary outcome measure was the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS) total score. Clinical efficacy and adverse effects were assessed biweekly. Cognitive functions were measured before and after the add-on treatment. Benzoate produced a 21% improvement in PANSS total score and large effect sizes (range, 1.16-1.69) in the PANSS total and subscales, Scales for the Assessment of Negative Symptoms-20 items, Global Assessment of Function, Quality of Life Scale and Clinical Global Impression and improvement in the neurocognition subtests as recommended by the National Institute of Mental Health's Measurement and Treatment Research to Improve Cognition in Schizophrenia initiative, including the domains of processing speed and visual learning. Benzoate was well tolerated without significant adverse effects. Benzoate adjunctive therapy significantly improved a variety of symptom domains and neurocognition in patients with chronic schizophrenia. The preliminary results show promise for d-amino acid oxidase inhibition as a novel approach for new drug development for schizophrenia.
Lane HY et al; JAMA Psychiatry 70 (12): 1267-75 (2013)
/EXPL THER/ N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR)-mediated neurotransmission is vital for learning and memory. Hypofunction of NMDAR has been reported to play a role in the pathophysiology of Alzheimer disease (AD), particularly in the early phase. Enhancing NMDAR activation might be a novel treatment approach. One of the methods to enhance NMDAR activity is to raise the levels of NMDA coagonists by blocking their metabolism. This study examined the efficacy and safety of sodium benzoate, a D-amino acid oxidase inhibitor, for the treatment of amnestic mild cognitive impairment and mild AD. We conducted a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial in four major medical centers in Taiwan. Sixty patients with amnestic mild cognitive impairment or mild AD were treated with 250-750 mg/day of sodium benzoate or placebo for 24 weeks. Alzheimer's Disease Assessment Scale-cognitive subscale (the primary outcome) and global function (assessed by Clinician Interview Based Impression of Change plus Caregiver Input) were measured every 8 weeks. Additional cognition composite was measured at baseline and endpoint. Sodium benzoate produced a better improvement than placebo in Alzheimer's Disease Assessment Scale-cognitive subscale (p = .0021, .0116, and .0031 at week 16, week 24, and endpoint, respectively), additional cognition composite (p = .007 at endpoint) and Clinician Interview Based Impression of Change plus Caregiver Input (p = .015, .016, and .012 at week 16, week 24, and endpoint, respectively). Sodium benzoate was well-tolerated without evident side-effects. Sodium benzoate substantially improved cognitive and overall functions in patients with early-phase AD. The preliminary results show promise for D-amino acid oxidase inhibition as a novel approach for early dementing processes.
Lin CH et al; Biol Psychiatry 75 (9): 678-85 (2014) 24074637
/EXPL THER/ A recent clinical study demonstrated that sodium benzoate (SB), a prototype competitive d-amino acid oxidase inhibitor, was effective in the treatment of several symptoms, such as positive and negative symptoms, and cognitive impairment in medicated patients with schizophrenia. The objective of the study was to examine the effects of SB on behavioral abnormalities such as pre-pulse inhibition (PPI) deficits and hyperlocomotion in mice after a single administration of the N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor antagonist, phencyclidine (PCP). The effects of SB on behavioral abnormalities (PPI deficits and hyperlocomotion) in mice after PCP administration were examined. Furthermore, effects of SB on tissue levels of amino acids were also examined. A single oral dose of SB (100, 300, or 1000 mg/kg) attenuated PPI deficits in mice after administration of PCP (3.0 mg/kg, s.c.) in a dose-dependent manner. In contrast, L-701,324 (10 mg/kg), an antagonist at the glycine site of the NMDA receptor, did not affect the effect of SB (1000 mg/kg) on PCP-induced PPI deficits. Furthermore, a single oral dose of SB (1000 mg/kg) significantly attenuated the hyperlocomotion in mice after administration of PCP (3.0 mg/kg, s.c.). However, a single oral dose of SB (1000 mg/kg) caused no changes to D-serine levels in plasma or in the frontal cortex, hippocampus, and striatum of these animals. This study suggests that SB induced antipsychotic effects in the PCP model of schizophrenia, although it did not increase D-serine levels in the brain.
Matsuura A et al; Acta Neuropsychiatr 27 (3): 159-67 (2015)

7.8 Drug Warnings

At /the therapeutic/ dose level, clinical signs of toxicity are rare and in most cases limited to anorexia and vomiting, especially after intravenous bolus infusions.
International Programme on Chemical Safety's Concise International Chemical Assessment Documents. Number 26: Benzoic Acid and Sodium Benzoate (2000). Available from, as of April 27, 2016: https://www.inchem.org/pages/cicads.html

8 Food Additives and Ingredients

8.1 Food Additive Classes

JECFA Functional Classes
Food Additives -> PRESERVATIVE;

8.2 FDA Substances Added to Food

Used for (Technical Effect)
ANTIMICROBIAL AGENT, ANTIOXIDANT, COLOR OR COLORING ADJUNCT, FLAVOR ENHANCER, FLAVORING AGENT OR ADJUVANT, FUMIGANT, PH CONTROL AGENT, SURFACE-ACTIVE AGENT
Document Number (21 eCFR)
FEMA Number
3025
GRAS Number
3

8.3 Evaluations of the Joint FAO / WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives - JECFA

Chemical Name
SODIUM BENZOATE
Evaluation Year
1996
ADI
0-5 mg/kg bw
Comments
The 1996 group ADI of 0-5 mg/kg bw for benzoic acid, the benzoate salts (calcium, potassium and sodium), benzaldehyde, benzyl acetate, benzyl alcohol and benzyl benzoate, expressed as benzoic acid equivalents, was maintained at the fifty-seventh meeting (2001).
Tox Monograph

9 Pharmacology and Biochemistry

9.1 MeSH Pharmacological Classification

Antifungal Agents
Substances that destroy fungi by suppressing their ability to grow or reproduce. They differ from FUNGICIDES, INDUSTRIAL because they defend against fungi present in human or animal tissues. (See all compounds classified as Antifungal Agents.)
Food Preservatives
Substances capable of inhibiting, retarding or arresting the process of fermentation, acidification or other deterioration of foods. (See all compounds classified as Food Preservatives.)

9.2 ATC Code

A - Alimentary tract and metabolism

A16 - Other alimentary tract and metabolism products

A16A - Other alimentary tract and metabolism products

A16AX - Various alimentary tract and metabolism products

A16AX11 - Sodium benzoate

9.3 Absorption, Distribution and Excretion

Overall there are signs of systemic absorption via oral and dermal exposures, no evidence of target organs or of excretion. After oral ingestion and dermal absorption, the test substance will be metabolised to hippuric acid. Despite the low log Pow value, results of the 28-day study in rats and the predicted metabolism do not indicate a potential for the substance to bioaccumulate.
European Chemicals Agency (ECHA); Registered Substances, Sodium benzoate (CAS Number: 532-32-1) (EC Number: 208-534-8) (Last updated: March 18, 2016). Available from, as of April 27, 2016: https://echa.europa.eu/
After oral ingestion of benzoic acid and sodium benzoate, there is a rapid absorption (of undissociated benzoic acid) from the gastrointestinal tract in experimental animals or humans. ... 100% absorption can be assumed. In humans, the peak plasma concentration is reached within 1-2 hr.
International Programme on Chemical Safety's Concise International Chemical Assessment Documents. Number 26: Benzoic Acid and Sodium Benzoate (2000). Available from, as of April 27, 2016: https://www.inchem.org/pages/cicads.html
Hippuric acid is rapidly excreted in urine. In humans, after oral doses of up to 160 mg/kg body weight, 75-100% of the applied dose is excreted as hippuric acid within 6 hr after administration, and the rest within 2-3 days.
International Programme on Chemical Safety's Concise International Chemical Assessment Documents. Number 26: Benzoic Acid and Sodium Benzoate (2000). Available from, as of April 27, 2016: https://www.inchem.org/pages/cicads.html
Experiments on the distribution and elimination of (14)C-benzoate in the rat have shown no accumulation of sodium benzoate or benzoic acid in the body.
International Programme on Chemical Safety's Concise International Chemical Assessment Documents. Number 26: Benzoic Acid and Sodium Benzoate (2000). Available from, as of April 27, 2016: https://www.inchem.org/pages/cicads.html
For more Absorption, Distribution and Excretion (Complete) data for SODIUM BENZOATE (6 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

9.4 Metabolism / Metabolites

After oral and dermal uptake, benzoate is metabolized in the liver by conjugation with glycine, resulting in the formation of hippuric acid. The rate of biotransformation in humans is high: after oral doses of 40, 80 or 160 mg sodium benzoate/kg body weight, the transformation to hippuric acid was independent of the dose - about 17-29 mg/kg body weight per hour, corresponding to about 500 mg/kg body weight per day. Other /studies/ obtained higher values of 0.8-2 g/kg body weight per day.
International Programme on Chemical Safety's Concise International Chemical Assessment Documents. Number 26: Benzoic Acid and Sodium Benzoate (2000). Available from, as of April 27, 2016: https://www.inchem.org/pages/cicads.html
Another metabolite of benzoate is the benzoyl glucuronide.
International Programme on Chemical Safety's Concise International Chemical Assessment Documents. Number 26: Benzoic Acid and Sodium Benzoate (2000). Available from, as of April 27, 2016: https://www.inchem.org/pages/cicads.html
The metabolism of the benzoates depletes glycine concentrations and can therefore alter the glycine-dependent metabolism of other compounds. /A study/ demonstrated that ... sodium benzoate successfully competed with aspirin for glycine, resulting in increased concentration and persistence of salicyclic acid in the body.
Cosmetic Ingredient Review; International Journal of Toxicology 20 (Suppl. 3): 23-50 (2001). Available from, as of April 27, 2016: https://www.beauty-review.nl/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/Final-report-on-the-safety-assessment-of-Benzyl-Alcohol-Benzoic-Acid-and-Sodium-Benzoate.pdf
This study underlines the importance of cinnamon, a widely-used food spice and flavoring material, and its metabolite sodium benzoate (NaB), a widely-used food preservative and a FDA-approved drug against urea cycle disorders in humans, in increasing the levels of neurotrophic factors [e.g., brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and neurotrophin-3 (NT-3)] in the CNS. NaB, but not sodium formate (NaFO), dose-dependently induced the expression of BDNF and NT-3 in primary human neurons and astrocytes. Interestingly, oral administration of ground cinnamon increased the level of NaB in serum and brain and upregulated the levels of these neurotrophic factors in vivo in mouse CNS. Accordingly, oral feeding of NaB, but not NaFO, also increased the level of these neurotrophic factors in vivo in the CNS of mice. NaB induced the activation of protein kinase A (PKA), but not protein kinase C (PKC), and H-89, an inhibitor of PKA, abrogated NaB-induced increase in neurotrophic factors. Furthermore, activation of cAMP response element binding (CREB) protein, but not NF-kappaB, by NaB, abrogation of NaB-induced expression of neurotrophic factors by siRNA knockdown of CREB and the recruitment of CREB and CREB-binding protein to the BDNF promoter by NaB suggest that NaB exerts its neurotrophic effect through the activation of CREB. Accordingly, cinnamon feeding also increased the activity of PKA and the level of phospho-CREB in vivo in the CNS. These results highlight a novel neutrophic property of cinnamon and its metabolite NaB via PKA - CREB pathway, which may be of benefit for various neurodegenerative disorders.
Jana A et al; J Neuroimmune Pharmacol 8 (3): 739-55 (2013)

