Origin
For use in the food industry, however, E 210 is artificially produced. In a chemical process, benzoic acid is synthesized from toluene, resulting in an odorless solid substance with a characteristic smell.
Usage
Benzoic acid is used among other things for spirits, jams, margarine, ketchup, mustard, mayonnaise, and sausages. But also fish canned goods, chewing gum, and candied or glazed fruits contain E 210. Especially frequently, E 210 is used in pickled foods because it can particularly well prevent the growth of mold and bacteria there. Benzoic acid is also used to preserve cosmetics or medicinal ointments.
Risks
Although benzoic acid is a naturally occurring substance, E 210 often causes allergic reactions or allergy-like symptoms. As a preservative, it occurs in foods at higher concentrations than in nature. Thus, benzoic acid can trigger asthma or hives. E 210 is also increasingly discussed in connection with concentration problems and hyperactivity in children.