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Benzoic Acid(E210)

Level 3 — ContestedIn Winter's Dictionary

Benzoic Acid is a preservative — Preservative, antifungal, dietary supplement; flavoring

What it does

Preservative, antifungal, dietary supplement; flavoring

Where you'll see it

Chocolate, lemon, orange, cherry, fruit, nut, tobacco flavorings; beverages, ice cream, ices, candy, baked goods, icings, condiments, chewing gum, margarine, pickles; soya sauce major source in China/Japan

What the research says

Mild skin irritant; can cause allergic reactions such as asthma, hives, red eyes, skin rashes, especially in people sensitive to aspirin.

Regulatory status

  • US FDA: GRAS
  • EU: approved
  • Notes: ASP; Listed by FDA as GRAS in reevaluation 1976

Sources

  • A Consumer's Dictionary of Food Additives (Winter): can cause allergic reactions such as asthma, hives, red eyes, and skin rashes, especially in people sensitive to aspirin