Indications of the possible formation of benzene from benzoic acid in foods

Benzene is an environmental pollutant which consumers mainly ingest via respiratory air. It can also occur as contamination in drinking water and foods. Benzene is principally emitted from petrol through exhaust gases. The substance is carcinogenic and damages germ cells. The available data do not allow the establishment of a safe level of exposure. Like all carcinogenic substances for which no toxicological threshold value can be indicated, benzene intake should be minimised and/or avoided as far as possible in line with preventive consumer protection.

There is a suspicion that small amounts of benzene may be formed from benzoic acid in non-alcoholic beverages in the presence of ascorbic acid. Benzoic acid and ascorbic acid are food additives which must be declared on the food. Benzoic acid or E 210 is a preservative which also occurs naturally, for instance, in cranberries. A maximum amount of 150 mg/l benzoic acid may be added to non-alcoholic flavoured beverages (except milk-based beverages). No maximum amount has been defined for ascorbic acid (E 300). In accordance with good manufacturing practice, only the amount may, however, be used which is necessary to achieve the desired effect ("quantum satis"). Ascorbic acid occurs as a natural substance (vitamin C), for instance, in many berries and fruit. 

The Institute has recommended asking the food control authorities of the different federal states to compile available data on benzene content as well as on the content of benzoic acid and ascorbic acid in beverages and other foods. This is currently being done.