"Is Sodium Benzoate Harmful to the Skin?"

Sodium benzoate is an acid-base additive that has no bactericidal or antibacterial effects in alkaline substances. However, as an artificial additive, excessive consumption of sodium benzoate can harm the body. So, what are the potential harms of sodium benzoate to the body?

Sodium benzoate is the acetate of benzoic acid, and its basic mechanism of action involves disrupting the permeability of microbial cell membranes, inhibiting the adsorption of carbohydrates, and reducing enzyme activity. When sodium benzoate reacts with gastric acid in the human body, it converts into benzoic acid. Benzoic acid has certain toxic effects, and long-term consumption can lead to chronic benzene poisoning. Symptoms of chronic benzene poisoning include neurosis, such as headaches, dizziness, memory loss, insomnia, and fatigue. Additionally, patients may experience leukopenia, and in severe cases, aplastic anemia may occur.

Sodium benzoate + Vitamin C = Carcinogenic Substance: In daily life, some unscrupulous manufacturers illegally add sodium benzoate to extend the shelf life of products without addressing spoilage or deterioration issues. The human body naturally contains a certain amount of vitamin C, and our daily diets, including vegetables, fruits, and other foods, are also rich in vitamin C. However, the combination of added sodium benzoate and vitamin C can produce benzene, which increases the risk of cancer. To better prevent such harm, it is essential to check whether soy sauce, vinegar, and other condiments containing vitamin C vegetables and fruits also contain sodium benzoate as an additive, and to minimize the consumption of foods containing sodium benzoate. Nevertheless, there is no need to panic about small amounts of sodium benzoate in food or beverages, as it is unlikely to cause cancer in such quantities.