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Sodium Benzoate

A preservative that keeps things fresh.

What it does

Stops bacteria, mold and yeast from growing, so the product stays safe to use for longer.

Good to know

The EU limits it to 2.5% in rinse-off products, 1.7% in oral care and 0.5% in leave-on products (measured as benzoic acid).

Often found in: Shower gels, Shampoos, Anti-dandruff shampoos

Around the world

• United States: No FDA limit. The FDA doesn't approve cosmetic ingredients before sale. Source
• EU and UK: As a preservative: up to 2.5% in rinse-off, 1.7% in oral care and 0.5% in leave-on products (as benzoic acid). Source
• Canada: Not on Health Canada's Hotlist of restricted ingredients. Source
• Australia: No limit in Australia's Poisons Standard. Source

Sources

• EFSA: Re-evaluation of benzoic acid and its salts as food additives (2016) (Independent)
• CIR: Safety Assessment of Benzyl Alcohol, Benzoic Acid and its Salts, and Benzyl Benzoate (2017) (Industry-funded)