SODIUM BENZOATE is graded C (Moderate) by Expert·ING, based on COSING, FDA regulatory data. It is restricted under EU COSING (Restricted use).
SODIUM BENZOATE
Safety grade: C
Sodium benzoate is a preservative commonly used in foods and cosmetics to prevent the growth of bacteria, fungi, and molds. It helps keep products fresh and safe to use for longer periods.
This ingredient preserves cosmetic products by inhibiting microbial growth, prevents corrosion of product containers, and can help mask unpleasant odors in formulations.
Graded using: COSING, FDA.
- EU COSING — Restricted use
Last verified: June 7, 2026
Safer alternatives to SODIUM BENZOATE
- POTASSIUM SORBATE — Grade B. Preservative that inhibits microbial growth, direct functional equivalent.
- SORBIC ACID — Grade B. Preservative that inhibits microbial growth, direct functional equivalent.
- DISODIUM PYROPHOSPHATE — Grade A. Prevents corrosion of containers through chelating and buffering action.
Other Preservative ingredients
- PHENOXYETHANOL — Grade B**
- BENZYL ALCOHOL — Grade C**
- BENZOIC ACID — Grade C**
- METHYLISOTHIAZOLINONE — Grade C
- METHYLPARABEN — Grade C
- SALICYLIC ACID — Grade C**
- METHYLCHLOROISOTHIAZOLINONE — Grade C