9.5 Mechanism of Action

DJ-1 (PARK7) is a neuroprotective protein that protects cells from oxidative stress. Accordingly, loss-of-function DJ-1 mutations have been linked with a familial form of early onset Parkinson disease. Mechanisms by which DJ-1 level could be enriched in the CNS are poorly understood. Recently we have discovered anti-inflammatory activity of sodium benzoate (NaB), a metabolite of cinnamon and a widely-used food additive. Here we delineate that NaB is also capable of increasing the level of DJ-1 in primary mouse and human astrocytes and human neurons highlighting another novel neuroprotective effect of this compound. Reversal of DJ-1-inducing effect of NaB by mevalonate, farnesyl phosphate, but not cholesterol and ubiquinone, suggests that depletion of intermediates, but not end products, of the mevalonate pathway is involved in the induction of DJ-1 by NaB. Accordingly, either an inhibitor of p21(ras) farnesyl protein transferase (FPTI) or a dominant-negative mutant of p21(ras) alone was also able to increase the expression of DJ-1 in astrocytes suggesting an involvement of p21(ras) in DJ-1 expression. However, an inhibitor of geranyl geranyl transferase (GGTI) and a dominant-negative mutant of p21(rac) had no effect on the expression of DJ-1, indicating the specificity of the effect. Similarly lipopolysaccharide (LPS), an activator of small G proteins, also inhibited the expression of DJ-1, and NaB and FPTI, but not GGTI, abrogated LPS-mediated inhibition. Together, these results suggest that NaB upregulates DJ-1 via modulation of mevalonate metabolites and that p21(ras), but not p21(rac), is involved in the regulation of DJ-1.
Khasnavis S, Pahan K; J Neuroimmune Pharmacol 7 (2): 424-35 (2012)
This study underlines the importance of cinnamon, a widely-used food spice and flavoring material, and its metabolite sodium benzoate (NaB), a widely-used food preservative and a FDA-approved drug against urea cycle disorders in humans, in increasing the levels of neurotrophic factors [e.g., brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and neurotrophin-3 (NT-3)] in the CNS. NaB, but not sodium formate (NaFO), dose-dependently induced the expression of BDNF and NT-3 in primary human neurons and astrocytes. Interestingly, oral administration of ground cinnamon increased the level of NaB in serum and brain and upregulated the levels of these neurotrophic factors in vivo in mouse CNS. Accordingly, oral feeding of NaB, but not NaFO, also increased the level of these neurotrophic factors in vivo in the CNS of mice. NaB induced the activation of protein kinase A (PKA), but not protein kinase C (PKC), and H-89, an inhibitor of PKA, abrogated NaB-induced increase in neurotrophic factors. Furthermore, activation of cAMP response element binding (CREB) protein, but not NF-kappaB, by NaB, abrogation of NaB-induced expression of neurotrophic factors by siRNA knockdown of CREB and the recruitment of CREB and CREB-binding protein to the BDNF promoter by NaB suggest that NaB exerts its neurotrophic effect through the activation of CREB. Accordingly, cinnamon feeding also increased the activity of PKA and the level of phospho-CREB in vivo in the CNS. These results highlight a novel neutrophic property of cinnamon and its metabolite NaB via PKA - CREB pathway, which may be of benefit for various neurodegenerative disorders.
Jana A et al; J Neuroimmune Pharmacol 8 (3): 739-55 (2013)

10 Use and Manufacturing

10.1 Uses

Cosmetic Ingredient Review Link
CIR ingredient: Sodium Benzoate
EPA CPDat Chemical and Product Categories
The Chemical and Products Database, a resource for exposure-relevant data on chemicals in consumer products, Scientific Data, volume 5, Article number: 180125 (2018), DOI:10.1038/sdata.2018.125
Sources/Uses
Used as an intermediate and preservative (foods, pharmaceuticals, lotions, mouthwashes, and water-based paint); [HSDB] Used as flavoring agent, adjuvant in foods, clinical reagent (bilirubin assay), and diagnostic aid (hepatic function); [Merck Index] Used as corrosion inhibitor in engine cooling systems; [CHEMINFO]
Merck Index - O'Neil MJ, Heckelman PE, Dobbelaar PH, Roman KJ (eds). The Merck Index, An Encyclopedia of Chemicals, Drugs, and Biologicals, 15th Ed. Cambridge, UK: The Royal Society of Chemistry, 2013.
Industrial Processes with risk of exposure
For sodium benzoate (USEPA/OPP Pesticide Code: 009103) there are 0 labels match. /SRP: Not registered for current use in the U.S., but approved pesticide uses may change periodically and so federal, state and local authorities must be consulted for currently approved uses./
National Pesticide Information Retrieval System's Database on Sodium Benzoate (532-32-1). Available from, as of July 7, 2016: https://npirspublic.ceris.purdue.edu/ppis/

Reported uses (ppm):

Table: Reported uses (ppm): (Flavor and Extract Manufacturers' Association, 1994)

Food Category
Alcoholic beverages
Usual
0.04
Max.
0.04
Food Category
Baked goods
Usual
0.49
Max.
1.10
Food Category
Breakfast cereals
Usual
0.05
Max.
0.05
Food Category
Cheese
Usual
0.00
Max.
0.00
Food Category
Condiments, relishes
Usual
0.80
Max.
1.07
Food Category
Confection, frosting
Usual
0.94
Max.
0.94
Food Category
Fats, oils
Usual
0.97
Max.
0.98
Food Category
Frozen dairy
Usual
0.12
Max.
0.15
Food Category
Fruit ices
Usual
0.50
Max.
0.50
Food Category
Fruit juice
Usual
0.70
Max.
0.91
Food Category
Gelatins, puddings
Usual
0.72
Max.
0.95
Food Category
Gravies
Usual
0.55
Max.
0.73
Food Category
Hard candy
Usual
0.01
Max.
0.01
Food Category
Imitation dairy
Usual
0.30
Max.
0.80
Food Category
Instant coffee, tea
Usual
0.02
Max.
0.10
Food Category
Jams, jellies
Usual
0.75
Max.
1.00
Food Category
Meat products
Usual
0.04
Max.
0.08
Food Category
Milk products
Usual
0.18
Max.
0.32
Food Category
Nonalcoholic beverages
Usual
0.39
Max.
0.60
Food Category
Processed vegetables
Usual
0.77
Max.
1.00
Food Category
Sweet sauce
Usual
0.89
Max.
2.92
Food Category
Soft candy
Usual
0.21
Max.
0.31

Burdock, G.A. (ed.). Fenaroli's Handbook of Flavor Ingredients. 6th ed.Boca Raton, FL 2010, p. 1841
Food preservative, antiseptic, medicine, tobacco, pharmaceutical preparations, intermediate for manufacture of dyes, rust and mildew inhibitor.
Larranaga, M.D., Lewis, R.J. Sr., Lewis, R.A.; Hawley's Condensed Chemical Dictionary 16th Edition. John Wiley & Sons, Inc. Hoboken, NJ 2016., p. 1233
Benzoic acid and sodium benzoate are used as preservatives in beverages, fruit products, chemically leavened baked goods, and condiments, preferably in a pH range below 4.5.
International Programme on Chemical Safety's Concise International Chemical Assessment Documents. Number 26: Benzoic Acid and Sodium Benzoate (2000). Available from, as of April 27, 2016: https://www.inchem.org/pages/cicads.html
For more Uses (Complete) data for SODIUM BENZOATE (9 total), please visit the HSDB record page.
Plastics -> Typical concentration range in plastic materials -> 0.2%
S47 | ECHAPLASTICS | A list from the Plastic Additives Initiative Mapping Exercise by ECHA | DOI:10.5281/zenodo.2658139

10.1.1 Use Classification

EPA Safer Chemical Functional Use Classes -> Preservatives and Antioxidants
Safer Chemical Classes -> Green circle Green circle - The chemical has been verified to be of low concern
Food additives
Human Drugs -> FDA Approved Drug Products with Therapeutic Equivalence Evaluations (Orange Book) -> Active Ingredients
Fragrance Ingredients
Food Additives -> PRESERVATIVE; -> JECFA Functional Classes
Cosmetics -> Preservative
S13 | EUCOSMETICS | Combined Inventory of Ingredients Employed in Cosmetic Products (2000) and Revised Inventory (2006) | DOI:10.5281/zenodo.2624118
Plastics -> Nucleating agents
S47 | ECHAPLASTICS | A list from the Plastic Additives Initiative Mapping Exercise by ECHA | DOI:10.5281/zenodo.2658139
Plastics -> Polymer Type -> Polyolefin-II
S47 | ECHAPLASTICS | A list from the Plastic Additives Initiative Mapping Exercise by ECHA | DOI:10.5281/zenodo.2658139

10.1.2 Industry Uses

  • Pigments
  • Other
  • Abrasives
  • Finishing agents
  • Preservative
  • Paint additives and coating additives not described by other categories
  • Processing aids, not otherwise listed
  • Surface active agents
  • Antioxidant
  • Lubricants and lubricant additives
  • Other (specify)
  • Laboratory chemicals
  • Adhesives and sealant chemicals
  • Functional fluids (closed systems)
  • Emulsifier
  • Not Known or Reasonably Ascertainable

10.1.3 Consumer Uses

  • Cleaning agent
  • Agricultural chemicals (non-pesticidal)
  • Preservative
  • Corrosion inhibitor
  • Pigments
  • Not Known or Reasonably Ascertainable
  • Functional fluids (closed systems)
  • Emulsifier
  • Adhesives and sealant chemicals
  • Laboratory chemicals
  • Lubricants and lubricant additives
  • Other (specify)
  • Adhesion/cohesion promoter
  • Antioxidant

10.1.4 Household Products

Household & Commercial/Institutional Products

Information on 874 consumer products that contain Sodium benzoate in the following categories is provided:

• Auto Products

• Commercial / Institutional

• Hobby/Craft

• Home Maintenance

• Inside the Home

• Personal Care

• Pesticides

• Pet Care

10.2 Methods of Manufacturing

Produced by the neutralization of benzoic acid with sodium bicarbonate, sodium carbonate or sodium hydroxide.
Burdock, G.A. (ed.). Fenaroli's Handbook of Flavor Ingredients. 6th ed.Boca Raton, FL 2010, p. 1841
Benzoic acid is neutralized with sodium bicarbonate solution, the solution filtered, concentrated, and allowed to crystallize.
Larranaga, M.D., Lewis, R.J. Sr., Lewis, R.A.; Hawley's Condensed Chemical Dictionary 16th Edition. John Wiley & Sons, Inc. Hoboken, NJ 2016., p. 1233
Sodium benzoate is produced by the neutralization of benzoic acid with caustic soda and/or soda ash. The resulting solution is then treated to remove trace impurities as well as color bodies and then dried in steam heated double drum dryers. The product removed from the dryers is light and fluffy and in order to reduce shipping and storage space the sodium benzoate is normally compacted. It is then milled and classified into two product forms; dense granular and dense powder. Sodium Benzoate is also available in extruded form.
Opgrande JL et al: Benzoic Acid. Kirk-Othmer Encyclopedia of Chemical Technology (1999-2016). John Wiley & Sons, Inc. Online Posting Date: May 16, 2003

