Related Molecules
Sodium benzoate is often used in conjunction with other preservatives. In particular sorbates are used along side it.
Sorbates are not unlike benzoates, in that they stem from sorbic acid, and many salts can be found including potassium sorbate, calcium sorbate and sodium sorbate.
Potassium sorbate (E202) is another white, crystalline powder, that is low cost and is used in many different products including sour cream, bread, cakes, icings, and especially alongside sodium benzoate in drinks, margarines and dressings. It is used in similar amounts to sodium benzoate i.e. 0.025 - 0.1% and again the maximum permitted level is 0.1%.
Sorbates and benzoates are used together in so many things because of the better defense against microorganisms two preservatives offer opposed to one.
Enzymatic action and browning can also be deterred by the addition of sulfur dioxide.
Taken from: www.apacchemical.com/ Sorbates.htm