Sodium Dehydroacetate
Also Known As: Sodium dehydroacetate is commonly referred to as SDHA and is labeled as E266 in food products.
What is it? Sodium dehydroacetate is the sodium salt of dehydroacetic acid. It appears as an odorless, white crystalline powder with the chemical formula $$C_8H_7NaO_4 \cdot H_2O$$ and a molecular weight of 208.15 g/mol. It is known for its preservative properties, effectively inhibiting the growth of microorganisms such as bacteria, yeast, and mold.
What Makes it Different? Unlike dehydroacetic acid, which is insoluble in water, sodium dehydroacetate is easily soluble in water, propylene glycol, and glycerin. This solubility makes it more versatile and easier to use in various applications, particularly in food and cosmetics where water solubility is crucial.
Where Does it Come From? Sodium dehydroacetate is synthesized through a neutralization reaction between dehydroacetic acid and sodium hydroxide. Dehydroacetic acid itself is obtained by polymerizing diketene.
Where is it Used? Sodium dehydroacetate is widely used as a preservative in:
- Food: It is commonly added to bread, pastries, and other baked goods to extend shelf life by preventing microbial growth.
- Cosmetics and Personal Care Products: It helps prevent the growth of microorganisms in lotions, bath products, skincare items, and makeup.
- Pharmaceuticals: It is used to preserve various pharmaceutical formulations.
- Animal Feed: It is used to preserve feed for livestock and poultry.
Is it Sustainable? Sodium dehydroacetate is considered relatively sustainable due to its effectiveness at low concentrations, which reduces the overall amount needed for preservation. However, the sustainability of its production depends on the sourcing and manufacturing processes of its raw materials.
Sustainability Issues Related to Its Production: The production of sodium dehydroacetate involves chemical reactions that may have environmental impacts. The synthesis process requires diketene, which is derived from acetic acid and ketene. The production of these chemicals can involve energy-intensive processes and the use of hazardous substances. Additionally, the disposal of chemical by-products and the potential for pollution during manufacturing are concerns that need to be managed to ensure a more sustainable production process.