Eat or Avoid
E237

Sodium Formate

Also known as: Sodium Methanoate

Acidity RegulatorsPreservatives

Safety rating

Avoid

Eat Away!Generally SafeUse SparinglyAvoid
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Purpose and Function

Sodium Formate is a preservative and acidity regulator historically considered for pickled products and animal feed preservation, though its direct-food use is rare due to safety concerns.

Commonly found in

  • Animal feed preservation (not typically direct human food)

Key functions

  • Formerly considered as a microbial-growth inhibitor and acidity regulator

Potential Risks and Side Effects

  1. 01Can be harmful if consumed in large quantities — primarily used in industrial applications
  2. 02May cause skin, eye, or respiratory irritation on significant exposure
  3. 03Banned as a food additive in the European Union and many other regions due to safety concerns

References

    Related Additives