Benzoic acid
Organic acid preservative used as antimicrobial agent. E210. Converted to sodium benzoate in solution. EFSA review identified concerns about ADI exceedance in some population groups. Reacts with Vitamin C to form benzene (a carcinogen).
How it works (mechanism of action)
Acts on cellular signalling pathways relevant to the documented clinical indications. Contains bioactive compounds with enzyme-modulating, receptor-binding, or antioxidant properties studied in peer-reviewed literature.
BENZENE FORMATION: benzoic acid/sodium benzoate + ascorbic acid/Vitamin C → benzene (IARC Group 1 carcinogen). Do not combine in same formulation. Hyperactivity: Southampton study included sodium benzoate as Southampton Six component. ADI: 5mg/kg/day (EFSA). Avoid in aspirin-sensitive individuals (salicylate cross-reactivity). Not for products also containing Vitamin C.