Sodium benzoate is a widely used food preservative that helps to inhibit the growth of bacteria, yeast, and fungi. Its chemical formula is C7H5NaO2, which indicates that it is the sodium salt of benzoic acid. This compound is highly effective in acidic environments, making it particularly suitable for acidic foods and beverages.
When it comes to solubility, sodium benzoate is quite soluble in water. At room temperature, it can dissolve significantly, allowing it to be easily integrated into various food products. This solubility is crucial because it ensures that sodium benzoate can evenly disperse throughout the food, providing consistent preservation without altering the food’s taste or quality. In warm water, its solubility increases further, which is beneficial during food processing where heating may occur.