Potassium benzoate is a type of food preservative that is added to certain foods to prevent spoilage. Food preservatives are sometimes necessary to keep food stable for transport. Potassium benzoate is added to foods to protect against destruction from bacteria or fungus; adding it as a preservative stops the growth of certain microorganisms, keeping food fresh and edible.
Drinks
Potassium benzoate is found among many beverages, particularly those that have a higher level of acidity. Some diet soft drinks contain potassium benzoate, such as Diet Coke, Diet Pepsi and Diet RC. Other types of drinks that also contain the preservative include apple cider and fruit juices, as it adds a small amount of tangy aftertaste.
Sweets
To prevent spoilage, manufacturers add potassium benzoate to sweets early in the preparation process to avoid growth of microorganisms. Sweets that have been canned and preserved such as jams, jellies, and fruit preserves, frequently contain potassium benzoate. Other types of sweets, such as fruit salads and pie fillings also contain the preservative.
Canned Foods
According to Emerald Performance Materials, a food chemical manufacturer, potassium benzoate is similar in structure to another preservative called sodium benzoate. Manufacturers may add potassium benzoate to foods to stabilize the amount of sodium, particularly in situations where low sodium content is required. Potassium benzoate is added to canned foods such as olives, vegetable sauces, pickle relish, salted margarine, low-fat salad dressing and other canned vegetables.
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