2024 Author: Jasmine Walkman | [email protected]. Last modified: 2023-12-16 08:29
Sodium benzoate is a salt of benzoic acid. Defined as an aromatic compound. It is extremely well known as a preservative, as the other name by which it is known is E211. Years ago it was widely used in the food industry, but in the modern world its use is limited due to some health considerations.
Sodium benzoate is a white, crystalline substance that has a sweet taste and is soluble in water. It is resistant to boiling and its melting temperature is three hundred degrees Celsius. Sodium benzoate can be obtained chemically, but is naturally found in raisins and blueberries. There is evidence that it is also found in cinnamon and cloves.
Use of sodium benzoate
Sodium benzoate is valuable especially in the food industry because of its ability to preserve the commercial and appetizing appearance of food and to protect them from bacteria, yeast and mold. The preservative is used in cakes such as cakes, pastries, cheesecakes, pies, eclairs, candies, cakes and many other delicacies.
We can also find it in some sauces / ketchup, mayonnaise, mustard /, caviar, fruit juices, dressings. Do not be surprised if you see it also in pickles and other canned food, olives, spice mixtures, products containing mayonnaise. It is present in processed meats and fish, canned fish, appetizers of various origins, as well as in some purees. It is also found in certain dairy products.
This, of course, does not completely exhaust its use. The substance has also been used in the manufacture of some drugs. It is also used in cosmetic products. It is also used in the manufacture of dyes, adhesives and other goods. It is no secret that in some cases it is used for more successful storage of tobacco.
Benefits of sodium benzoate
As you already know, sodium benzoate is used as a preservative as it helps to preserve the freshness of the products. It prevents the development of fungi in the canned product.
There is evidence that it acts as an antiseptic and can improve the taste of some tasteless foods. It also has antimicrobial action. However, it should be noted that it is active in weakly acidic environments.
At a glance at the packaging of some foods, we know that E211 can be combined with other preservatives and colors. Which is also a valuable feature of the product from the point of view of manufacturers. It is because of all this that they find numerous benefits from its use.
Permitted daily dose of sodium benzoate
In some parts of the world, the use of this substance in the manufacture of foodstuffs is permitted due to its pronounced antiseptic and antifungal properties, and the maximum permissible amount should not exceed 0.25%. At the same time, the daily consumption should not exceed 5 mg / kg. If used unwisely, it can lead to allergic reactions and some serious health conditions.
Some hosts use the ingredient in making homemade pickles. In such cases, however, the instructions on its packaging must be read strictly so that no problems follow. Usually one gram of the substance, which is available in pharmacies, must be dissolved in a liter of water and only then put in the appropriate can.
Harm from sodium benzoate
Although food manufacturers rely heavily on this preservative, scientists are also revealing its negative features. E211 is associated not only with allergic reactions but also with cancer.
Another unpleasant detail about sodium benzoate is that it should not be used in conjunction with vitamin C, as scientists believe it can lead to the formation of a dangerous substance.
In the modern world, E211 is increasingly being studied. The reason is that many point to it as a carcinogen that adversely affects our DNA. It is also said to disrupt the nervous system and exacerbate disease complaints. British scientist Prof. Peter Piper has linked E211 to Parkinson's disease and cirrhosis of the liver.
According to experts, it is contraindicated for people with more sensitive skin and patients suffering from asthma. It is also not recommended for babies and young children. It is good for pregnant women and nursing mothers to refrain from eating foods that contain it. Experts point out that the substance adversely affects adolescents and changes their behavior and mental development.
The damage from sodium benzoate more and more will be explored. The fact is, however, that while this preservative is present in much of Kupeshki's food, it is extremely difficult to avoid.
However, in order to reduce its impact on our body, we can at least limit the consumption of canned goods. Carefully review not only the labels of the foods you plan to buy, but also the cosmetics. At least from time to time pamper yourself with natural products devoid of harmful substances.
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