Benzoic allergy is the body’s adverse reaction towards Benzoic acid and Benzoate.
Benzoic acid is a natural compound that is widely used as preservatives against bacteria and fungi. Cranberries are the only natural sources of benzoic acid. Both acid and its sodium salt (Sodium Benzoate) are used as preservatives in fruit juices, pickles, soft drinks and salad dressings. Benzoic acid is more toxic to bacteria than salt benzoate.
Benzoic acid and benzoates are considered absolutely safe for human consumption, provided they are in limits. In the United States, the safety limit of Benzoic acid in food is standardized to 0.1%, whereas in other countries it is as high as 1.25%. Artificial flavors, perfumes and tobacco flavoring are the other applications of benzoic acid.
In this context benzoic acid allergy is same as food allergy. Thus the symptoms are same as food allergy symptoms. Here are the symptoms that are commonly seen in benzoic acid allergy:
Gastrointestinal Symptoms:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Stomach cramps
- Abdominal pain
Other Symptoms:
- Angioedema: Swelling of soft tissues involving lips, eyelids, face and tongue.
- Difficulty in breathing
- Hives
- Itching of Skin
- Itching of throat, eyes and mouth
- Nasal congestion
- Scratchy throat
- Difficulty swallowing
- Wheezing
- Hypertension
- Anaphylaxis occurs in severe allergic reaction.
Prevention or cure: In any food allergy it is obvious that one should NOT take allergy causing food to avoid allergic reaction. Accordingly to manufacturing standards, foods are labeled appropriately to facilitate this. In case of benzoic acid, the number is labeled as E210-215 or the name is written over the product. All foods containing benzoic acid should be avoided, especially cranberries. Epinephrine injections are given to cure the reaction that occurs by accidental ingestion.