10.3 Formulations / Preparations

Grade: USP, FCC /Food Chemicals Codex/, technical.
Larranaga, M.D., Lewis, R.J. Sr., Lewis, R.A.; Hawley's Condensed Chemical Dictionary 16th Edition. John Wiley & Sons, Inc. Hoboken, NJ 2016., p. 1233
National Formulary, Food Chemicals Codex dense powder, flake, low dusting dense beverage, granular and technical grades available.
Kuney, J.H. and J.N. Nullican (eds.) Chemcyclopedia. Washington, DC: American Chemical Society, 1988., p. 114
It is then milled and classified into two product forms; dense granular and dense powder. Sodium Benzoate is also available in extruded form.
Opgrande JL et al: Benzoic Acid. Kirk-Othmer Encyclopedia of Chemical Technology (1999-2016). John Wiley & Sons, Inc. Online Posting Date: May 16, 2003

10.4 U.S. Production

Aggregated Product Volume

2019: 20,000,000 lb - <100,000,000 lb

2018: 20,000,000 lb - <100,000,000 lb

2017: 20,000,000 lb - <100,000,000 lb

2016: 20,000,000 lb - <100,000,000 lb

(1972) 6.02X10+9 GRAMS
SRI
(1975) 4.32X10+9 GRAMS
SRI
(1985) 6.81X10+9 g to 9.08X10+9 g (demand)
Chem Mark Rep 228 (26): 16 (1985)
Non-confidential 2012 Chemical Data Reporting (CDR) information on the production and use of chemicals manufactured or imported into the United States. Chemical: Benzoic acid, sodium salt. National Production Volume: 51,960,109 lb/yr.
USEPA/Pollution Prevention and Toxics; 2012 Chemical Data Reporting Database. Benzoic acid, sodium salt (532-32-1). Available from, as of July 6, 2016: https://java.epa.gov/oppt_chemical_search/

10.5 U.S. Imports

(1972) 5.2X10+7 GRAMS
SRI
(1975) 1.06X10+8 GRAMS
SRI
(1984) 1.43X10+9 G
BUREAU OF THE CENSUS. U.S. IMPORTS FOR CONSUMPTION AND GENERAL IMPORTS 1984 p.1-338

10.6 General Manufacturing Information

Industry Processing Sectors
  • Other (requires additional information)
  • All Other Basic Organic Chemical Manufacturing
  • Paint and Coating Manufacturing
  • All Other Basic Inorganic Chemical Manufacturing
  • Miscellaneous Manufacturing
  • Wholesale and Retail Trade
  • Textiles, apparel, and leather manufacturing
  • Petroleum Lubricating Oil and Grease Manufacturing
  • Food, beverage, and tobacco product manufacturing
  • Mining (except Oil and Gas) and support activities
  • Not Known or Reasonably Ascertainable
  • Plastics Material and Resin Manufacturing
  • Soap, Cleaning Compound, and Toilet Preparation Manufacturing
  • Construction
  • Oil and Gas Drilling, Extraction, and Support activities
  • All Other Chemical Product and Preparation Manufacturing
  • Pharmaceutical and Medicine Manufacturing
  • Fabricated Metal Product Manufacturing
  • Plastics Product Manufacturing
EPA TSCA Commercial Activity Status
Benzoic acid, sodium salt (1:1): ACTIVE

11 Identification

11.1 Analytic Laboratory Methods

A rapid and sensitive fluorescence polarization immunoassay (FPIA), based on a polyclonal antibody, has been developed for the detection of sodium benzoate in spiked samples. The immunogen and fluorescein-labeled analyte conjugate were successfully synthesized, and the tracer was purified by TLC. Under the optimal assay conditions, the FPIA shows a detection range of 0.3-20.0 ug/mL for sodium benzoate with a detection limit of 0.26 ug/mL in the borate buffer. In addition, the IC50 value was 2.48 ug/mL, and the cross-reactivity of the antibodies with ten structurally and functionally related analogs were detected respectively. Four kinds of food samples (energy drink, candy, ice sucker, RIO(TM) cocktail) were selected to evaluate the application of FPIA in real systems. The recoveries were 96.68-106.55% in energy drink; 95.78-100.80% in candy, 86.97-102.70% in ice sucker, and 103.58-109.87% in benzoate contained sample RIO(TM) cocktail, and coefficients of variation of this method were all lower than 11.25%. Comparing with the detection results of HPLC, the developed FPIA has comparative performance in the real sample determination. The results suggest that the FPIA developed in this study is a rapid, convenient and simple method, which is suitable to be used as a screening tool for homogeneous detection of sodium benzoate in food products.
Ren L et al; Talanta 121: 136-43 (2014)
Potassium sorbate and sodium benzoate are food additives that are generally employed for prevention of food spoilage originating from bacteria, molds or yeasts. Although these compounds were generally recognized as safe due to their low risk of acute and chronic toxicity, they have limitations of usage to protect human health. Development and validation of a novel RP-HPLC method, in which a C18-bonded monolithic silica column was used as stationary phase to assay these compounds, is described for the first time. Aliquots of 10 uL of samples were injected into chromatograph and eluted using phosphate buffer (0.025 M, pH 2.0)-water-acetonitrile (50:45:5, v/v/v) solution, which was pumped at the rate of 3.0 mL/min. To sharpen the peaks, 10 mM octylamine was added to the mobile phase. Potassium sorbate and sodium benzoate were detected at about 12th and 14th min, respectively, and quantified at 230 nm using photodiode array detector. A total of 41 samples were prepared by simply filtering through 0.45 um filters after sonication, and injected into the system without any pre-treatment steps. Applicability of the method was demonstrated by performing total procedure on samples of different brands and types, and their compliance to official regulations was assessed.
Can NO et al; J Sep Sci 34 (16-17): 2214-22 (2011)
Sodium benzoate in soda beverages using liquid chromatographic method.
Association of Official Analytical Chemists. Official Methods of Analysis. 15th ed. and Supplements. Washington, DC: Association of Analytical Chemists, 1990, p. 15/752 979.08

12 Safety and Hazards

12.1 Hazards Identification

12.1.1 GHS Classification

1 of 3
View All
Note
This chemical does not meet GHS hazard criteria for 63% (1827 of 2902) of all reports. Pictograms displayed are for 37% (1075 of 2902) of reports that indicate hazard statements.
Pictogram(s)
Irritant
Signal
Warning
GHS Hazard Statements
H319 (36.7%): Causes serious eye irritation [Warning Serious eye damage/eye irritation]
Precautionary Statement Codes

P264+P265, P280, P305+P351+P338, and P337+P317

(The corresponding statement to each P-code can be found at the GHS Classification page.)

ECHA C&L Notifications Summary

Aggregated GHS information provided per 2902 reports by companies from 12 notifications to the ECHA C&L Inventory.

Reported as not meeting GHS hazard criteria per 1827 of 2902 reports by companies. For more detailed information, please visit ECHA C&L website.

There are 10 notifications provided by 1075 of 2902 reports by companies with hazard statement code(s).

Information may vary between notifications depending on impurities, additives, and other factors. The percentage value in parenthesis indicates the notified classification ratio from companies that provide hazard codes. Only hazard codes with percentage values above 10% are shown.

12.1.2 Hazard Classes and Categories

Eye Irrit. 2A (36.7%)
Serious eye damage/eye irritation - Category 2A

12.1.3 EPA Safer Chemical

Chemical: Benzoic acid, sodium Salt

Green circle Green circle - The chemical has been verified to be of low concern based on experimental and modeled data.

12.1.4 Fire Hazards

Combustible under specific conditions. Gives off irritating or toxic fumes (or gases) in a fire. Finely dispersed particles form explosive mixtures in air.

12.1.5 Hazards Summary

A mild eye irritant; [ICSC] Rats fed sodium benzoate at 8% of their diet for 90 days showed less weight gain and other physiological changes; [HSDB] May cause temporary hives; [CHEMINFO] Can cause non-immunological contact urticaria; [Kanerva, p. 219] Rapidly absorbed and excreted in the urine as hippuric acid; [Reference #1] TLV Basis: kidney changes; [ACGIH] May cause irritation; [MSDSonline]
Kanerva - Rustemeyer L, Elsner P, John SM, Maibach HI (eds). Kanerva's Occupational Dermatology, 2nd Ed. Berlin: Springer-Verlag, 2012., p. 219
ACGIH - Documentation of the TLVs and BEIs, 7th Ed. Cincinnati: ACGIH Worldwide, 2020.

12.1.6 Fire Potential

Combustible when exposed to heat or flame.
Lewis, R.J. Sr. (ed) Sax's Dangerous Properties of Industrial Materials. 11th Edition. Wiley-Interscience, Wiley & Sons, Inc. Hoboken, NJ. 2004., p. 3232
Sodium benzoate is combustible.
Pohanish, R.P. (ed). Sittig's Handbook of Toxic and Hazardous Chemical Carcinogens 6th Edition Volume 1: A-K,Volume 2: L-Z. William Andrew, Waltham, MA 2012, p. 2388

12.1.7 Skin, Eye, and Respiratory Irritations

... Sodium benzoate was only slightly irritating to the eye ... .
International Programme on Chemical Safety's Concise International Chemical Assessment Documents. Number 26: Benzoic Acid and Sodium Benzoate (2000). Available from, as of April 27, 2016: https://www.inchem.org/pages/cicads.html
The test substance is neither an irritant nor sensitizer when applied to guinea pigs.
European Chemicals Agency (ECHA); Registered Substances, Sodium benzoate (CAS Number: 532-32-1) (EC Number: 208-534-8) (Last updated: March 18, 2016). Available from, as of April 27, 2016: https://echa.europa.eu/

12.2 Safety and Hazard Properties

12.2.1 Physical Dangers

Dust explosion possible if in powder or granular form, mixed with air.

12.3 First Aid Measures

Inhalation First Aid
Fresh air, rest.
Skin First Aid
Rinse skin with plenty of water or shower.
Eye First Aid
First rinse with plenty of water for several minutes (remove contact lenses if easily possible), then refer for medical attention.
Ingestion First Aid
Do NOT induce vomiting. Give one or two glasses of water to drink. Refer for medical attention .

12.4 Fire Fighting

Use water spray, powder, foam, carbon dioxide.

