Description

Benzoic acid is a white solid with the formula C₆H₅CO₂H.

It is the simplest aromatic carboxylic acid.

The name is derived from gum benzoin, which was for a long time its only source.

Benzoic acid occurs naturally in many plants and serves as an intermediate in the biosynthesis of many secondary metabolites

Benzoic Acid-Uses

• Benzoic acid (BA) is a commonly used antimicrobial preservative in food and beverages, especially in carbonated beverages
• As it presents its strongest antibacterial activity at pH 2.5–4.0.
• BA has inhibitory effects on the proliferation of bacteria and yeasts, a major cause of food spoilage.
• Benzoic acid and salicylic acid topical (for the skin) is a combination medicine used to treat skin irritation and inflammation caused by burn