Potassium Benzoate
Preservatives
Potentially Harmful
Details
Definition
A preservative added to food to extend shelf life by preventing the growth of bacteria, yeast, and mold. It is is a white, odorless powder obtained by combining benzoic acid and potassium salt under heat. Commonly found in sodas, sweets, condiments, and processed meats or fish.
AKAs
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Health Impact
When combined with vitamin C, light, or heat, it can form benzene, a strong carcinogen. Foods that contain benzene may also cause cause hives or other severe allergic reactions, especially in people prone to eczema, itchy skin, or a chronically stuffy or runny nose.
Sources
Questions and Answers on the Occurrence of Benzene in Soft Drinks and Other Beverages
https://www.fda.gov/food/chemicals/questions-and-answers-occurrence-benzene-soft-drinks-and-other-beveragesBenzoic acid and its derivatives as naturally occurring compounds in foods and as additives: Uses, exposure, and controversy
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26587821/Benzene as a Chemical Hazard in Processed Foods
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4745501/Sensitivity to food additives, vaso-active amines and salicylates: a review of the evidence
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4604636/European Food Safety Authority
https://www.efsa.europa.eu/en/efsajournal/pub/4433Reading ingredients made easy. For quicker, healthier decisions.
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