Sodium Benzoate, with the chemical formula C₇H₅NaO₂, is the sodium salt of benzoic acid. It appears as a white, crystalline powder that is highly soluble in water, making it a widely-used preservative in various industries. Sodium Benzoate is primarily recognized for its role as a food preservative due to its ability to inhibit the growth of mold, yeast, and certain bacteria, thereby extending the shelf life of products.