12.4.1 Fire Fighting Procedures

Suitable extinguishing media: Use water spray, alcohol-resistant foam, dry chemical or carbon dioxide.
Sigma-Aldrich; Safety Data Sheet for Sodium benzoate. Product Number: 71295, Version 4.6 (Revision Date 09/19/2014). Available from, as of April 26, 2016: https://www.sigmaaldrich.com/safety-center.html
Advice for firefighters: Wear self-contained breathing apparatus for firefighting if necessary.
Sigma-Aldrich; Safety Data Sheet for Sodium benzoate. Product Number: 71295, Version 4.6 (Revision Date 09/19/2014). Available from, as of April 26, 2016: https://www.sigmaaldrich.com/safety-center.html
Use dry chemical, carbon dioxide, water spray, or foam extinguishers. ... If material or contaminated runoff enters waterways, notify downstream users of potentially contaminated waters. Notify local health and fire officials and pollution control agencies. From a secure, explosion-proof location, use water spray to cool exposed containers. If cooling steams are ineffective (venting sound increases in volume and pitch, tank discolors, or shows any signs of deforming), withdraw immediately to a secure position.
Pohanish, R.P. (ed). Sittig's Handbook of Toxic and Hazardous Chemical Carcinogens 6th Edition Volume 1: A-K,Volume 2: L-Z. William Andrew, Waltham, MA 2012, p. 2388

12.5 Accidental Release Measures

12.5.1 Spillage Disposal

Personal protection: particulate filter respirator adapted to the airborne concentration of the substance. Sweep spilled substance into covered containers.

12.5.2 Cleanup Methods

ACCIDENTAL RELEASE MEASURES: Personal precautions, protective equipment and emergency procedures: Use personal protective equipment. Avoid dust formation. Avoid breathing vapors, mist or gas. Ensure adequate ventilation. Avoid breathing dust. Environmental precautions: Do not let product enter drains. Methods and materials for containment and cleaning up: Pick up and arrange disposal without creating dust. Sweep up and shovel. Keep in suitable, closed containers for disposal.
Sigma-Aldrich; Safety Data Sheet for Sodium benzoate. Product Number: 71295, Version 4.6 (Revision Date 09/19/2014). Available from, as of April 26, 2016: https://www.sigmaaldrich.com/safety-center.html
Evacuate persons not wearing protective equipment from area of spill or leak until cleanup is complete. Remove all ignition sources. Collect powdered material in the most convenient and safe manner and deposit in sealed containers. Ventilate area after cleanup is complete. It may be necessary to contain and dispose of this chemical as a hazardous waste. If material or contaminated runoff enters waterways, notify downstream users of potentially contaminated waters.
Pohanish, R.P. (ed). Sittig's Handbook of Toxic and Hazardous Chemical Carcinogens 6th Edition Volume 1: A-K,Volume 2: L-Z. William Andrew, Waltham, MA 2012, p. 2388

12.5.3 Disposal Methods

SRP: Recycle any unused portion of the material for its approved use or return it to the manufacturer or supplier. Ultimate disposal of the chemical must consider: the material's impact on air quality; potential migration in air, soil or water; effects on animal, aquatic and plant life; and conformance with environmental and public health regulations. If it is possible or reasonable use an alternative chemical product with less inherent propensity for occupational harm/injury/toxicity or environmental contamination.
SRP: Wastewater from contaminant suppression, cleaning of protective clothing/equipment, or contaminated sites should be contained and evaluated for subject chemical or decomposition product concentrations. Concentrations shall be lower than applicable environmental discharge or disposal criteria. Alternatively, pretreatment and/or discharge to a permitted wastewater treatment facility is acceptable only after review by the governing authority and assurance that "pass through" violations will not occur. Due consideration shall be given to remediation worker exposure (inhalation, dermal and ingestion) as well as fate during treatment, transfer and disposal. If it is not practicable to manage the chemical in this fashion, it must be evaluated in accordance with EPA 40 CFR Part 261, specifically Subpart B, in order to determine the appropriate local, state and federal requirements for disposal.
Product: Offer surplus and non-recyclable solutions to a licensed disposal company. Contact a licensed professional waste disposal service to dispose of this material; Contaminated packaging: Dispose of as unused product.
Sigma-Aldrich; Safety Data Sheet for Sodium benzoate. Product Number: 71295, Version 4.6 (Revision Date 09/19/2014). Available from, as of April 26, 2016: https://www.sigmaaldrich.com/safety-center.html

12.5.4 Preventive Measures

ACCIDENTAL RELEASE MEASURES: Personal precautions, protective equipment and emergency procedures: Use personal protective equipment. Avoid dust formation. Avoid breathing vapors, mist or gas. Ensure adequate ventilation. Avoid breathing dust. Environmental precautions: Do not let product enter drains.
Sigma-Aldrich; Safety Data Sheet for Sodium benzoate. Product Number: 71295, Version 4.6 (Revision Date 09/19/2014). Available from, as of April 26, 2016: https://www.sigmaaldrich.com/safety-center.html
Precautions for safe handling: Avoid contact with skin and eyes. Avoid formation of dust and aerosols. Provide appropriate exhaust ventilation at places where dust is formed.
Sigma-Aldrich; Safety Data Sheet for Sodium benzoate. Product Number: 71295, Version 4.6 (Revision Date 09/19/2014). Available from, as of April 26, 2016: https://www.sigmaaldrich.com/safety-center.html
Gloves must be inspected prior to use. Use proper glove removal technique (without touching glove's outer surface) to avoid skin contact with this product. Dispose of contaminated gloves after use in accordance with applicable laws and good laboratory practices. Wash and dry hands.
Sigma-Aldrich; Safety Data Sheet for Sodium benzoate. Product Number: 71295, Version 4.6 (Revision Date 09/19/2014). Available from, as of April 26, 2016: https://www.sigmaaldrich.com/safety-center.html
SRP: Local exhaust ventilation should be applied wherever there is an incidence of point source emissions or dispersion of regulated contaminants in the work area. Ventilation control of the contaminant as close to its point of generation is both the most economical and safest method to minimize personnel exposure to airborne contaminants. Ensure that the local ventilation moves the contaminant away from the worker.
For more Preventive Measures (Complete) data for SODIUM BENZOATE (7 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

12.6 Handling and Storage

12.6.1 Storage Conditions

Keep container tightly closed in a dry and well-ventilated place. Hygroscopic. Keep in a dry place.
Sigma-Aldrich; Safety Data Sheet for Sodium benzoate. Product Number: 71295, Version 4.6 (Revision Date 09/19/2014). Available from, as of April 26, 2016: https://www.sigmaaldrich.com/safety-center.html
Store in a secure poison location. ... Store in tightly closed containers in a cool, well-ventilated area away from strong oxidizers. Where possible, automatically transfer material from drums or other storage containers to process containers. Sources of ignition, such as smoking and open flames, are prohibited where this chemical is handled, used, or stored. Metal containers involving the transfer of this chemical should be grounded and bonded. Wherever this chemical is used, handled, manufactured, or stored, use explosion-proof electrical equipment and fittings.
Pohanish, R.P. (ed). Sittig's Handbook of Toxic and Hazardous Chemical Carcinogens 6th Edition Volume 1: A-K,Volume 2: L-Z. William Andrew, Waltham, MA 2012, p. 2388

12.7 Exposure Control and Personal Protection

12.7.1 Threshold Limit Values (TLV)

2.5 [mg/m3], inhalable particulate matter, measured as benzoate

12.7.2 Inhalation Risk

A nuisance-causing concentration of airborne particles can be reached quickly when dispersed, especially if powdered.

12.7.3 Effects of Short Term Exposure

The substance is mildly irritating to the eyes.

12.7.4 Allowable Tolerances

Unless specifically excluded, residues resulting from the use of the following substance as either an inert or an active ingredient in a pesticide chemical formulation, including antimicrobial pesticide chemicals, is exempted from the requirement of a tolerance under FFDCA section 408, if such use is in accordance with good agricultural or manufacturing practices. Benzoic acid, sodium salt is included on this list.
40 CFR 180.950 (USEPA); U.S. National Archives and Records Administration's Electronic Code of Federal Regulations. Available from, as of July 6, 2016: https://www.ecfr.gov

12.7.5 Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Eye/face protection: Safety glasses with side-shields conforming to EN166. Use equipment for eye protection tested and approved under appropriate government standards such as NIOSH (US) or EN 166(EU).
Sigma-Aldrich; Safety Data Sheet for Sodium benzoate. Product Number: 71295, Version 4.6 (Revision Date 09/19/2014). Available from, as of April 26, 2016: https://www.sigmaaldrich.com/safety-center.html
Skin protection: Handle with gloves.
Sigma-Aldrich; Safety Data Sheet for Sodium benzoate. Product Number: 71295, Version 4.6 (Revision Date 09/19/2014). Available from, as of April 26, 2016: https://www.sigmaaldrich.com/safety-center.html
Body Protection: Impervious clothing. The type of protective equipment must be selected according to the concentration and amount of the dangerous substance at the specific workplace.
Sigma-Aldrich; Safety Data Sheet for Sodium benzoate. Product Number: 71295, Version 4.6 (Revision Date 09/19/2014). Available from, as of April 26, 2016: https://www.sigmaaldrich.com/safety-center.html
Respiratory protection: For nuisance exposures use type P95 (US) or type P1 (EU EN 143) particle respirator. For higher level protection use type OV/AG/P99 (US) or type ABEK-P2 (EU EN 143) respirator cartridges. Use respirators and components tested and approved under appropriate government standards such as NIOSH (US) or CEN (EU).
Sigma-Aldrich; Safety Data Sheet for Sodium benzoate. Product Number: 71295, Version 4.6 (Revision Date 09/19/2014). Available from, as of April 26, 2016: https://www.sigmaaldrich.com/safety-center.html
For more Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) (Complete) data for SODIUM BENZOATE (6 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

12.7.6 Preventions

Fire Prevention
NO open flames. Closed system, dust explosion-proof electrical equipment and lighting. Prevent deposition of dust.
Inhalation Prevention
Avoid inhalation of dust.
Skin Prevention
Protective gloves. Protective clothing.
Eye Prevention
Wear safety goggles.
Ingestion Prevention
Do not eat, drink, or smoke during work.

