Sodium Benzoate E211 is the sodium salt of benzoic acid, widely used as a food preservative for its strong antimicrobial properties. It appears as a white, crystalline powder or granule that is odorless and slightly sweet, with excellent water solubility. Sodium Benzoate is highly effective in acidic environments (pH below 4.5), where it inhibits the growth of mold, yeast, and some bacteria.
With a melting point of about 300°C (decomposes), and a molecular formula of C₇H₅NaO₂, Sodium Benzoate is chemically stable, non-volatile, and remains active during thermal processing. These properties make it suitable for various formulations in food, beverage, cosmetics, pharmaceutical, and industrial products.