Products
Sodium benzoate is used as an excipient in pharmaceuticals, mainly in liquid dosage forms. It is also used in food and cosmetics.
Structure and properties
Sodium benzoate (C7H5NaO2, Mr = 144.1 g/mol) exists as a white, weakly hygroscopic, crystalline or granular powder or as a leaflet and is readily soluble in water. It is the sodium salt of benzoic acid. Sodium benzoate is prepared with sodium hydroxide and benzoic acid:
Effects
Sodium benzoate has antimicrobial properties against fungi and bacteria.
Indications for use
As a preservative.