What foods contain E211 and how to identify this additive?

January 10, 2026 •

3 min read

Sodium benzoate, also known by the code E211, is a widely used food preservative in acidic products to inhibit the growth of yeast, mold, and bacteria. Numerous processed and packaged items contain E211, from soft drinks and fruit juices to a variety of sauces and condiments.

Quick Summary

E211, or sodium benzoate, is added to various acidic packaged foods like carbonated drinks, juices, and salad dressings to prevent microbial spoilage. It's also found naturally in trace amounts in certain berries, fruits, and spices. Consumers can find it listed on ingredient labels.

Key Points

Prevalent Preservative: E211 is the food code for sodium benzoate, an antimicrobial preservative commonly found in acidic foods.
Commonly Found in Beverages: Soft drinks, fruit juices, and flavored waters are among the most frequent sources of added E211.
Preserves and Condiments: Many jams, pickles, salad dressings, ketchup, and sauces also use E211 to extend their shelf life.
Natural Sources: While E211 is synthetic, benzoic acid (its parent compound) is naturally present in trace amounts in cranberries, plums, cinnamon, and some fermented dairy products.
Check the Label: The best way to identify E211 is to read the ingredient list for "sodium benzoate" or the code "E211".
Effective in Acidic Products: Sodium benzoate is most effective as a preservative in products with a low pH, such as those containing citric or acetic acid.
Consider the 'E' Code: If you are in a region that uses the 'E' number system (like Europe), E211 is the specific code to look for.

Understanding E211: The Preservative Sodium Benzoate

E211 is the internationally recognized code for sodium benzoate, the sodium salt of benzoic acid. This white, crystalline powder is highly soluble in water, making it a popular choice for large-scale food preservation. It functions most effectively in acidic environments, where it converts into benzoic acid, which has potent antimicrobial properties. This process makes E211 a crucial ingredient for extending the shelf life of many commercially produced food items.

Common Processed Foods with Added E211

The list of products containing added E211 is extensive, covering many aisles of a typical grocery store. Because it works best at a low pH, it is most prevalent in products that are already acidic.

Beverages and Juices

Carbonated soft drinks and packaged fruit juices are among the most common sources of added E211. The preservative helps maintain flavor and freshness while preventing the growth of yeast and mold that can thrive in these sugary, acidic liquids.

Carbonated soft drinks (many brands of cola, lemon-lime, and flavored sodas)
Fruit juices and juice concentrates
Energy drinks
Flavored water
Certain low-sugar or low-alcohol beverages

Condiments and Sauces

To prevent spoilage, manufacturers often add E211 to a variety of sauces and dressings. The acidic nature of these products provides the perfect environment for the preservative to work.

Salad dressings
Mayonnaise
Ketchup and tomato paste
Soy sauce
Barbecue sauce and sweet chili sauce

Pickles and Preserves

Preserved and canned products that use vinegar or fruit acids rely on preservatives like E211 to stay fresh for extended periods.

Pickled vegetables and olives
Jams, jellies, and marmalades (especially lower-sugar versions)
Fruit purees and pulp

Other Packaged Goods

E211 can also be found in other products where a preservative is needed to prevent microbial growth.

Margarine
Certain cheese-based desserts
Some fish products and marinades
Fruit-flavored yogurt

Foods with Naturally Occurring Benzoic Acid

While E211 is synthetically produced, it is important to note that benzoic acid, the compound it is derived from, occurs naturally in small concentrations in some foods. These foods do not have E211 added, but contain the natural precursor.

Berries and Fruits

Cranberries
Bilberries
Plums
Apples

Spices and Herbs

Cinnamon
Cloves

Other Natural Sources

Mushrooms
Some dairy products (due to bacterial fermentation)

How to Identify E211 on Product Labels

To determine if a packaged food item contains E211, consumers should look for specific terms on the ingredient list. The most common label is "sodium benzoate," but the food code E211 is also used, particularly in Europe. Reading ingredient labels is the most reliable way to monitor intake of this additive. Processed foods, even those that seem healthy, can contain E211, so diligence is key. For more information on food additives and labeling, you can consult reliable sources like the FDA or other regulatory bodies.

Comparison: Added E211 vs. Naturally Occurring Benzoic Acid


Aspect	Added E211	Naturally Occurring Benzoic Acid
Source	Synthetically produced from benzoic acid and sodium hydroxide.	Naturally present in various plants and as a byproduct of bacterial fermentation.
Purpose	Used as a preservative to extend shelf life and prevent microbial growth.	Part of the food's natural chemical composition, not added for preservation.
Concentration	Controlled and regulated, typically used at a concentration of less than 0.1%.	Typically found in trace, low concentrations, dependent on the food source.
Example Foods	Soft drinks, sauces, pickles, jams.	Cranberries, plums, cinnamon, mushrooms.

Conclusion: Making Informed Food Choices

E211, or sodium benzoate, is a common preservative found in a wide variety of processed and packaged acidic foods, from carbonated drinks and juices to condiments and preserves. While the precursor compound, benzoic acid, occurs naturally in low levels in some foods like cranberries and cinnamon, E211 is a synthetic additive used to extend shelf life. Consumers who wish to monitor or reduce their intake of this preservative can do so by carefully reading product labels. Opting for fresh, unprocessed foods and seeking products explicitly labeled as preservative-free offers the clearest path to avoiding added E211 and making more informed choices about diet. Understanding the contents of your food is the first step toward greater control over what you consume.

Frequently Asked Questions

E211 is the food additive code for sodium benzoate, a preservative used to inhibit the growth of bacteria, yeast, and mold, especially in acidic foods and drinks.

E211 is commonly found in a wide variety of acidic beverages, including carbonated soft drinks, fruit juices, energy drinks, and flavored waters.

No, E211 (sodium benzoate) is a synthetically produced chemical. However, its parent compound, benzoic acid, is found naturally in some fruits and spices like cranberries and cinnamon.

It is used to preserve foods by preventing the growth of spoilage-causing microorganisms. This extends the product's shelf life, maintains its freshness, and helps protect its flavor and texture.

Generally, no. Organic standards prohibit the use of most synthetic preservatives like E211. However, it is essential to check the specific product's label, as regulations can vary.

To avoid E211, you should prioritize fresh, whole, and unprocessed foods. When buying packaged items, always check the ingredient list for "sodium benzoate" or the code "E211".

Benzoic acid is a naturally occurring compound, while E211 is the synthesized salt form, sodium benzoate. E211 is used because it dissolves more easily in water, making it a better preservative for liquids and acidic foods.