What is Benzoate?
Like benzene and everything else in the universe, benzoate is a molecule. It is a salt, not unlike sodium chloride (table salt) and can exist in a mixture with sodium or potassium. The acidic form is called benzoic acid, but is really the same molecule with an added hydrogen ion. Its molecular structure is C6H5COO-, meaning it consists of 7 carbon atoms, 5 hydrogen atoms, and 2 oxygen atoms. It is important in beverage manufacturing because in acidic form it acts as a preservative. Also known as E211 the chemical kills fungi, yeast, and bacteria, and is thereby useful to keep the soda free of infectious contaminants. Historically and traditionally, the chemical was believed to present no human health risk, however, recent studies suggest the chemical itself may indeed be linked to human disease, and may combine with other chemicals to produce even more dangerous substances.
