E212E214

E212E214 refers to a chemical compound or a mixture of compounds used as a food additive. Specifically, E212 denotes potassium benzoate and E214 denotes ethyl p-hydroxybenzoate. When presented together as E212E214, it suggests a combination of these two preservatives. Potassium benzoate is a salt of benzoic acid and is primarily used to inhibit the growth of mold, yeast, and some bacteria in acidic foods. Ethyl p-hydroxybenzoate, also known as ethylparaben, is a paraben compound and functions as an antimicrobial preservative, effective against bacteria and fungi. This combination is typically employed to extend the shelf life of various food products, including beverages, jams, jellies, and baked goods. The use of E numbers, such as E212 and E214, is a labeling system used in the European Union and other regions to identify food additives. Regulatory bodies assess the safety of these additives before approving their use and often set maximum permissible levels in different food categories. The effectiveness of E212E214 relies on its ability to create an environment unfavorable for microbial spoilage, thereby preserving the quality and safety of the food item.