Sodium Benzoate Sodium Benzoate (C7H5NaO2) is a pivotal preservative triumphantly utilized in the realms of food, beverage, and pharmaceutical sectors. As the sodium salt of benzoic acid, it presents itself as a pristine white, odorless powder that boasts exceptional water solubility. Its primary role is to halt the growth of microorganisms like bacteria, yeasts, and molds, thereby magnificently prolonging the shelf life of various products.
Sodium benzoate is characterized by a benzene ring adjoined with a carboxylate group, culminating in the formation of the sodium salt of benzoic acid.
In stark contrast to its counterpart, benzoic acid, which is constrained by limited water solubility, sodium benzoate dissolves effortlessly, streamlining its integration into aqueous solutions.
Sodium benzoate performs optimally in highly acidic ambiances with pH values ranging from 2.5 to 4.0. Beyond this range, it reverts to benzoic acid, which, although less soluble, becomes a powerhouse preservative in its undissociated state.