Calcium benzoate

Calcium benzoate (CAS 2090-05-3), also known as calcium dibenzoate or E 213, is the calcium salt of benzoic acid. It is approved as a food preservative under the EU additive designation E 213 and is recognised under the same function in personal care and pharmaceutical applications.

In food and beverage formulations, calcium benzoate inhibits microbial growth by disrupting cell membrane function and interfering with intracellular enzyme activity, making it effective against yeasts, moulds, and certain bacteria. In cosmetic and topical pharmaceutical products, it serves the same antimicrobial mechanism to extend shelf life and maintain product integrity.

Calcium benzoate is available in food-grade and technical-grade forms, with compliance references including E 213 under EU food additive regulations and relevant REACH registration requirements for industrial supply. It is typically supplied in powder form in multi-layer bags or fibre drums, with documentation available to support food, cosmetic, and pharmaceutical procurement.