Cytogenotoxicity of food preservatives in mammalian cells: A systematic review

This systematic review investigates the cytogenotoxicity of various food preservatives in mammalian cells, including sodium benzoate and potassium sorbate, through a comprehensive analysis of studies retrieved from PubMed, SCOPUS, and Web of Science. An orderly search conducted in March 2025 identified 19 relevant studies (from an initial 594), which employed assays, such as the micronucleus test and the comet assay to assess DNA damage, and MTT assay and polychromatic/normochromatic erythrocytes (PCE/NCE) ratio for evaluating cytotoxicity. Among these, 13 studies (68 %) reported genotoxic effects, with sodium benzoate being the most frequently associated with micronucleus formation and chromosomal abnormalities. Additionally, 12 studies (63 %) described cytotoxic effects, evidenced by decreased cell viability, altered proliferation indices, or nuclear alterations. As for the quality assessment, 18 studies (out of 19) were categorized as strong (n = 15) or moderate (n = 3) and, therefore, we consider our findings to be trustworthy. In summary, the consistent association between exposure to food preservatives and cytogenotoxic outcomes highlights the importance of monitoring such compounds and establishing clearer safety thresholds to protect human health. Certainly, these findings are important for clarifying the role of biomarkers related to cytogenotoxicity due to food preservative consumption in humans.