E 212 Potassium benzoate

What is E 212?

E 212 is the E number of Potassium benzoate. Potassium salt of benzoic acid with the same preservative effect, used for example in drinks and sauces.

What is E 212 used for?

E 212 belongs to the group "Other additives" and is used as preservative.

• Preservative: Preservatives prolong shelf life by protecting food against microorganisms.

Which foods may contain E 212?

According to the European Commission's database, E 212 may be used in 33 food categories and subcategories, each only in specific products and usually with maximum levels. The categories come from these areas:

• Dairy products and analogues
• Fruit and vegetables
• Confectionery
• Meat
• Fish and fisheries products
• Eggs and egg products
• Sugars, syrups, honey and table-top sweeteners
• Salts, spices, soups, sauces, salads and protein products
• Foods for specific groups (infants, young children, special medical purposes)
• Beverages
• Desserts
• Food supplements
• Processed foods not covered by categories 1 to 17

Is E 212 vegan?

Usually yes: the substance is normally made from plant, mineral or synthetic raw materials or with microorganisms. In individual cases, only the manufacturer or a vegan label can give certainty.

Is E 212 linked to genetic engineering?

No typical link to genetic engineering is known for this substance: it is not usually obtained from plants for which GM varieties exist, nor produced by fermentation.

How does E 212 appear on the label?

In the list of ingredients, the substance appears with its function, followed by the E number or the name, for example "Preservative: E 212" or "Preservative: Potassium benzoate".