C6H5COONa

C6H5COONa, also known as sodium benzoate, is a chemical compound with the formula C6H5COONa. It is a white, crystalline powder that is soluble in water and commonly used as a food preservative. Sodium benzoate is the sodium salt of benzoic acid, a weak organic acid. It is widely used in the food industry due to its antimicrobial properties, which help prevent the growth of bacteria, yeast, and mold in various food products. It is particularly effective against gram-positive bacteria and fungi. Sodium benzoate is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and is approved for use in many countries for food preservation. However, it is important to note that excessive consumption of sodium benzoate can have adverse health effects, including allergic reactions and potential interactions with certain medications. Therefore, its use is regulated to ensure consumer safety.