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E210PreservativeModerate concern
Benzoic Acid
In plain words
The short version
The parent acid of sodium benzoate — naturally occurring in cranberries, the same preservative mechanism.
Why we flag it amber
A common preservative (benzoic acid). It's approved, but combined with vitamin C it can form tiny amounts of benzene (a carcinogen), and it can cause pseudo-allergic reactions in sensitive people. Those caveats are why we flag it.
Safety profile
ADI of 5 mg/kg body weight (combined with benzoate salts). In the presence of ascorbic acid and heat or light, can form trace benzene — the same concern as E211. The monitoring and reformulation history is shared with sodium benzoate.
The detail
Educational information only. Not medical or dietary advice.