12.8 Stability and Reactivity

12.8.1 Hazardous Reactivities and Incompatibilities

Incompatible materials: Strong oxidizing agents
Sigma-Aldrich; Safety Data Sheet for Sodium benzoate. Product Number: 71295, Version 4.6 (Revision Date 09/19/2014). Available from, as of April 26, 2016: https://www.sigmaaldrich.com/safety-center.html

12.9 Regulatory Information

The Australian Inventory of Industrial Chemicals
Chemical: Benzoic acid, sodium salt (1:1)
REACH Registered Substance
New Zealand EPA Inventory of Chemical Status
Sodium benzoate: Non hazardous

12.9.1 Atmospheric Standards

This action promulgates standards of performance for equipment leaks of Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC) in the Synthetic Organic Chemical Manufacturing Industry (SOCMI). The intended effect of these standards is to require all newly constructed, modified, and reconstructed SOCMI process units to use the best demonstrated system of continuous emission reduction for equipment leaks of VOC, considering costs, nonair quality health and environmental impact and energy requirements. Sodium benzoate is produced, as an intermediate or a final product, by process units covered under this subpart.
40 CFR 60.489 (USEPA); U.S. National Archives and Records Administration's Electronic Code of Federal Regulations. Available from, as of July 6, 2016: https://www.ecfr.gov

12.9.2 FIFRA Requirements

Unless specifically excluded, residues resulting from the use of the following substance as either an inert or an active ingredient in a pesticide chemical formulation, including antimicrobial pesticide chemicals, is exempted from the requirement of a tolerance under FFDCA section 408, if such use is in accordance with good agricultural or manufacturing practices. Benzoic acid, sodium salt is included on this list.
40 CFR 180.950 (USEPA); U.S. National Archives and Records Administration's Electronic Code of Federal Regulations. Available from, as of July 6, 2016: https://www.ecfr.gov

12.9.3 FDA Requirements

Substances classified as antimycotics, when migrating from food-packaging material shall include: ... sodium benzoate.
21 CFR 181.23 (USFDA); U.S. National Archives and Records Administration's Electronic Code of Federal Regulations. Available from, as of July 6, 2016: https://www.ecfr.gov
Substance added directly to human food affirmed as generally recognized as safe (GRAS). The ingredient is used in food at levels not to exceed good manufacturing practice. Current usage results in a maximum level of 0.1 percent in food.
21 CFR 184.1733 (USFDA); U.S. National Archives and Records Administration's Electronic Code of Federal Regulations. Available from, as of July 6, 2016: https://www.ecfr.gov
Sodium benzoate used as a chemical preservative at a level not exceeding 1% in animal drugs, feeds, and related products is generally recognized as safe when used in accordance with good manufacturing or feeding practice.
21 CFR 582.3733 (USFDA); U.S. National Archives and Records Administration's Electronic Code of Federal Regulations. Available from, as of July 6, 2016: https://www.ecfr.gov
Drug products containing certain active ingredients offered over-the-counter (OTC) for certain uses. A number of active ingredients have been present in OTC drug products for various uses, as described below. However, based on evidence currently available, there are inadequate data to establish general recognition of the safety and effectiveness of these ingredients for the specified uses: sodium benzoate is included in orally administered menstrual drug products.
21 CFR 310.545(a) (24); U.S. National Archives and Records Administration's Electronic Code of Federal Regulations. Available from, as of July 6, 2016: https://www.ecfr.gov

12.10 Other Safety Information

Chemical Assessment

IMAP assessments - Benzoic acid, sodium salt: Environment tier I assessment

IMAP assessments - Benzoic acid, sodium salt: Human health tier I assessment

12.10.1 Toxic Combustion Products

Special hazards arising from the substance or mixture: Carbon oxides, Sodium oxides
Sigma-Aldrich; Safety Data Sheet for Sodium benzoate. Product Number: 71295, Version 4.6 (Revision Date 09/19/2014). Available from, as of April 26, 2016: https://www.sigmaaldrich.com/safety-center.html
Poisonous gases are produced in fire, including sodium oxide.
Pohanish, R.P. (ed). Sittig's Handbook of Toxic and Hazardous Chemical Carcinogens 6th Edition Volume 1: A-K,Volume 2: L-Z. William Andrew, Waltham, MA 2012, p. 2388

13 Toxicity

13.1 Toxicological Information

13.1.1 Toxicity Summary

IDENTIFICATION AND USE: Sodium benzoate is a colorless crystalline powder. It is used as food preservative, antiseptic, medicine, in tobacco, in pharmaceutical preparations, as an intermediate for manufacture of dyes, and as a rust and mildew inhibitor. HUMAN EXPOSURE AND TOXICITY: In a study with 2045 patients of dermatological clinics, only 5 persons (approximately 0.2%) showed a positive reaction in patch tests, while 34 of 5202 patients (approximately 0.7%) with contact urticaria reacted positively. Cases of urticaria, asthma, rhinitis, or anaphylactic shock have been reported following oral, dermal, or inhalation exposure to sodium benzoate. The symptoms appear shortly after exposure and disappear within a few hours. Chromosome aberration test was carried out on sodium benzoate using human embryonic lung culture cells. Sodium benzoate produced no significant increase in the aberration frequency in the anaphase chromosomes when tested at the dosage levels 0, 2.0 ug/mL, 20 ug/mL and 200 g/mL. In human embryonic lung cells (WI-38) treated with sodium benzoate both chromosome abnormalities and mitotic indices were within normal values. Sodium benzoate was mutagenic and cytotoxic in lymphocytes, where it caused micronucleus formation and chromosome break. ANIMAL STUDIES: An acute dermal irritation/corrosion study gave no indication for skin irritating effect in rabbits. Sodium benzoate was only slightly irritating to the eye. In a 90-day study with rats dosed with 0, 1, 2, 4, or 8% sodium benzoate via diet, the mortality in the highest dose group (approx. 6290 mg/kg body weight per day) was about 50%. Other effects in this group included a reduced weight gain, increased relative weights of liver and kidneys, and pathological changes in these organs. Sodium benzoate was given in drinking water to 50 female and 50 male mice from weeks 5 on for lifespan. The average daily intake of sodium benzoate was 119.2 mg for a female and 124.0 mg for a male (approx. 5.95 - 6.2 g/kg bw/d). There was no effect on the survival of the treated mice when compared with the untreated control. There were no significant differences between the tumor distribution in sodium benzoate-treated and untreated control mice. In a developmental study rats were injected intraperitoneally with 100, 315, or 1000 mg/kg sodium benzoate on gestation days 9 to 11 or 12 to 14. Reduced fetal body weight, increased in utero deaths (by 12%), and gross anomalies were noted at the highest dose. No evidence of teratogenicity was noted in rats administered 510 mg/kg of sodium benzoate by gavage on gestation days 9 to 11. Sodium benzoate (up to 3.0 mg/plate) was tested in the Salmonella/microsome test using S. typhimurium TA 92, TA 94, TA 98, TA 100, TA 1535 and TA 1537. No significant increases in the numbers of revertant colonies were detected in any S. typhimurium strains at the maximum dose. Sodium benzoate tested negative in a cytogenetic assay (bone marrow) in rats after single or multiple oral application of doses up to 5000 mg/kg body weight. In a study with mice, there was also no indication of mutagenic activity in a host-mediated assay.

13.1.2 Symptoms

Inhalation Exposure
Cough.
Skin Exposure
Rash.
Eye Exposure
Redness.
Ingestion Exposure
Nausea. Vomiting. Abdominal pain.

13.1.3 Adverse Effects

Nephrotoxin - The chemical is potentially toxic to the kidneys in the occupational setting.

ACGIH Carcinogen - Not Suspected.

13.1.4 Acute Effects

13.1.5 Interactions

The GRAS report cited studies in which ingestion of sodium benzoate reduced the glycine-dependent formation of creatine, glutamine, urea, and uric acid and increased the effects of procaine, lidocaine, cocaine, tetracaine, and dibucaine. Under conditions of severely restricted fluid and salt intake, benzoates increased and prolonged the concentration of serum penicillin.
Cosmetic Ingredient Review; International Journal of Toxicology 20 (Suppl. 3): 23-50 (2001). Available from, as of April 27, 2016: https://www.beauty-review.nl/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/Final-report-on-the-safety-assessment-of-Benzyl-Alcohol-Benzoic-Acid-and-Sodium-Benzoate.pdf
The interaction between sodium benzoate (SB) and calf thymus DNA in simulated physiological buffer (pH 7.4) using acridine orange (AO) dye as a fluorescence probe, was investigated by UV-Vis absorption, fluorescence and circular dichroism (CD) spectroscopy along with DNA melting studies and viscosity measurements. An expanded UV-Vis spectral data matrix was resolved by multivariate curve resolution-alternating least squares (MCR-ALS) approach. The equilibrium concentration profiles and the pure spectra for SB, DNA and DNA-SB complex from the high overlapping composite response were simultaneously obtained. The results indicated that SB could bind to DNA, and hydrophobic interactions and hydrogen bonds played a vital role in the binding process. Moreover, SB was able to quench the fluorescence of DNA-AO complex through a static procedure. The quenching observed was indicative of an intercalative mode of interaction between SB and DNA, which was supported by melting studies, viscosity measurements and CD analysis.
Zhang G, Ma Y; Food Chem 141 (1): 41-7 (2013)

13.1.6 Antidote and Emergency Treatment

If this chemical gets into the eyes, remove any contact lenses at once and irrigate immediately for at least 15 min, occasionally lifting upper and lower lids. Seek medical attention immediately. If this chemical contacts the skin, remove contaminated clothing and wash immediately with soap and water. Seek medical attention immediately. If this chemical has been inhaled, remove from exposure, begin rescue breathing (using universal precautions, including resuscitation mask) if breathing has stopped and CPR if heart action has stopped. Transfer promptly to a medical facility. When this chemical has been swallowed, get medical attention. Give large quantities of water and induce vomiting. Do not make an unconscious person vomit.
Pohanish, R.P. (ed). Sittig's Handbook of Toxic and Hazardous Chemical Carcinogens 6th Edition Volume 1: A-K,Volume 2: L-Z. William Andrew, Waltham, MA 2012, p. 2387

13.1.7 Human Toxicity Excerpts

/HUMAN EXPOSURE STUDIES/ The information concerning skin reactions caused by benzoic acid or sodium benzoate in the general population is limited. In a study with 2045 patients of dermatological clinics, only 5 persons (approximately 0.2%) showed a positive reaction in patch tests, while 34 of 5202 patients (approximately 0.7%) with contact urticaria reacted positively. From these data, it can be concluded that skin reactions caused by benzoic acid or sodium benzoate in the healthy general population are rare.
International Programme on Chemical Safety's Concise International Chemical Assessment Documents. Number 26: Benzoic Acid and Sodium Benzoate (2000). Available from, as of April 27, 2016: https://www.inchem.org/pages/cicads.html
/HUMAN EXPOSURE STUDIES/ In Europe amoxicillin plus clavulanic acid is the most commonly prescribed antibiotic and sodium benzoate is contained in the suspension formulation as a preservative. We studied the relevance of sodium benzoate as the culprit agent in a group of children with a history of adverse reactions to amoxicillin plus clavulanic acid suspension. A total of 89 children were enrolled over a period of 3 years (2006-2009). Single blind oral provocation tests (OPTs) with amoxicillin plus clavulanic acid, sodium benzoate and placebo were performed. 20 children with recurrent idiopathic urticaria were investigated as a control group. According to personal history: 70% of reactions were late in developing while 23% of reactions were immediate and for 5% of the cases it was not possible to define the timing. 8 children (8/89=9%) resulted positive to the provocation tests with amoxicillin plus clavulanic acid; ten children (10/89=11%) had positive results with sodium benzoate; 3% had a double positivity (i.e. excipient and active drug). The timing of reactions significantly differs between the Amoxicillin plus clavulanic acid and sodium benzoate groups (p=0.002). Sodium benzoate probably acts through a non-immunologic mechanism and care should be given to children allergic to sodium benzoate containing pharmaceutical formulations.
Mori F et al; Curr Drug Saf 7 (2): 87-91 (2012)
/SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS/ Cases of urticaria, asthma, rhinitis, or anaphylactic shock have been reported following oral, dermal, or inhalation exposure to benzoic acid and sodium benzoate. The symptoms appear shortly after exposure and disappear within a few hours, even at low doses.
International Programme on Chemical Safety's Concise International Chemical Assessment Documents. Number 26: Benzoic Acid and Sodium Benzoate (2000). Available from, as of April 27, 2016: https://www.inchem.org/pages/cicads.html
/GENOTOXICITY/ Chromosome aberration test was carried out on sodium benzoate using human embryonic lung culture cells. Sodium benzoate produced no significant increase in the aberration frequency in the anaphase chromosomes when tested at the dosage levels 0, 2.0 ug/mL, 20 ug/mL and 200 g/mL.
European Commission/Scientific Committee on Consumer Products; Opinion on Benzoic Acid and Sodium Benzoate p. 17 (2005). Available from, as of April 27, 2016: https://ec.europa.eu/health/ph_risk/committees/04_sccp/docs/sccp_o_015.pdf
For more Human Toxicity Excerpts (Complete) data for SODIUM BENZOATE (10 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

