Does anyone know of any scientific evidence regarding sodium benzoate and hummingbird health?

[MNBrewer]

I make my own sugar solution for my feeder, and would LIKE to add some sodium benzoate, but don't know if it would harm the birds.

I've searched online but can't find any science-based recommendations.

Thanks

[NYC_SKP]

1. Why add that?

Also, would honey or cane syrup be better than common sugar?

[MNBrewer]

2. Absolutely NOT honey

http://www.allaboutbirds.org/Page.aspx?pid=1181

Cane syrup is sucrose, so is table sugar. Same compound.

Adding the sodium benzoate would inhibit yeasts, molds and bacteria from growing in the sugar solution, thereby extending its "shelf life" in the feeder.

[Curmudgeoness]

3. I have no scientific evidence, but

I would not do it. Do you have reason to add it?

Since you are supposed to replace the sugar water frequently, you should not have the need for a preservative. However, since sodium benzoate is used in most commercial hummer foods, I would not think that it is dangerous for them. I just don't believe in adding anything more than is necessary to foods---for us or for animals.

[MNBrewer]

4. The reason would be to extend the life of the sugar solution

And make it so that it doesn't have to be replaced as frequently. I know that red dye can cause problems for hummingbirds, based on information at allaboutbirds.org, and so don't use it. They say nothing about preservatives.

[Curmudgeoness]

5. I always changed the solution every 2-3 days

and never had a problem. To avoid waste, I would only put a little solution in the feeder at a time unless I noticed that it was being used up quicker. I stored the fresh solution in the refrigerator until it was used, and I washed the feeder out with boiling water each time I refilled it.