Benzoic acid and its sodium and potassium salts have been extensively used for many years as a preservative to control microbial growth, for instance of yeast, bacteria, mold and fungi, in various applications.

The products are FDA-approved and GRAS classified. The salts are more soluble in water than benzoic acid and are preferred as preservatives for use in water-based systems. In solution the benzoate is in a dynamic, pH dependent equilibrium with the undissociated acid molecule.

An acid pH favors the undissociated uncharged state, a situation in which benzoic acid exerts much stronger anti-microbial action.

Since benzoic acid is very active in controlling yeast growth, the new Food/Pharma grade is very effective in controlling microbial growth in non-yeast-raised bakery products, like flour tortillas, pancakes and pizzas.

The improved taste and odor in combination with cost savings means that the Benzoic Acid USP Grade can replace propionics, sorbates and fumarics.

Food manufacturers increasingly use hot pack processing as an alternative to canning. One of the most important aspects of this process is that the pH of the product is to be kept below 4.5.

While many foods are naturally high in acid (especially tomatoes and fruits), there are also cases in which help is needed to reduce the pH to an acceptable level.

Ultra pure benzoic acid, if desired in combination with other acids, is an effective preservative in the hot packing process as well as in the classical canning process.

Benzoic acid is used as a pH adjustor and/or preservative in cosmetic and toiletry formulations.

Since most of these personal care products contain natural components (fats, oils, etc), they are very sensitive to microbial degradation. In 1998 benzoic acid was used as an ingredient in more than 200 cosmetic formulations.

The most important of these are bath preparations, lipsticks, skin cleaners and skin conditioners. Fish and ¬fish products are very sensitive to microbial contamination and need a very active preservative.

Pure Benzoic Acid USP grade is used as an active ingredient in preservation formulations for shrimps.