13.1.8 Non-Human Toxicity Excerpts

/LABORATORY ANIMALS: Acute Exposure/ An acute dermal irritation/corrosion study with rabbits conducted according to OECD Guideline 404 ... as well as a non-standardized experiment with the solid substance ... gave no indication for skin irritating effects. In a study performed according to OECD Guideline 405 ... , sodium benzoate was only slightly irritating to the eye ... . The application of the solid substance in a non-standardized experiment caused no irritation ... .
International Programme on Chemical Safety's Concise International Chemical Assessment Documents. Number 26: Benzoic Acid and Sodium Benzoate (2000). Available from, as of April 27, 2016: https://www.inchem.org/pages/cicads.html
/LABORATORY ANIMALS: Subchronic or Prechronic Exposure/ ... Groups of 10 F344/N rats and B6C3F1 mice (5 of each sex) /were fed/ 1.81%, 2.09%, or 2.40% (rats) or 2.08%, 2.50%, or 3.00% (mice) sodium benzoate for 10 days. ... One male rat of the high-dose group ... died on day 8. Rats of the mid- and high-dose groups had significantly reduced mean body weight as compared to nontreated controls. Relative liver and kidney weights, as well as serum concentrations of albumin and total protein, were significantly increased in male rats of the mid- and high-dose group and in female rats of the high-dose group. Serum gamma-glutamyltranspeptidase activity was significantly increased in males and significantly decreased in females of the high-dose group. Serum cholesterol was significantly decreased in males of the high-dose group and in all dosed females as compared to controls. Changes in other parameters such as serum phospholipid and uric acid concentrations were sometimes significant but were non-dose-dependent. Enlarged hepatocytes with glassy cytoplasm were noted at microscopic examination of tissues from males of the high-dose group. ... 3 of 10 had convulsions and 2 of the 3 (both females) died before the end of the study. Mean body weights of mice of the treated groups were not significantly different from untreated controls. A dose-dependent increase in absolute and relative liver weight was noted; the increase was significant in mice of the high-dose group. Female mice of the high-dose group also had greater relative kidney weights. Serum cholesterol and phospholipid concentrations in male mice of the high-dose group, serum cholinesterase activities in male mice of the mid- and high-dose groups, and serum gamma-glutamyltranspeptidase activities of female mice of the mid-dose group were significantly greater than those of the control group. No significant changes were noted in serum concentrations of triglyceride, uric acid, and urea nitrogen, and activities of aspartame aminotransferase (AST) and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) or in the AST/ALT ratio. Enlargement, vacuolation and necrosis of hepatocytes were noted in male mice of the 3.0% group.
Cosmetic Ingredient Review; International Journal of Toxicology 20 (Suppl. 3): 23-50 (2001). Available from, as of April 27, 2016: https://www.beauty-review.nl/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/Final-report-on-the-safety-assessment-of-Benzyl-Alcohol-Benzoic-Acid-and-Sodium-Benzoate.pdf
/LABORATORY ANIMALS: Subchronic or Prechronic Exposure/ Dose levels from 16 to 1090 mg sodium benzoate/kg bw were given to groups of 10 rats (5 male and 5 female) for 30 days with the diet. No dose related adverse effects were observed.
European Commission/Scientific Committee on Consumer Products; Opinion on Benzoic Acid and Sodium Benzoate p. 15 (2005). Available from, as of April 27, 2016: https://ec.europa.eu/health/ph_risk/committees/04_sccp/docs/sccp_o_015.pdf
/LABORATORY ANIMALS: Subchronic or Prechronic Exposure/ Groups of 6 male and 6 female Sherman rats were given 2% (approx. 2.0 to 2.4 g/kg bw) or 5% (5.7 g/kg bw for females and 7.8 g/kg bw for males) sodium benzoate in the diet for 28 days. In the 5% dose group, all female rats died by day 11 and males by day 13. In the 2% dose group a slight significant body weight depression was observed in male rats.
European Commission/Scientific Committee on Consumer Products; Opinion on Benzoic Acid and Sodium Benzoate p. 15 (2005). Available from, as of April 27, 2016: https://ec.europa.eu/health/ph_risk/committees/04_sccp/docs/sccp_o_015.pdf
For more Non-Human Toxicity Excerpts (Complete) data for SODIUM BENZOATE (28 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

13.1.9 Non-Human Toxicity Values

LC50 Rat inhalation >12,200 mg/cu m air/4 hr
European Chemicals Agency (ECHA); Registered Substances, Sodium benzoate (CAS Number: 532-32-1) (EC Number: 208-534-8) (Last updated: March 18, 2016). Available from, as of April 27, 2016: https://echa.europa.eu/
LD50 Rat oral 3450 mg/kg bw
European Chemicals Agency (ECHA); Registered Substances, Sodium benzoate (CAS Number: 532-32-1) (EC Number: 208-534-8) (Last updated: March 18, 2016). Available from, as of April 27, 2016: https://echa.europa.eu/
LD50 Rabbit oral 2000 mg/kg
Lewis, R.J. Sr. (ed) Sax's Dangerous Properties of Industrial Materials. 11th Edition. Wiley-Interscience, Wiley & Sons, Inc. Hoboken, NJ. 2004., p. 3232
LD50 Mouse intramuscular 2306 mg/kg
Lewis, R.J. Sr. (ed) Sax's Dangerous Properties of Industrial Materials. 11th Edition. Wiley-Interscience, Wiley & Sons, Inc. Hoboken, NJ. 2004., p. 3232
For more Non-Human Toxicity Values (Complete) data for SODIUM BENZOATE (8 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

13.1.10 Ongoing Test Status

EPA has released the Interactive Chemical Safety for Sustainability (iCSS) Dashboard. The iCSS Dashboard provides an interactive tool to explore rapid, automated (or in vitro high-throughput) chemical screening data generated by the Toxicity Forecaster (ToxCast) project and the federal Toxicity Testing in the 21st century (Tox21) collaboration. /The title compound was tested by ToxCast and/or Tox21 assays/[USEPA; ICSS Dashboard Application; Available from, as of July 7, 2016: http://actor.epa.gov/dashboard/]

13.1.11 Populations at Special Risk

Low birthweight infants with immature livers may not be capable of metabolizing benzoate and hippurate. Sodium benzoate and sodium phenylacetate combination should not be administered to low birthweight infants unless the benefits of treatment outweight the risks.
US Pharmacopeial Convention; US Pharmacopeia Dispensing Information (USP DI); Drug Information for the Health Care Professional 12th ed, V.I p.2475 (1992)

13.2 Ecological Information

13.2.1 Ecotoxicity Values

LC50; Species: Asellus intermedius (Aquatic Sowbug) juvenile; Conditions: freshwater, static, 20 °C, pH 6.5-8.5, hardness 130 mg/L CaCO3, alkalinity 93 mg/L CaCO3; Concentration: >100000 ug/L for 96 hr
Ewell WS et al; Environ Toxicol Chem 5 (9): 831-840 (1986) as cited in the ECOTOX database. Available from, as of July 14, 2016
LC50; Species: Daphnia magna (Water flea) 1-2 instar larva; Conditions: freshwater, static, 20 °C, pH 6.5-8.5, hardness 130 mg/L CaCO3, alkalinity 93 mg/L CaCO3; Concentration: >100000 ug/L for 96 hr
Ewell WS et al; Environ Toxicol Chem 5 (9): 831-840 (1986) as cited in the ECOTOX database. Available from, as of July 14, 2016
LC50; Species: Gammarus fasciatus (Scud) juvenile; Conditions: freshwater, static, 20 °C, pH 6.5-8.5, hardness 130 mg/L CaCO3, alkalinity 93 mg/L CaCO3; Concentration: >100000 ug/L for 96 hr
Ewell WS et al; Environ Toxicol Chem 5 (9): 831-840 (1986) as cited in the ECOTOX database. Available from, as of July 14, 2016
LC50; Species: Pimephales promelas (Fathead Minnow) juvenile; Conditions: freshwater, static, 20 °C, pH 6.5-8.5, hardness 130 mg/L CaCO3, alkalinity 93 mg/L CaCO3; Concentration: >100000 ug/L for 96 hr
Ewell WS et al; Environ Toxicol Chem 5 (9): 831-840 (1986) as cited in the ECOTOX database. Available from, as of July 14, 2016
For more Ecotoxicity Values (Complete) data for SODIUM BENZOATE (10 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

13.2.2 Environmental Fate / Exposure Summary

Sodium benzoate's production and use as antimicrobial and preservative in foods, soft drinks, pharmaceuticals, tobacco and cosmetics and its use as a corrosion inhibitor and chemical intermediate may result in its release to the environment through various waste streams. If released to air, an estimated vapor pressure of 2.9X10-12 mm Hg at 25 °C indicates sodium benzoate will exist solely in the particulate phase in the atmosphere. Particulate-phase sodium benzoate adsorbed to atmospheric aerosol will be degraded in the atmosphere by reaction with photochemically-produced hydroxyl radicals; the half-life for this reaction in air is estimated to be 4.3 days. Particulate-phase sodium benzoate will be removed from the atmosphere by wet and dry deposition. If released to soil, sodium benzoate is expected to have very high mobility based upon an estimated Koc of 17. Volatilization from moist soil surfaces is not expected to be an important fate process given sodium benzoate is expected to immediately dissociate and form the anion of benzoic acid in an aqueous environment, and ions do not volatilize. Sodium benzoate is not expected to volatilize from dry soil surfaces based upon its vapor pressure. Biodegradation is expected to be an important environmental fate process in soil and water because a variety of biodegradation screening tests found sodium benzoate to be readily biodegradable. If released into water, sodium benzoate is not expected to adsorb to suspended solids and sediment based upon the estimated Koc. Volatilization from water surfaces is not expected to be an important fate process due to dissociation in water. An estimated BCF of 3 suggests the potential for bioconcentration in aquatic organisms is low. Hydrolysis is not expected to be an important environmental fate process since this compound lacks functional groups that hydrolyze under environmental conditions. Occupational exposure to sodium benzoate may occur through inhalation and dermal contact with this compound at workplaces where sodium benzoate is produced or used. Use data indicate that the general population may be exposed to sodium benzoate via ingestion of food and beverages and dermal contact with consumer products containing sodium benzoate. (SRC)

