Sodium Benzoate is a widely used preservative in the food, beverage, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic industries. It is the sodium salt of benzoic acid and is especially effective in acidic environments, where it helps inhibit the growth of bacteria, yeast, and molds.

In the food industry, it is commonly added to products such as fruit juices, carbonated drinks, pickles, sauces, jams, and salad dressings to extend shelf life. It is also used in personal care products like mouthwashes, shampoos, and lotions, and in pharmaceuticals as a preservative in oral medications and syrups.