Sodium benzoate is the sodium salt of benzoic acid with the chemical formula C6H5COONa. It is a white crystalline powder that is widely used as a food preservative due to its antimicrobial properties, particularly effective against bacteria, yeasts, and molds in acidic environments (pH < 4.5). It is commonly added to carbonated beverages, fruit juices, pickles, and condiments. Sodium benzoate is produced by neutralizing benzoic acid with sodium hydroxide. In the body, it is metabolized to hippuric acid and excreted in urine. It is recognized as generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA when used within specified limits.