13.2.3 Artificial Pollution Sources

Sodium benzoate's production and use as antimicrobial and preservative in foods, soft drinks, pharmaceuticals, tobacco and cosmetics and its use as a corrosion inhibitor and chemical intermediate(1-3) may result in its release to the environment through various waste streams(SRC).
(1) O'Neil MJ, ed; The Merck Index. 15th ed., Cambridge, UK: Royal Society of Chemistry, p. 1594 (2013)
(2) Opgrande JL et al; Benzoic Acid. Kirk-Othmer Encyclopedia of Chemical Technology. (1999-2016). New York, NY: John Wiley & Sons. Online Posting Date: May 16, 2003.
(3) Larranaga MD et al; Hawley's Condensed Chemical Dictionary. 16th ed. Hoboken, NJ: John Wiley & Sons, Inc., p.1233 (2016)

13.2.4 Environmental Fate

TERRESTRIAL FATE: Based on a classification scheme(1), an estimated Koc value of17(SRC), determined from a structure estimation method(2), indicates that sodium benzoate is expected to have very high mobility in soil(SRC). Volatilization of sodium benzoate from moist soil surfaces is not expected to be an important fate process(SRC) given sodium benzoate is expected to immediately dissociate and form the anion of benzoic acid in an aqueous environment(3), and ions do not volatilize(SRC). Sodium benzoate is not expected to volatilize from dry soil surfaces(SRC) based upon an estimated vapor pressure of 2.9X10-12 mm Hg at 25 °C(SRC), determined from a fragment constant method(2). A variety of biodegradation screening tests have found sodium benzoate to be readily biodegradable(4,5). For example, CO2 evolution rates of 85-94% were reached after 28 days using an activated sludge inoculum(4).
(1) Swann RL et al; Res Rev 85: 17-28 (1983)
(2) US EPA; Estimation Program Interface (EPI) Suite. Ver. 4.11. Nov, 2012. Available from, as of June 6, 2016: https://www2.epa.gov/tsca-screening-tools
(3) European Commission; Scientific Committee on Consumer Products (SCCP/0891/05, June 21, 2005). Opinion on Benzoic Acid and Sodium Benzoate. Available from, as of June 6, 2016: https://ec.europa.eu/health/ph_risk/committees/04_sccp/docs/sccp_o_015.pdf
(4) ECHA; Search for Chemicals. Sodium Benzoate (CAS 532-32-1) Registered Substances Dossier. European Chemical Agency. Available from, as of June 6, 2015: https://echa.europa.eu/
(5) International Programme on Chemical Safety's Concise International Chemical Assessment Documents. Number 26: Benzoic Acid and Sodium Benzoate (2000). Available from, as of June 6, 2016: https://www.inchem.org/pages/cicads.html
AQUATIC FATE: Based on a classification scheme(1), an estimated Koc value of 17(SRC), determined from a structure estimation method(2), indicates that sodium benzoate is not expected to adsorb to suspended solids and sediment(SRC). Volatilization from water surfaces is not expected(SRC) given sodium benzoate is expected to immediately dissociate and form the anion of benzoic acid in an aqueous environment(3), and ions do not volatilize(SRC). According to a classification scheme(4), an estimated BCF of 3(SRC), from an estimated log Kow of -2.27(2) and a regression-derived equation(2), suggests the potential for bioconcentration in aquatic organisms is low(SRC). A variety of biodegradation screening tests have found sodium benzoate to be readily biodegradable(5,6). For example, CO2 evolution rates of 85-94% were reached after 28 days using an activated sludge inoculum(5). Hydrolysis is not expected to be an important environmental fate process since this compound lacks functional groups that hydrolyze under environmental conditions(7).
(1) Swann RL et al; Res Rev 85: 17-28 (1983)
(2) US EPA; Estimation Program Interface (EPI) Suite. Ver. 4.11. Nov, 2012. Available from, as of June 6, 2016: https://www2.epa.gov/tsca-screening-tools
(3) European Commission; Scientific Committee on Consumer Products (SCCP/0891/05, June 21, 2005). Opinion on Benzoic Acid and Sodium Benzoate. Available from, as of June 6, 2016: https://ec.europa.eu/health/ph_risk/committees/04_sccp/docs/sccp_o_015.pdf
(4) Franke C et al; Chemosphere 29: 1501-14 (1994)
(5) ECHA; Search for Chemicals. Sodium Benzoate (CAS 532-32-1) Registered Substances Dossier. European Chemical Agency. Available from, as of June 6, 2015: https://echa.europa.eu/
(6) International Programme on Chemical Safety's Concise International Chemical Assessment Documents. Number 26: Benzoic Acid and Sodium Benzoate (2000). Available from, as of June 6, 2016: https://www.inchem.org/pages/cicads.html
(7) Lyman WJ et al; Handbook of Chemical Property Estimation Methods. Washington, DC: Amer Chem Soc pp. 7-4, 7-5 (1990)
ATMOSPHERIC FATE: According to a model of gas/particle partitioning of semivolatile organic compounds in the atmosphere(1), sodium benzoate, which has an estimated vapor pressure of 2.9X10-12 mm Hg at 25 °C(SRC), determined from a fragment constant method(2), is expected to exist solely in the particulate phase in the ambient atmosphere. Particulate-phase sodium benzoate that is adsorbed to atmospheric aerosol is degraded in the atmosphere by reaction with photochemically-produced hydroxyl radicals(SRC); the half-life for this reaction in air is estimated to be 4.3 days(SRC), calculated from its rate constant of 3.7X10-12 cu cm/molecule-sec at 25 °C(3). Particulate-phase sodium benzoate may be removed from the air by wet and dry deposition(SRC).
(1) Bidleman TF; Environ Sci Technol 22: 361-367 (1988)
(2) US EPA; Estimation Program Interface (EPI) Suite. Ver. 4.11. Nov, 2012. Available from, as of June 6, 2016: https://www2.epa.gov/tsca-screening-tools
(3) Palm WU et al; Ecotox Environ Safety 41: 36-43 (1998)

13.2.5 Environmental Biodegradation

AEROBIC: Sodium benzoate, present at 100 mg/L, reached >60% of its theoretical BOD in 4 weeks using an activated sludge inoculum at 30 mg/L in the Japanese MITI test which classified the compound as readily biodegradable(1). Using adapted activated sludge and 10, 20, and 50 mg/L test compound, sodium benzoate had CO2 evolution rates of 85-94% after 28 days classifying the compound as readily biodegradable(2). Sodium benzoate was readily biodegradable under aerobic conditions in several standard test systems including a Modified MIT test (84% degradation, 100 mg/L, 10 days), Modified Sturm test (80-90% degrdation, 50 mg/L, 7 days) and a Closed Bottle test (75-111% degradation, 5 mg/L, 30 days)(3). Using OECD Guideline 301B and seawater as test medium or inoculum, sodium benzoate (at 10 mg/L) had degradation of 85-97% over 28 days based on CO2 measurement(4). Sodium benzoate at 3000 mg/L was readily biodegraded in a Zahn-Wellens test using activated sludge with degradation rates of 80-100% over 2-7 days(5). Results of a 20-day BOD study found sodium benzoate to have a biooxidation rate of 78-100% after 5-20 days(6); results of an OECD 301D test found biooxidation rates of 76-85% 5-28 days(6). Sodium benzoate, used as reference material in a die-away using seawater from the Bay of Cadiz (Iberian Peninsula), degraded from an initial 20 mg/L to <1 mg/L after 12 days(7).
(1) NITE; Chemical Risk Information Platform (CHRIP). Biodegradation and Bioconcentration. Tokyo, Japan: Natl Inst Tech Eval. Available from, as of June 6, 2016: https://www.safe.nite.go.jp/english/db.html
(2) ECHA; Search for Chemicals. Sodium Benzoate (CAS 532-32-1) Registered Substances Dossier. European Chemical Agency. Available from, as of June 6, 2015: https://echa.europa.eu/
(3) International Programme on Chemical Safety's Concise International Chemical Assessment Documents. Number 26: Benzoic Acid and Sodium Benzoate (2000). Available from, as of June 6, 2016: https://www.inchem.org/pages/cicads.html
(4) Courtes R et al; Ecotox Environ Safety 31: 142-148 (1995)
(5) Wahaab RA; Bull Environ Contam Toxicol 64: 558-564 (2000)
(6) Waggy GT et al; Environ Toxicol Chem 13: 1277-1280 (1994)
(7) Perales JA et al; Biodegradation 18: 63-70 (2007)
ANAEROBIC: Anaerobic mineralization of sodium benzoate by domestic sewage sludge varied from 50% to 96.5% (measurement of carbon dioxide and methane over 28-61 days) at initial concentrations of 50-90 mg/L(1). In a study using anaerobic sludge from sewage works receiving a mixture of domestic and industrial wastewaters, 93% mineralization of sodium benzoate was observed after 1 week of incubation (measurement of carbon dioxide and methane; initial concentration 50 mg carbon/L)(2).
(1) Birch RR et al; Chemosphere 19: 1527-1550 (1989)
(2) Battersby NS, Wilson V; Applied Environ Microbiol 55: 433-439 (1989)

13.2.6 Environmental Abiotic Degradation

In atmospheric hydroxyl radical reactivity tests of compounds adsorbed on aerosol materials, sodium benzoate had an OH rate constant of approximately 3.7X10-12 cu cm/molecule-sec at 25 °C(1). This corresponds to an atmospheric half-life of about 4.3 days at an atmospheric concentration of 5X10+5 hydroxyl radicals per cu cm(2). Sodium benzoate is expected to immediately dissociate and form the anion of benzoic acid in an aqueous environment(3). Sodium benzoate is not expected to undergo hydrolysis in the environment due to the lack of functional groups that hydrolyze under environmental conditions(4).
(1) Palm WU et al; Ecotox Environ Safety 41: 36-43 (1998)
(2) US EPA; Estimation Program Interface (EPI) Suite. Ver. 4.11. Nov, 2012. Available from, as of June 6, 2016: https://www2.epa.gov/tsca-screening-tools
(3) European Commission; Scientific Committee on Consumer Products (SCCP/0891/05, June 21, 2005). Opinion on Benzoic Acid and Sodium Benzoate. Available from, as of June 6, 2016: https://ec.europa.eu/health/ph_risk/committees/04_sccp/docs/sccp_o_015.pdf
(4) Lyman WJ et al; Handbook of Chemical Property Estimation Methods. Washington, DC: Amer Chem Soc pp. 7-4, 7-5 (1990)

13.2.7 Environmental Bioconcentration

An estimated BCF of 3 was calculated in fish for sodium benzoate(SRC), using an estimated log Kow of -2.27(1) and a regression-derived equation(1). According to a classification scheme(2), this BCF suggests the potential for bioconcentration in aquatic organisms is low(SRC).
(1) US EPA; Estimation Program Interface (EPI) Suite. Ver. 4.11. Nov, 2012. Available from, as of June 6, 2016: https://www2.epa.gov/tsca-screening-tools
(2) Franke C et al; Chemosphere 29: 1501-14 (1994)

