Sodium benzoate: Definition, chemical formula, utilities and danger

Discussion sodium benzoate is limited in terms of sodium benzoate, sodium benzoate chemical formula, the use of sodium benzoate and sodium benzoate danger. It seems we are hard to be separated from the chemicals on this one. Therefore, we should know a lot about the ins and outs of sodium benzoate.

Definition of Sodium Benzoate

Sodium benzoate is the sodium salt is used as a food preservative. But actually there is a chemical that occurs naturally in some foods. These chemicals are often found in processed foods or beverages such as soda, fruit juice, vinegar, medicines, cosmetics, dyes or the industry. These chemicals are often added to some foods, such as sauces to extend the shelf life. Sodium benzoate can also be used to stop the fermentation process in drinks, such as wine. By understanding the ins and outs of these chemicals allow you to be able to decide when to use these chemicals and when not to use it. Because in addition to the benefits offered, there are also side effects.

Chemical formula Sodium Benzoate:

Usefulness Sodium Benzoate

Sodium benzoate can be found in a variety of substances, both naturally and as a chemical additive.

1. Food

Many fruits such as berries, plums, apples or cranberries naturally contain sodium benzoate with a relatively low level. However, most people who consumed these chemicals because of the use of preservatives in processed foods. About 75 percent of people can taste bitter, salty, sodium benzoate is added to the diet. Sometimes these chemicals tastes sweet. Foods most often contain chemicals are soft drinks. Although sodium benzoate is not considered toxic and no adverse health effects, but the FDA currently prohibits sodium benzoate to be added to the food. The maximum allowed is 0.1 percent.

2. Other

In addition to acting as a food preservative, these chemicals are also used to extend the shelf life of toothpaste, deodorant, mouthwash, shampoo, lotions, ointments, syrups or pills. These chemicals are used to prevent the growth of bacteria or an inhibitor that can prevent metal corrosion. Metal cans containing cleaners or liquid food to be coated sodium benzoate so that the metal is not subject to corrosion. Machines such as the vehicle's engine is also covered by these chemicals for the same reason.

Dangers of Sodium Benzoate

Health Protection Branch of Canada (Health Protection Branch of Canada) and the administration of food and drugs - drugs (the Food and Drug Administration) states that sodium benzoate is safe to consume in small doses, but not in combination with ascorbic acid, otherwise known as citric acid or vitamin C, as this will produce a carcinogenic substance, namely benzene.

This carcinogenic substances believed to cause the cell death, damage to mitochondria in cells, damage DNA, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) or leukemia. The study results also showed that the food coloring material combines with sodium benzoate can cause children to become hyperactive. The effects caused by consuming soda, which its benzene content results in higher than other food or beverages.

Regulation of the Use of Sodium Benzoate in Foods

During the 2005 study, the FDA investigated 200 soft drinks and similar beverages to determine its level of benzene. Most meet FDA requirements and found only 10 drinks with benzene levels higher than recommended.

Because consumers pay attention to the side effects of these chemicals, beverage manufacturers in the United States are no longer using coloring materials in its products. Similar efforts are also applicable to the 'Foods Standards Agency Board' in the UK began in 2009.

Reduce Consumption of Sodium Benzoate

If you are concerned with the health of Sodium Benzoate yourself this, it is advisable to read the labels of food or drink with caution. Note any product containing benzoic acid, benzene or benzoate, and give more attention to the content of citric acid compounds, ascorbic acid and vitamin C. Limiting the intake of processed fruit juice (ie processed fruit juice instead of fruit juice naturally) or soft drinks can also help to reduce this risk, especially for children who may be susceptible to ADHD.

From the above explanation it is stated that sodium benzoate is safe for consumption in low levels unless combined with ascorbic acid or dyes. Because the combination will produce benzene compounds that are carcinogenic.