Sodium benzoate is well  known as a preservative used in processed foods and beverages to extend shelf life, even though it has various different uses.

It’s an odorless, crystalline powder made through combining benzoic acid and sodium hydroxide. Benzoic acid is a correct preservative on its own, and combining it with sodium hydroxide helps it dissolve in  products.

Sodium benzoate is a preservative, with the E variety E211. It is most extensively used in acidic meals such as salad dressings (i.e. acetic acid in vinegar), carbonated drinks (carbonic acid)  it can be used as preservatives, Antibacterial agents in beverage such as in low alcohol (< 15%) beverages, soft drink, fruit juices, non-alcoholic beer, jams and fruit juices (citric acid), pickles (acetic acid), condiments, and frogurt toppings. 

Sodium Benzoate  (E211) is used in baby products, bath products, soaps and detergents, eye makeup, blushers, cleansing products, make up products, as well as hair, nail and skin care products as preservatives in Cosmetics and personal care products.