jim wrote:
<snip>
> Is sodium benzoate 'health risk free' and easy to get hold of? I
> never saw this in my Wine makers store here in the UK but that sounds
> like an awesome option. I don't know why but I presumed that was a
> chemical you'd find it hard to find for domestic use.
>
> Jim

No it is not risk free, it has been linked to problems in the UK and the
US with carbonated drinks, under certain conditions it can result in the
production of Benzine (highly carcinogenic),it reacts with ascorbic acid
(vitamin C) over time, so anything that is kept for any length of time
or at high temperature is lightly to pose a risk.
I personally would not use it at all.
Ben.

NB see:
http://www.beveragedaily.com/news/ng...ks-fda-benzene
for some more info.