13.2.8 Soil Adsorption / Mobility

Using a structure estimation method based on molecular connectivity indices(1), the Koc of sodium benzoate can be estimated to be 17(SRC). According to a classification scheme(2), this estimated Koc value suggests that sodium benzoate is expected to have very high mobility in soil.
(1) US EPA; Estimation Program Interface (EPI) Suite. Ver. 4.11. Nov, 2012. Available from, as of June 6, 2016: https://www2.epa.gov/tsca-screening-tools
(2) Swann RL et al; Res Rev 85: 17-28 (1983)

13.2.9 Volatilization from Water / Soil

Sodium benzoate dissociates in aqueous solution to the sodium cation and the benzoic acid anion and ions do not volatilize; therefore, volatilization from water surfaces or moist soil is not expected to be an important fate process(SRC). Sodium benzoate is not expected to volatilize from dry soil surfaces(SRC) based upon an estimated vapor pressure of 2.9X10-12 mm Hg(SRC), determined from a fragment constant method(1).
(1) US EPA; Estimation Program Interface (EPI) Suite. Ver. 4.11. Nov, 2012. Available from, as of June 6, 2016: https://www2.epa.gov/tsca-screening-tools

13.2.10 Food Survey Values

Sodium benzoate is added directly to human food(1). It is used as a preservative in such foods as sauces, pickles, cider, fruit juices, wine coolers, syrups and concentrates, mincemeat and other acidic pie fillings, margarine, egg powder, fish (as a brine dip component), bottled carbonated beverages, and fruit preserves, jams, and jellies(1). The popularity of diet soft drinks has led to an increased demand(1).
(1) Opgrande JL et al; Benzoic Acid. Kirk-Othmer Encyclopedia of Chemical Technology. (1999-2016). New York, NY: John Wiley & Sons. Online Posting Date: May 16, 2003.

13.2.11 Other Environmental Concentrations

Sodium benzoate has been identified in tobacco collected from cigaretts(1).
(1) Rodgman A, Perfetti TA; The Chemical Components of Tobacco and Tobacco Smoke. 2nd ed., Boca Raton, FL: CRC Press (Taylor & Francis Group), p. 1753 (2013)

13.2.12 Probable Routes of Human Exposure

According to the 2012 TSCA Inventory Update Reporting data, 17 reporting facilities estimate the number of persons reasonably likely to be exposed during the manufacturing, processing, or use of sodium benzoate (CAS 532-32-1) in the United States may be as low as <10 workers and as high as 100-499 workers per plant; the data may be greatly underestimated due to confidential business information (CBI) or unknown values(1).
(1) US EPA; Chemical Data Reporting (CDR). Non-confidential 2012 Chemical Data Reporting information on chemical production and use in the United States. Available from, as of June 6, 2016: https://java.epa.gov/oppt_chemical_search/
Occupational exposure to sodium benzoate may occur through inhalation and dermal contact with this compound at workplaces where sodium benzoate is produced or used. Use data indicate that the general population may be exposed to sodium benzoate via ingestion of food and beverages and dermal contact with consumer products containing sodium benzoate. (SRC)

14 Associated Disorders and Diseases

Associated Occupational Diseases with Exposure to the Compound
Contact urticaria [Category: Skin Disease]

15 Literature

15.1 Consolidated References

15.2 NLM Curated PubMed Citations

15.3 Springer Nature References

15.4 Thieme References

15.5 Wiley References

15.6 Chemical Co-Occurrences in Literature

15.7 Chemical-Gene Co-Occurrences in Literature

15.8 Chemical-Disease Co-Occurrences in Literature

16 Patents

16.1 Depositor-Supplied Patent Identifiers

16.2 WIPO PATENTSCOPE

16.3 Chemical Co-Occurrences in Patents

16.4 Chemical-Disease Co-Occurrences in Patents

16.5 Chemical-Gene Co-Occurrences in Patents

17 Interactions and Pathways

17.1 Chemical-Target Interactions

18 Biological Test Results

18.1 BioAssay Results

19 Taxonomy

20 Classification

20.1 MeSH Tree

20.2 NCI Thesaurus Tree

20.3 ChEBI Ontology

20.4 KEGG: Drug

20.5 KEGG: ATC

20.6 KEGG: JP15

20.7 KEGG: Risk Category of Japanese OTC Drugs

20.8 WHO ATC Classification System

20.9 EPA Safer Choice

20.10 ChemIDplus

20.11 ChEMBL Target Tree

20.12 UN GHS Classification

20.13 EPA CPDat Classification

20.14 NORMAN Suspect List Exchange Classification

20.15 EPA DSSTox Classification

20.16 Consumer Product Information Database Classification

20.17 EPA TSCA and CDR Classification

20.18 EPA Substance Registry Services Tree

20.19 MolGenie Organic Chemistry Ontology

21 Information Sources

  1. Australian Industrial Chemicals Introduction Scheme (AICIS)
  2. ChemIDplus
    ChemIDplus Chemical Information Classification
    https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/source/ChemIDplus
  3. EPA Chemical Data Reporting (CDR)
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    https://www.epa.gov/web-policies-and-procedures/epa-disclaimers#copyright
    Benzoic acid, sodium salt (1:1)
    https://www.epa.gov/chemical-data-reporting
  4. EPA Chemicals under the TSCA
    Benzoic acid, sodium salt (1:1)
    https://www.epa.gov/chemicals-under-tsca
    EPA TSCA Classification
    https://www.epa.gov/tsca-inventory
  5. EPA DSSTox
    CompTox Chemicals Dashboard Chemical Lists
    https://comptox.epa.gov/dashboard/chemical-lists/
  6. European Chemicals Agency (ECHA)
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    https://echa.europa.eu/web/guest/legal-notice
  7. FDA Global Substance Registration System (GSRS)
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    https://www.fda.gov/about-fda/about-website/website-policies#linking
  8. Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
  9. ILO-WHO International Chemical Safety Cards (ICSCs)
  10. International Fragrance Association (IFRA)
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    https://ifrafragrance.org/links/copyright
  11. New Zealand Environmental Protection Authority (EPA)
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    https://www.epa.govt.nz/about-this-site/general-copyright-statement/
  12. ChEBI
  13. Open Targets
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    https://platform-docs.opentargets.org/licence
  14. ChEMBL
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    http://www.ebi.ac.uk/Information/termsofuse.html
  15. ClinicalTrials.gov
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    https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/about-site/terms-conditions#Use
  16. Comparative Toxicogenomics Database (CTD)
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    http://ctdbase.org/about/legal.jsp
  17. Haz-Map, Information on Hazardous Chemicals and Occupational Diseases
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    https://haz-map.com/About
  18. Therapeutic Target Database (TTD)
  19. Consumer Product Information Database (CPID)
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    https://www.whatsinproducts.com/contents/view/1/6
    Consumer Products Category Classification
    https://www.whatsinproducts.com/
  20. Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR)
  21. EPA Chemical and Products Database (CPDat)
  22. NORMAN Suspect List Exchange
    LICENSE
    Data: CC-BY 4.0; Code (hosted by ECI, LCSB): Artistic-2.0
    https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
    Sodium Benzoate
    NORMAN Suspect List Exchange Classification
    https://www.norman-network.com/nds/SLE/
  23. DailyMed
  24. Drugs@FDA
    LICENSE
    Unless otherwise noted, the contents of the FDA website (www.fda.gov), both text and graphics, are not copyrighted. They are in the public domain and may be republished, reprinted and otherwise used freely by anyone without the need to obtain permission from FDA. Credit to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration as the source is appreciated but not required.
    https://www.fda.gov/about-fda/about-website/website-policies#linking
  25. EU Food Improvement Agents
  26. EPA Safer Choice
    EPA Safer Chemical Ingredients Classification
    https://www.epa.gov/saferchoice
  27. FDA Orange Book
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    https://www.fda.gov/about-fda/about-website/website-policies#linking
  28. Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA)
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    https://www.who.int/about/policies/publishing/copyright
  29. EU Clinical Trials Register
  30. NITE-CMC
    Sodium benzoate; Benzoic acid, sodium salt - FY2022 (New/original classication)
    https://www.chem-info.nite.go.jp/chem/english/ghs/22-jniosh-0045e.html
  31. FDA Substances Added to Food
    LICENSE
    Unless otherwise noted, the contents of the FDA website (www.fda.gov), both text and graphics, are not copyrighted. They are in the public domain and may be republished, reprinted and otherwise used freely by anyone without the need to obtain permission from FDA. Credit to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration as the source is appreciated but not required.
    https://www.fda.gov/about-fda/about-website/website-policies#linking
  32. Flavor and Extract Manufacturers Association (FEMA)
  33. Human Metabolome Database (HMDB)
    LICENSE
    HMDB is offered to the public as a freely available resource. Use and re-distribution of the data, in whole or in part, for commercial purposes requires explicit permission of the authors and explicit acknowledgment of the source material (HMDB) and the original publication (see the HMDB citing page). We ask that users who download significant portions of the database cite the HMDB paper in any resulting publications.
    http://www.hmdb.ca/citing
  34. Japan Chemical Substance Dictionary (Nikkaji)
  35. KEGG
    LICENSE
    Academic users may freely use the KEGG website. Non-academic use of KEGG generally requires a commercial license
    https://www.kegg.jp/kegg/legal.html
    Therapeutic category of drugs in Japan
    http://www.genome.jp/kegg-bin/get_htext?br08301.keg
    Anatomical Therapeutic Chemical (ATC) classification
    http://www.genome.jp/kegg-bin/get_htext?br08303.keg
    Drugs listed in the Japanese Pharmacopoeia
    http://www.genome.jp/kegg-bin/get_htext?br08311.keg
    Risk category of Japanese OTC drugs
    http://www.genome.jp/kegg-bin/get_htext?br08312.keg
  36. Metabolomics Workbench
  37. National Drug Code (NDC) Directory
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    https://www.fda.gov/about-fda/about-website/website-policies#linking
  38. Natural Product Activity and Species Source (NPASS)
  39. NCI Thesaurus (NCIt)
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    https://www.cancer.gov/policies/copyright-reuse
  40. NIPH Clinical Trials Search of Japan
  41. NLM RxNorm Terminology
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    https://www.nlm.nih.gov/research/umls/rxnorm/docs/termsofservice.html
  42. PharmGKB
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    https://www.pharmgkb.org/page/policies
  43. SpectraBase
  44. Springer Nature
  45. Thieme Chemistry
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    https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/
  46. WHO Anatomical Therapeutic Chemical (ATC) Classification
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  47. Wikidata
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  49. Wiley
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  51. PubChem
  52. GHS Classification (UNECE)
  53. EPA Substance Registry Services
  54. MolGenie
    MolGenie Organic Chemistry Ontology
    https://github.com/MolGenie/ontology/
  55. PATENTSCOPE (WIPO)
CONTENTS