sodium benzoate

noun

: a crystalline or granular salt C7H5O2Na used chiefly as a food preservative

Examples of sodium benzoate in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Ingredients like parabens, sodium benzoate, propylene glycol, fragrances, and certain dyes like black iron oxide can all contribute to eye and skin irritation or contact dermatitis. Nicola Dall'asen, Allure, 4 Jan. 2025 That’s because more expensive soy sauces typically lack the preservative, sodium benzoate, that more common grocery-store soy sauces use to extend shelf life. Sam Stone, Bon Appétit, 26 Mar. 2024 While the risk-reward relationship of parabens is still largely unclear, more and more brands are cutting them from their products and replacing them with alternatives like sodium benzoate and potassium sorbate. Grooming Playbook, The Salt Lake Tribune, 4 Oct. 2022

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1900, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of sodium benzoate was circa 1900

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Cite this Entry

“Sodium benzoate.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/sodium%20benzoate. Accessed 6 Jul. 2026.

Medical Definition

sodium benzoate

noun
: a crystalline or granular salt C7H5O2Na used chiefly as a food preservative

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