مشخصات پژوهش

Benzoic acid is a prevalent preservative in carbonated beverages globally; nonetheless, excessive or inadequately regulated usage may present health hazards and, under some circumstances, result in the generation of benzene, a known carcinogen. In Iran and Iraq—two nations characterized by elevated consumption of carbonated beverages, warm climates that expedite chemical reactions, and insufficient systematic oversight—the risk of benzoic acid concentrations beyond permitted thresholds constitutes a notable yet predominantly unrecorded issue. The lack of integrated oversight between the two markets facilitates the transboundary movement of non-compliant products, heightening consumer exposure concerns. This research will yield the inaugural comparative dataset on benzoic acid concentrations in carbonated beverages in Iran and Iraq, allowing regulators to evaluate compliance, enhance quality control measures, and formulate evidence-based policies to safeguard public health while promoting industry compliance with international food safety standards.