Disclaimer: This database provides factual regulatory information compiled from official government sources. It does not constitute medical, nutritional, or safety advice. Regulatory status varies by country and may change. Always refer to your local regulatory authority for the most current information.
Regulatory History: Sodium Benzoate
E211 — Complete timeline of regulatory events
About This Timeline
This page documents the regulatory history of Sodium Benzoate (E211), including approvals, bans, safety evaluations, and classification changes by regulatory agencies worldwide.
Data source: Official regulatory documents, scientific publications, and agency announcements. All events are documented with source agencies and dates.
Complete Timeline
8 eventsUSDA Bureau of Chemistry studied safety of sodium benzoate in foods, one of the earliest food additive evaluations.
Sodium benzoate affirmed as GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe) under FDA Food Additives Amendment.
Research identified that sodium benzoate can react with ascorbic acid (vitamin C) in beverages to form benzene, a known carcinogen.
UK Food Standards Agency found elevated benzene levels in some soft drinks, prompting industry reformulations.
FDA tested 100 soft drinks and found low benzene levels in most products. Manufacturers reformulated products with higher levels.
EFSA reviewed benzene formation in beverages, concluded risk is very low when products are properly formulated and stored.
EFSA re-evaluated benzoic acid and benzoates (E210-E213), established group ADI of 5 mg/kg bw/day.
Sodium benzoate remains approved worldwide. Industry guidelines recommend avoiding combination with ascorbic acid or controlling pH and storage to minimize benzene formation.
Important Notes
- This timeline is for informational purposes only and does not constitute safety advice.
- Regulatory decisions reflect the state of scientific knowledge at the time they were made.
- Current regulations may differ from historical events shown. Always consult official sources for up-to-date information.
- An approval in one country does not imply approval in others. Regulatory standards vary by jurisdiction.