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Most of the food we buy daily in supermarkets contains a wide variety of preservatives. Their main goal is to suppress the development of various kinds of microorganisms. They are the very reason why any product sooner or later begins to deteriorate.
In total, there are 38 preservatives allocated to group E. They have their own names and properties. Each of them is able to prevent the development of any one microbe. They are found in very small amounts in food. The highest value reaches approximately 0,5% of the total mass of products, therefore several preservatives are often found in products at once.
Calcium Benzoate – Description
Calcium benzoate, which is labeled E213, is produced synthetically. The equally popular preservative E210, benzoic acid, is chosen as a raw material for its manufacture. Finished products may be in the form of powder or crystals of an exceptionally pure white color. The main danger of this substance is considered to be an adverse carcinogenic effect on human health. In connection with such a negative influence, it is prohibited to use it almost all over the world. Limited use is permitted in certain countries of the European Union, Canada and the United States.
The active component E213 is extracted from the waste of the oil refining industry. The advantage of using this substance in food products is associated with an extension of their shelf life, an increase in storage time.
The main effect is on microorganisms such as fungi, yeast and mold. It is made by exposing previously obtained benzoic acid to various reagents. To obtain the preservative calcium benzoate, it is necessary to use a carbonate or hydroxide of a similar component.
According to the available official information, described in interstate standards, E213 has a similar effect to potassium and sodium benzoate. In fact, it is a salt of benzoic acid.
The main difference is that the substance can be easily dissolved in water. However, when choosing the best option, it is recommended to choose one that will completely connect with the liquid when it is heated to a temperature of 100 degrees Celsius.
Application of a preservative
Calcium benzoate, as can be understood from the description, is an excellent preservative. It is used in a wide variety of food products in the European Union, the United States of America and New Zealand.
In the Russian Federation, it can be found in combination with benzoic acid, sodium and / or potassium benzoate. It is a food additive approved for use. It has a fungicidal and antimicrobial effect on food.
Among the foods in which E213 can be found are:
- almost all juices and soft drinks;
- various purees and sauces, with the exception of those containing dairy ingredients;
- chewing gum;
- a fish;
- ice cream.
The effect of food additives on humans
Despite all the evidence that science has provided, calcium benzoate is still used in the manufacture of various foods. You can meet a food additive both in foreign products and in domestic ones. Doctors advise limiting the amount of E213 consumed in food as much as possible. If it is not possible to completely avoid consumption, it is recommended to limit it. Doctors were able to calculate the conditionally safe amount of a substance that an adult can eat per day.
For example, even carbonated table mineral water will contain E213. Therefore, it is recommended that expectant mothers refuse it, and in no case should it be included in the process of feeding children. Active substances – preservatives – can have an adverse effect on the development of the child.
Despite the stronger resistance and protection of the immune system of the adult body, the amount of calcium benzoate consumed by them should also be limited.
The human body is particularly adversely affected by E213 in the stomach and intestines. Here, the substance begins to interact at the chemical level with the amino acid, the mediator of which is coenzyme A. As a result of this connection, hippuric acid is formed.
It is excreted from the body naturally – through the kidneys. In many cases, this action has a toxic effect on these internal organs. Therefore, when ingested by animals, they die.
An adult is allowed to use this substance no more than 5 mg per day. In such an amount, the food additive-preservative practically does not harm the body.
Among the most common consequences of the negative effects of E213 on a person, an asthmatic attack, urticaria or other allergic reactions stand out, which also leads to the formation of eczema.
Hyperactivity is especially dangerous. It is especially unfavorable in children. Their general excitability increases and at the same time the level of attention decreases.
Many, especially modern medical studies, indicate a carcinogenic effect. It is from the use of calcium benzoate in food that the risk of the formation of malignant tumors increases significantly. Particularly susceptible are those people who have a hereditary predisposition to cancer.
Helpful information
Calcium benzoate is produced in accordance with the special interstate standard GOST 33268-2015. In some countries, where specific regulations may apply, the use and/or manufacture of the substance is regulated by the appropriate authorities.
Finished products for storage or transportation should be packed in a special container. These can be bags made of paper, bag fabric, corrugated cardboard, polyethylene.
The type and parameters of the selected container may vary depending on the needs of the manufacturer.
Transportation over long distances is carried out by any means of transport. The only condition is its closeness, so that the finished product is not affected by external factors – moisture, sunlight, heat, etc. Transportation is carried out in accordance with the standards that apply in the territory of a particular country.
Calcium benzoate is stored exclusively in a dry place where artificial or natural heating is carried out.
The temperature here should not fall below +10 degrees Celsius and exceed more than +30 degrees. Bags containing E213 must not be stored on the floor.
For their storage use wooden shelves or pallets. The permissible parameter for indoor humidity is 70%, which should not be exceeded.
The manufacturer, according to the standards, can himself establish the shelf life of calcium benzoate produced at his enterprises.