Calcium benzoate
Benzoate preservative; same benzene/vitamin C concern.
- Category
- Preservatives
- Acceptable daily intake
- 5 mg/kg body weight/day (EFSA)
- Vegan
- Yes
- Vegetarian
- Yes
What it is
Calcium benzoate (E213) is a synthetic preservative. It is highly soluble and works best in acidic environments to stop yeast and mould growth.
How it is used in food
Provides an alternative calcium-based preservative.
Commonly found in- Diet sodas and fruit juices
- Syrups and cordials
- Pickles
Health and safety
Same benzene-formation caution with vitamin C.
Like all benzoates (including E211), the primary hazard is the potential for benzene formation.
Can form benzene in vitamin C drinks
In acidic drinks that also contain ascorbic acid, benzoates can break down under heat or light to form benzene, a Group 1 carcinogen. FDA testing found most beverages at or below the 5 ppb drinking-water limit and the reaction is now designed around, so the exposure risk is low — but it is the reason to prefer sorbates in vitamin C products.
Questions and Answers on the Occurrence of Benzene in Soft Drinks and Other Beverages
Works only in acidic foods, sharing the family's traits.
Regulatory status
| Region | Status | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Australia & New Zealand FSANZ |
Permitted | Permitted. |
| European Union EFSA / European Commission |
Permitted | Authorised for food use under EU regulations (Annex II). |
| United States FDA (Food and Drug Administration) |
Not approved | No direct food use. 21 CFR 184 affirms benzoic acid and sodium benzoate; the only regulation citing calcium benzoate covers polymer stabilisers for food packaging (178.2010). |
Identification on labels
- E-number
- E213
Alternatives to this additive
- E202: Potassium sorbate — Does not form benzene and is widely considered much safer.
How it is made
Produced industrially through the oxidation of toluene (a petrochemical) or by neutralizing benzoic acid.
- Synthesis — Toluene is oxidized to benzoic acid, which is then neutralized if forming a salt.
Worth knowing
Rarely used compared to other benzoates.
Conclusion
The concern with benzoates is a specific reaction, not the preservative itself: combined with vitamin C in an acidic drink and left in heat or light, they can form benzene, a Group 1 carcinogen. FDA's survey found most beverages at or below the 5 ppb drinking-water limit, and formulators now avoid the combination — but it is why sorbates are preferred in vitamin C products.
References
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Open the appEntry last reviewed 2026-07-28.
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