Benzoic acid

Benzoic acid (benzenecarboxylic acid), also occurs naturally in some fruits.

Preservative in acidic beverages, pickles, and sauces.

Conjugated with glycine and excreted as hippuric acid. Naturally present in cranberries and other foods.

May exacerbate asthma or urticaria in sensitive individuals. Benzene formation possible with ascorbic acid under specific conditions (heat/light) — rare in properly stored products.

Permitted only in food categories and pH conditions defined in EU Annex II.

Benzoic acid is GRAS in the U.S. for food use and occurs naturally in some fruits. It is effective as a preservative primarily in acidic products such as soft drinks and pickles. The U.S. does not replicate the EU's food-category-by-category Annex II limits but relies on GMP under GRAS.

Typically up to 150–2000 mg/kg depending on food category (Annex II Part E).

0–5 mg/kg body weight per day (JECFA, as benzoic acid).