top of page

Food facts

sodium-benzoate-1296x728-feature.jpg_w=1155&h=1528.jpg
Sodium Benzoate

Have you ever wondered…

How can a bottle of juice sitting on the shelf, stay fresh, stay mold-free for so long?  One reason is because of something called sodium benzoate.

​

What it does?

Sodium benzoate is a preservative.  A preservative is something that helps food and drink stay fresh longer by helping to prevent the growth of mold, bacteria, and yeast -all of these can make you sick.

Where we can find it?

We see sodium benzoate in:

  • Beverages (soft drinks, fruit juices)

  • Foods (processed, packaged foods)

  • Sauces

​

Is it safe?

According to food scientists, small amounts of sodium benzoate are considered safe. However, when used with vitamin C, and exposed to heat or light, it may form benzene, something that can potentially cause cancer.

Caffine1.width-1524.webp
Caffeine

Have you ever wondered?

Why some people drink coffee when they wake up, or when they are feeling sleepy but need to stay awake?  One reason is because of something called caffeine.

​

What it does?

Caffeine is a natural stimulant.  This means that it helps our bodies and brain feel more awake and can increase our alertness and concentration.

Where you can find it?

Caffeine can be found in lots of places, including:

  • Beverages (coffee, tea, energy drinks, soda)

  • Chocolate

​

Is it safe?

Many people consume caffeine every day and small amounts of caffeine are considered safe. But, if we have too much caffeine, this can make us feel anxious, increase our heart rate and make it hard to sleep.  This can be very bad for our bodies.

​

Did you know?

That one can of energy drink can contain as much as 4x the caffeine as a cup of coffee? This is why checking labels is a really good thing to do.

Practical Ways to Start the Conversation

Empowering students to talk about health with friends and family using simple, positive language.

At School Lunch

"Did you know these colorful vegetables help our brains focus better for the next class? Let's see how many colors we have on our plates today!"

At the Grocery Store

"Look! This snack package says 'Whole Grain.' That means it gives us longer-lasting energy for playing outside. Can we get this one?"

With Friends

"I started checking the labels for hidden sugar. It's like a detective game! This drink has so much, maybe we can try the natural juice instead?"

bottom of page