THE furor over sodium benzoate as a food preservative used in toyo, ketchup and even some skin care products we believe is another one of those black propaganda among competing manufacturers and their products.

Datu Puti products particularly has been the latest “victim” of verbal, written and online canards which claim that the alternative preservative, sodium benzoate, in it is harmful to health.

Come to think of it, if that were an iota true, many would have died by now, considering that the DP vinegar goes well with the “pulutan” and most other food on the table.The fact is no less than the Bureau of Food and Drugs allows use of sodium benzoate as “alternative preservative for food” when used in proper amount.

Datu Puti reps have said all that goes into their product is “katas ng tubo at tubig” and swear they follow the guidelines set by BFAD, which agency itself says the ingredient is safe “so longas it is within standard levels. Read more