Food Standards Agency
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Listen to this siteWednesday 30 November 2005
Food Survey Information Sheet 84/05
Benzoates (E210-213) and sorbates (E200, E202-203) are used as preservatives in various foodstuffs. A survey of their use in soft drinks has been conducted to determine the actual usage levels of these additives in drinks and to ensure manufacturers are complying with legislation.
The samples consisted of concentrates (squashes), carbonated drinks and ready-to-drink still drinks.
Out of 300 soft drinks sampled, four (1%) contained levels of benzoic acid in excess of the maximum permitted limit of 150 mg/l. The levels found in these four samples were not a concern for consumer health, but there is a need to ensure compliance with additive legislation.
For the four drinks with levels of benzoic acid above statutory limits, manufacturers have taken steps to avoid reoccurrence of these problems. The Food Standards Agency is working with local authorities to ensure that the law on these additives is fully observed. Local enforcement authorities have been informed of the results from this survey and have confirmed that they are happy with the action taken by the drink manufacturers to resolve these issues.
Four other drinks (1%) contained levels of sorbic acid likely to have a technological function, but which were not declared on the ingredients label. For these products either the brand owners have addressed these problems or the products are no longer on sale.
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