Potassium Benzoate
Other names E212, E 212
Potassium Benzoate: high in histamine and salicylate. If you're sensitive to any of these, check it against your profile before eating.
Intolerances
- Histamine (+liberators / DAO inhibitors)High
Potassium benzoate (E212) is the same preservative with potassium in place of sodium, chosen where the sodium figure on the nutrition panel matters. Identical standing here: a liberator, part of the pseudoallergen group, with the same double-blind caveat. The Swiss list rates it 2 of 3 and marks it L, its letter for liberators of mast cell mediators — a presumed reason rather than a measurement.
Sources· 4
- Zuberbier et al., EAACI/GA2LEN/EDF/WAO urticaria guideline
- Maintz & Novak, Am J Clin Nutr 2007
- EFSA re-evaluation of benzoates, 2016
- SIGHI — Swiss Interest Group Histamine Intolerance, food-compatibility list (2024-08-29), for the L classification and the compatibility rating
- SalicylateHigh
Potassium benzoate is the same preservative as sodium benzoate with a different salt, and it carries the same cross-reactivity for salicylate-sensitive people. Common in sugar-free drinks.
Sources· 1
- Baenkler H-W., Dtsch Arztebl Int 105:8 (2008) 137-142, salicylate intolerance - mechanism, clinical spectrum, diagnosis and treatment
- TyramineNone
- SucroseNone
- FODMAPsNone
- LactoseFODMAPsNone
- OligosaccharidesFODMAPsNone
- SorbitolFODMAPsNone
- FructoseFODMAPsNone
- NickelNone
- OxalatesNone
- GlutenNo
Intolerance levels are based on our documented scientific sources. See sources →
React to Histamine (+liberators / DAO inhibitors)? Check these too
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Frequently asked questions
Which intolerances does Potassium Benzoate affect?
Potassium Benzoate is notable for histamine and salicylate. Clear on tyramine, sucrose, FODMAPs, lactose, oligosaccharides, sorbitol, fructose, nickel, oxalates and gluten.
Does Potassium Benzoate contain histamine?
Yes — Potassium Benzoate is high in histamine. Potassium benzoate (E212) is the same preservative with potassium in place of sodium, chosen where the sodium figure on the nutrition panel matters. Identical standing here: a liberator, part of the pseudoallergen group, with the same double-blind caveat. The Swiss list rates it 2 of 3 and marks it L, its letter for liberators of mast cell mediators — a presumed reason rather than a measurement.
Does Potassium Benzoate contain salicylate?
Yes — Potassium Benzoate is high in salicylate. Potassium benzoate is the same preservative as sodium benzoate with a different salt, and it carries the same cross-reactivity for salicylate-sensitive people. Common in sugar-free drinks. Amounts vary by brand and recipe, so always check the label of the exact product.
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