Brine is used for flavoring corned beef, pickles and sauerkraut, as well as vegetables and condiments. Disodium phosphate is used in some quick-cooking cereals and processed cheeses and in meat to retain liquids. Monosodium is used as a tenderizer and flavor enhanced used in cooking and preserving foods. Sodium alginate is used in many chocolate drinks and ice creams for smooth texture. Sodium ascorbate is used as a preservative.
Sodium benzoate is used as a preservative in many condiments, such as relishes and salad dressings.
Sodium citrate is used as a flavoring. Sodium cycalmate and sodium saccharin are used in some low-calorie soft drinks and desserts. Sodium hydroxide is used in food processing to soften and loosen skins of ripe olives, hominy and certain fruits and vegetables. Sodium nitrite and sodium nitrate is used to cure meats and sausages. Sodium propionate is used in pasteurized cheeses and in some breads and cakes to inhibit the growth of mold.